Are OxyContin and Oxycodone different?

As a matter of fact, there are differences between OxyContin and oxycodone, although they are obviously related. Actually, oxycodone is the main active ingredient used in many pain relievers, which include OxyContin - so, since OxyContin contains oxycodone, some people tend to get confused about in what ways they are distinct.

Both OxyContin and oxycodone are addictive if not used properly and with medical observation. To have a doctor monitor the use of these drugs is important to minimize the addiction risk. However, the forms of addiction vary because the drugs are different, even though they have the same active substance - so, it is important to understand the differences between OxyContin and oxycodone.

The main difference is the time-release of the substances, or the time they will have effects over the body. Oxycodone has an immediate release, and wears of quickly: in 4 to 6 hours. This means the patient using oxycodone - or someone suffering with an addiction - should have to take the substance more frequently.

OxyContin, on the other hand, has a time-release formula which allows it to act over a longer time-span: up to 12 hours. It is easy to understand the medical need of this: allowing the person to sleep the whole night without having to wake up for medication.

Some people spread the myth that oxycodone addiction would be more "dangerous" than OxyContin. This is untrue - the use of both medications should be accompanied by a professional, and in case there is an addiction of either one, it is important to search for help as early as possible. Both addiction are extremely problematic for both the person's health and social life, and should not be taken lightly.