Differences Between Oxycodone and Oxycontin

Oxycodone and Oxycontin are two drugs derived from the highly addictive narcotic drug opium. Both medications are commonly used to relieve moderate to severe pain and can be used in a variety of situations such as after a back injury. There are several differences between the two medications.

How the Medication Works

• Oxycodone in its ordinary form is a fast-acting pain reliever that is used to treat breakthrough pain--that is, pain so severe the sufferer needs immediate relief. Oxycodone affects the way the receptors in the brain experience pain. Oxycontin is Oxycodone mixed with various other substances to provide a sustained release of the pain reliever to keep the patient comfortable throughout the day and night.

Duration of Effect

• Oxycodone's pain-relieving effects last about 4 to 6 hours. Oxycontin should give pain relief for about 12 hours.

Formulary

• Oxycodone is the pure form of the medication and is used by itself for fast-acting pain relief. Oxycontin is derived from Oxycodone and is mixed with other ingredients to create the sustained release effect.

When to Take the Medication

• Oxycodone is to be taken as needed to give relief if the patient is experiencing pain. Oxcontin should be taken on schedule once every 12 hours according to the doctor's instructions. Neither drug should be taken long term because they are both highly addictive.

Side Effects

• Both medications are highly addictive but Oxycodone is more addictive and should never be taken with alcohol or in any dose exceeding the one prescribed by your doctor. Serious side effects such as dizziness, fainting, slow or rapid heartbeats and breathing problems can occur. Oxycontin side effects can also include irregular heartbeat.

  Neither drug should be taken in combination with any other medication containing opium-derived ingredients, such as codeine in cough syrup, due to the risk of overdose. Overdose side effects can include death.