Is Oxycodone A Narcotic?

Published on March 25, 2019

With the rising opioid epidemic, many people are becoming more interested in understanding the drugs they are taking. A popular pain medication and opiate used in the treatment of moderate to severe pain is oxycodone.

Oxycodone is similar to other opioids like morphine and codeine. This drug works by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain and increasing a person’s tolerance to pain. It can also result in depressed breathing and sedation.

This drug is often reserved for more severe pain or pain that needs to be managed around-the-clock. When used for a short period of time as directed, oxycodone is safe and will likely not be habit forming. However, using this drug for a long period of time or taking more than prescribed can lead to dependence and addiction.

Is Oxycontin, like Heroin, Fentanyl, Codeine, and Others, a Narcotic? Understanding Narcotics

Opioids like oxycodone can be categorized as narcotics. The definition of narcotic is typically described as medication that elicits narcosis or insensibility.

While technically a narcotic, oxycodone and other opioids are not generally called this in a medical setting. This is due to the negative connotations associated with the term narcotic.

Oxycodone Drug Misuse, Dependence, And Addiction

Due to its effects on the brain, oxycodone has a high potential for abuse and addiction like other opioids. People who are prescribed the quicker release versions of the drug tend to experience physical dependence more rapidly than those taking the extended version (Oxycontin).

However, both forms of the drug are widely abused. In fact, the high content of oxycodone that’s found in Oxycontin makes it an attractive drug of abuse on the street. People who misuse this drug may crush it, snort it, or inject it.

Abusing oxycodone can produce an intense high and feelings of euphoria. Many have reported experiencing a similar high to what is experienced with heroin.

The more a person abuses oxycodone, the higher the risk for physical dependence and addiction. Addiction to opioids like oxycodone can be dangerous and put people at risk for serious side effects and overdose.

Treatment For Oxycodone Addiction and Other Controlled Substances

If you or a loved one is struggling with oxycodone addiction, know that there are a number of treatment options available. Many people find success with formal treatment programs.

A formal treatment plan may include a medically supervised detox program as well as inpatient treatment. Inpatient treatment programs have proven highly successful in helping individuals overcome oxycodone addiction.

To learn more about whether oxycodone is a narcotic and treatment programs available for overcoming opioid addiction, contact us today.