These days, due to the recent opioid crisis, there’s been an added importance on understanding what pills people take. One of the more common painkillers tends to be Oxycontin. While these pills can be helpful, they can also be dangerous…
Oxycontin: Prescription Uses & Dangers
The brief history
Compared to other drugs, Oxycontin has a pretty modern history. Back in 1916 the opioid oxycodone was invented in Germany. Ironically enough, the goal of this drug was to be a less addictive option than say morphine or heroin. Eventually, it would make its way to the United States in 1939.
However, it was never really all that popular. In fact, it wouldn’t be until 1996, when Oxycontin itself would hit the scene, that it took off. Very quickly, it rose up in popularity. By 2001, it would become the best-selling painkiller in the country. It wouldn’t be until much later when people realized the dangers these drugs had.
How it’s different
So what exactly is it about Oxycontin that made it so popular? Mainly, it comes down to how it works. For instance, oxycodone is an instant-release drug. That means as soon as you take it, the drug will begin to take effect. Therefore, while it starts to work faster, it also wears off sooner.
By comparison, Oxycontin is an extended-release drug. That means it will slowly release into the body once you take it. This causes a longer-lasting feeling of pain relief. Other than that, both of these drugs work the same sort of way.
Risks involved
Like any opioid, Oxycontin is very addictive, despite what many drug companies said when first making them. Of course, opioid addiction can be very dangerous, and something you should be aware of when taking these pills. It’s very important to follow your prescription and be aware if you feel like you’re building a dependency.
There’s also some side-effects to keep in mind. Some of the most common ones tend to be nausea, dizziness, digestive problems, and insomnia. They can also cause breathing problems, especially for those with asthma. If you have any concerns, be sure to ask your doctor ahead of time.
