Photo of student group with counselor
Back to Alcohol and Other Drugs page

Slang Terms:
Killers, “OC”,“OXY”, Oxy 80, Oxies, Oyxcotton, Oxycoffins, Oceans, Hillbilly Heroin

Short Term Effects:
· Constipation
· Headaches
· Nausea
· Dry Mouth
· Sedation
· Sweating
· Dizziness
· Tiredness
· Vomiting
· Weakness

Long Term Effects:
· Increased tolerance
· Addiction
· Other long term effects of OxyContin
  are currently unknown, however
  research is being done to determine
  these effects

OxyContin
oxycodone


Form

OxyContin is usually found in tablet form. When abused, the tablet is crushed, snorted, chewed, or mixed with water and injected to eliminate the time-release factor allowing for a fast, intense rush to the brain.

When and Why it is Used

OxyContin is abused for its opiate-like effects. Sometimes seen as a “white-collar” drug, its abuse has increased among all ethnic and economic groups. Every age group has been affected by the easy availability and perceived safety of the drug by professionals.

Other Facts

Taking broken, chewed, or crushed tablets could lead to the release and absorption of a toxic dose of OxyContin.

The most serious risk associated with opioids is respiratory depression.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) reports that more than 400 deaths have been linked to the painkiller OxyContin.

Oxycontin is a Schedule II Drug under the Controlled Substances Act.