Oxycodone
A widely prescribed opioid that can lead to dependence.
Oxycodone is a prescription opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain. Brand names include OxyContin, Percocet, and Roxicodone. Like other full opioid agonists, oxycodone carries a significant risk of physical dependence with prolonged use.
Opioid use disorder can develop even when oxycodone is taken as prescribed. Stopping abruptly typically causes withdrawal symptoms including anxiety, muscle aches, sweating, nausea, and intense cravings.
Transition to buprenorphine
Timing matters when switching from oxycodone.
Buprenorphine is started after opioids have begun to clear the system and mild withdrawal has set in — typically 12 to 24 hours after the last oxycodone dose, depending on the formulation. Starting too soon can cause precipitated withdrawal.
Your physician will walk you through the timing at the end of your first visit. For most patients transitioning from oxycodone, the induction process is straightforward compared to longer-acting opioids like methadone or fentanyl.
Extended-release oxycodone (OxyContin) has a longer half-life than immediate-release forms. This may affect induction timing. Your physician will assess your specific situation.
Counterfeit pills
Many "oxycodone" pills on the street contain fentanyl.
A significant portion of pills sold as oxycodone — particularly the 30mg "M30" blue pills — are counterfeit and contain illicitly manufactured fentanyl instead of oxycodone. This has substantially increased overdose risk for people who believe they are using prescription opioids.
If you have been using street pills, your physician will take this into account during your evaluation. Fentanyl behaves differently from oxycodone in the body, and induction timing may need to be adjusted accordingly.
What treatment looks like
Simple to start. Continuous from there.
Call or text
Same-day visits often available. No referral needed. (888) 835-9995.
Meet your physician
Video visit from your phone or computer — no travel, no waiting room.
Prescription sent to your pharmacy
If appropriate, sent electronically the same day.
Ongoing care
Same physician every visit. Monthly appointments once stable.
Related
More information.
Where we practice
Virginia · Maryland · Washington DC · West Virginia · Ohio
Related pages
Fentanyl treatment · Methadone vs Suboxone · What is Suboxone · The science · Heroin and Suboxone