What is Oxycontin?

OxyContin is a trade name or brand name for a controlled-release form of the drug oxycodone hydrochloride manufactured by Purdue Pharma L.P. OxyContin is prescribed to provide pain relief for up to 12 hours for chronic and severe pain. It is an opium derivative.

What are the symptoms of an overdose of oxycontin?

Slowing of respiration or breathing, seizures, dizziness, weakness, loss of consciousness, coma, confusion, tiredness, cold, clammy skin, and small pupils. Frequently, the oxycontin user goes to sleep; respirations will decrease until breathing stops completely.

If Oxycontin is so addictive, why don’t those with regular prescriptions become addicted ?

They do. The addiction rate is estimated to be about 13% and would be higher except that many who are legally prescribed this drug are in the last stages of terminal illness.


Why doesn’t the FDA do something about the crime wave and the deaths that I’ve read are caused by Oxycontin?

The FDA does not want to deprive those in need of this medication for severe and chronic pain. Illegal distribution of OxyContin, is a criminal activity that is generally perpetrated by:
· A doctor who fraudulently prescribes OxyContin to abusers for money.
· A pharmacist who illegally fills an abuser’s prescription, or who forges prescriptions for abusers.
· Abusers who steal prescription pads, and then write their own forged prescriptions.
· Dealers, or abusers themselves, who burglarize pharmacies."

Is the government going to do nothing then?

The Controlled Substances Act mandates that the US Department of Justice's Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) prevent, detect and investigate the diversion of legally manufactured controlled substances while, at the same time, ensuring that there are adequate supplies to meet the legitimate medical needs in the United States. The DEA has begun a full investigation.

How much oxycontin causes an overdose?

Deaths have occurred with as little as half a pill when combined with alcohol or other depressants. Some have died taking Oxycontin alone in slightly higher doses.


Is this Oxycontin scare just media hype?

Definitely not.  Six million OxyContin® prescriptions were dispensed in 2000. Medical examiners, drug treatment centers, law enforcement personnel, and pharmacists have all reported substantial increase in the abuse of this product. Oxycodone-related deaths and emergency department episodes have increased 400 percent and 100 percent, respectively, since the drug’s introduction in 1996. Reports show that 50 to 90 percent of newly admitted patients in drug treatment programs identified OxyContin® as their primary drug of abuse.

If a member of my family or myself is addicted to Oxycontin, what can I do?

First, and immediately, seek medical treatment.  Next, contact an attorney who has experience with Oxycontin claims.  You may  have a legal claim and be entitled to restitution.

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