Those becoming tolerant of oxycodone may be at a crossroads. Tolerance is the first sign you’re developing an opioid use disorder, meaning it’s time to make a decision. If you’re in severe chronic pain, your doctor will consider prescribing you a higher dose or using more potent opioids to combat the problem. However, if you’re not experiencing relief from oxycodone and want to take more because of how it feels, it might be time to consider stopping. The effects of oxycodone tolerance indicate the current dose is no longer working. You may be inclined to start taking more, but this will surely lead to you becoming dependent on the drug, meaning you’ll experience withdrawal symptoms if you lower the dose. When you become dependent, you’re only taking oxycodone to avoid withdrawal symptoms and not experiencing its effects. If you continue taking the medication at higher doses, you’re in dangerous territory – this is when addiction can occur.