Oxycodone hcl

Oxycodone HCl is a potent opioid analgesic medication synthesized from thebaine, an opioid alkaloid found in the Persian poppy, and one of the many alkaloids found in the opium poppy. It is a moderately potent opioid pain medication (orally roughly 1.5 times more potent than morphine) used for the relief of moderate to severe pain. Oxycodone was developed in 1916 in Germany as one of several semi-synthetic opioids in an attempt to improve on the existing opioids.

Medical Uses

Oxycodone HCl is used to manage moderate to severe pain when a continuous, around-the-clock opioid analgesic is needed for an extended period of time. It is not intended for the relief of acute pain. The medication comes in various forms, including tablet, capsule, and liquid, to be taken orally. Extended-release formulations are also available for chronic pain management.

Pharmacology

Oxycodone works by binding to the mu-opioid receptor found in the brain and spinal cord, mimicking the effects of endogenous opioids. Its analgesic effects are due to both its binding to the mu-opioid receptor and its action as a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, although its effect in the latter capacity is much weaker than its opioid effect. Oxycodone's efficacy as a pain reliever derives from its ability to alter the perception of and response to pain.

Side Effects

Common side effects of oxycodone include nausea, vomiting, constipation, drowsiness, dizziness, itching, dry mouth, and sweating. More severe side effects may include addiction, respiratory depression, and hypotension. Due to its potential for abuse and addiction, oxycodone is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States.

Chemistry

Oxycodone HCl is a semi-synthetic opioid derived from thebaine. It is a white, odorless, crystalline powder soluble in water. Its chemical name is 4,5-epoxy-14-hydroxy-3-methoxy-17-methylmorphinan-6-one hydrochloride.

History

First synthesized in 1916 in Germany, oxycodone was developed as part of efforts to find non-addictive alternatives to morphine. However, it was eventually discovered to have addictive properties similar to other opioids. Oxycodone was introduced to the US market in 1939.

Regulation

Due to its high potential for abuse and addiction, oxycodone is regulated under the Controlled Substances Act in the United States and by similar regulatory bodies worldwide. Prescriptions are closely monitored to prevent misuse and diversion.

See Also

• Opioid epidemic
• Pain management
• Morphine
• Thebaine