Oxycodone is a very powerful and addictive
analgesic medication synthesized from
thebaine.
It is similar to
codeine, but is more potent and has a higher dependence potential.
It is effective orally and is marketed in combination with
aspirin (Percodan®) or
acetaminophen (Percocet®) for the relief of pain.
Oxycodone comes in two forms: an immediate release form, sold under the brand name OxyIR® and a sustained release form, sold under the brand name Oxycontin®.
Addicts take these tablets orally or dissolve them in water, filter out the insoluble material, and "mainline" the active drug.
Oxycodone may some day become illegal due to its recreational use, but doctors and sufferers of pain (and drug companies) are lobbying against its banning.