OxyContin ER

OxyContin ER is an extended-release formulation of oxycodone hydrochloride, a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic developed by Purdue Pharma. It acts as a full opioid agonist with a primary affinity for the mu-opioid receptor. By binding to these receptors in the central nervous system, it inhibits ascending pain pathways and alters the perception of and response to pain. The drug is specifically indicated for the management of pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate, such as chronic cancer pain or severe non-malignant pain. Its formulation allows for a 12-hour dosing interval, providing steady-state plasma concentrations compared to immediate-release alternatives. In 2010, the formulation was updated to include abuse-deterrent properties intended to make the tablets more difficult to manipulate for misuse via injection or snorting.

Brand names

OxyContinOxyContin ER

Other names

oxycodone hydrochloride extended-releaseoxycodone HCl ER