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Oxycontin
Oxycontin is the brand name of the pain reliever Oxycodone. Oxycontin is usually prescribed when a patient has already taken an opioid or narcotic pain reliever and continues to suffer significant and constant pain that lasts for more than a few days.
Oxycontin is manufactured by Purdue Pharma and has been available in the United States since 1996. Over the past 10 years, Oxycontin has become one of the best selling narcotic pain relievers in the country. However, it is not without significant risks.
How to Take Oxycontin
Oxycontin can be habit forming. Thus, it is important that the drug be taken, and stopped, exactly as directed by a physician. Do not change the way in which the medication is presented. For example, crushing a pill or dissolving it in water can be dangerous. Also, your doctor will likely recommend that you gradually decrease your dose of Oxycontin should you need to stop using the drug so as to avoid significant drug withdrawal symptoms.
Oxycontin Side Effects
Oxycontin users are urged to contact a doctor immediately if they experience:
- A change in their normal heartbeat.
- Problems breathing.
- A rash, hives or swelling.
- Hoarseness or trouble swallowing.
- Hallucinations or confusion.
- Seizures or fainting.
- Dizziness or loss of consciousness.
Oxycontin Abuse
Oxycontin can result in effects similar to the street drug heroin, particularly when an Oxycontin tablet is chewed or crushed. As a result, it is a popular form of prescription drug abuse. While it is illegal to take oxycontin without a doctor's prescription, it is also possible that Purdue Pharma may have failed to warn people of the highly addictive nature of this drug and that may be contributing to this epidemic of Oxycontin abuse throughout the nation.
If your doctor prescribes Oxycontin then it is important to be aware of the potential side effects for you, as the patient, and for others who may have access to your prescription pills. If you, or a loved one, have been hurt by Oxycontin, please contact an Oxycontin lawyer for more information about your legal rights.