What is Oxycodone?

This prescription drug is designed to alleviate chronic pain. It’s also a highly popular drug of choice for illicit users. In the US it has been dubbed “hillbilly heroin” because of the high level of addiction in rural communities. Its popularity is partly down to the fact that it is cheap and easy to get hold of and it offers a powerful “hit” that is similar to that of heroin.

Is Oxycodone a New Drug?

Oxycodone’s potency is similar to that of morphine and it has an opiate effect that is quite similar. It’s not a new drug — in fact, the addictive and euphoric properties of Oxycodone have been well documented since the 1920s. It differs from morphine in that it is a drug time-released drug, which allows patients who are in pain to feel the benefit over 24 hours.

Abuse of this sustained-release drug is a relatively new phenomenon linked to strong variants of the drug being available, such as the trademarked OxyContin. Pills are crushed up, which destroys the slow-release aspect of the drug. The powder is then snorted, smoked or injected, enabling a heroin-type high for the user.

As a result, Oxycodone abuse has become an epidemic in the United States in recent years, with opioid overdoses being one of the leading causes of death. The pharmaceutical industry, which has made billions of dollars off these painkillers, has been heavily criticised for its role in promoting the drug and downplaying its addictive properties. In response, there have been efforts to crack down on over-prescribing and increase awareness of the dangers of these drugs. However, the problem persists and continues to affect countless individuals and families across the country. It serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences that can result from addiction and the importance of early intervention and treatment.

What Risks Are Associated With Oxycodone?

Many users of oxycodone experience a range of health side effects, even when the drug is used as prescribed by a doctor. These can include nausea, vomiting, sweating, dizziness, headache and fatigue. More dangerous and acute side effects of the drug can include shallow breathing, shortness of breath, slow pulse, seizures and blackouts.

How Dangerous Is Oxycodone?

The drug has been linked to hundreds of deaths in the USA in recent years and the drug is now seen as the most commonly abused prescription drug in the United States. There have also been a number of deaths in the UK as well, with the first fatality being recorded in 2002. Unfortunately, more British deaths are expected.

How to Recognise Oxycodone Addiction

Early warning signs of oxycodone addiction include needing higher doses to get the same effect, trying to get prescriptions from multiple doctors, and being unable to stop using despite wanting to. Physical signs may include mood swings, poor sleep, sweating, and anxiety when the drug wears off. Social signs often include withdrawing from family and friends, problems at work, and spending a lot of time and money trying to get more pills. If you spot these signs in yourself or others, seek help right away from a doctor or addiction specialist.

The Rise of Fentanyl-Laced Oxycodone

Recent years have seen a troubling trend: counterfeit oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl. These fake pills, often indistinguishable from legitimate medication, pose a severe risk to users. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50-100 times stronger than morphine, can cause overdose even in tiny amounts. Law enforcement agencies report seizing increasing numbers of these counterfeits. Users who think they’re taking oxycodone may unknowingly ingest a lethal dose of fentanyl. This development has made the opioid crisis even more deadly, catching many off guard. It underscores the importance of only using medication prescribed by a doctor and obtained from a licensed pharmacy.

Is Oxycodone Legal to Use in the UK?

Oxycodone is controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act and is classified as a Class A drug. This means that possession of the drug when it has not been prescribed for you could result in community service or up to 7 years in prison.

For employers considering workplace drug testing, it’s important to understand the legal framework and best practices. Testing for prescription opioids like oxycodone requires clear policies and employee consent.

How Long Does Oxycodone Stay in Your System?

Detection times for oxycodone vary depending on the type of drug test used:

These windows can vary based on factors including dosage, frequency of use, metabolism, body mass, and hydration levels. Heavy or chronic users may test positive for longer periods than occasional users.

Testing for Oxycodone

Oxycodone is one of the drugs that can be detected by the Zoom Testing 18 panel drug test with integrated cup. This comprehensive drug test is one of the most advanced screening kits currently available in the UK. If you want to screen for Oxycodone, as well as a wide selection of other drugs including ecstasy and ketamine, this is the best cup drug test kit you can find.

The 18-panel test includes specific detection for oxycodone (OXY) as well as other commonly abused opioids. This makes it ideal for employers implementing drug testing policies, parents concerned about prescription drug abuse, or individuals who need comprehensive screening. For more information about choosing between 12 and 18 panel tests, see our comparison guide.

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Photo by Anthony Cunningham for Zoom Testing

Zoom Testing is a leading UK drug testing company and a supplier of Drug Test Kits.

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