OxyContin® (
oxycodone ER) is a narcotic, opioid pain reliever approved for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. It comes in the form of extended-release tablets and is typically taken twice a day.
OxyContin tablets are available in eight different strengths, including:
- 10 mg
- 15 mg
- 20 mg
- 30 mg
- 40 mg
- 60 mg
- 80 mg
- 160 mg.
Since everyone has different tolerance levels to OxyContin, dosing must be individualized for each person. Those who have taken OxyContin or other similar medications for a long time may need (and will tolerate) larger doses. Some people seem to naturally be more sensitive to OxyContin than others.
It is common for healthcare providers to start patients with a low dose of a short-acting
oxycodone product and increase the dosage as necessary and as tolerated. Once the dose is stable, the healthcare provider may recommend a switch to OxyContin.
80 mg OxyContin tablets, 160 mg tablets, and 60 mg tablets are inappropriate (and probably dangerous) for people who are not accustomed to opioid medications.
(Click OxyContin Dosage for tips and precautions for taking this medication and to find out what steps your healthcare provider may take to determine an appropriate OxyContin dose for your situation.)
