Oxycodone and OxyContin are both prescription pain medications that contain oxycodone as the active ingredient. The main difference between the two is the way they are formulated.
Oxycodone is a fast-acting medication that is used to relieve pain on an as-needed basis. It comes in various forms, including immediate-release tablets, capsules, and liquid solutions. It starts to work quickly but its effects typically only last for a few hours.
OxyContin, on the other hand, is a long-acting formulation of oxycodone. It is designed to provide continuous pain relief for an extended period of time, typically 12 hours. It is usually taken once or twice a day and its effects can last for several hours.
Both Oxycodone and OxyContin are potent opioids and can be habit-forming if used for an extended period of time or if taken in higher than prescribed doses. It is important to use them only as directed by a healthcare provider and to avoid taking more than the recommended dose.