OxyContin is a long-lasting type of oxycodone. Patients only need to take this drug twice daily, and it will release oxycodone continuously throughout a 12-hour period. This slow release is achieved in the OxyContin tablet design. The first layer of the pill offers pain relief in the first 20 minutes, while the inner layers of the pill offer slow, continuous pain relief throughout the remaining 12 hours. OxyContin only comes in an extended-tablet release pill.
OxyContin is a stronger version of oxycodone and is only meant for severe and chronic pain. Patients who take OxyContin typically tried oxycodone and found it didn’t provide enough relief. Usually, OxyContin is given to people with severe pain associated with the last stages of conditions or diseases, such as terminal cancer.
As is the case with oxycodone, OxyContin can be addictive and should only be taken as prescribed.