oxycodone hydrochloride /ok″sikōdōn/ , an opioid agonist. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is used to treat moderate to severe pain, often in combination with nonopioid analgesics. OxyContin is a formulation that should be used only when severe persistent pain is anticipated. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: It is used with caution in many conditions, including head injuries, asthma, impaired renal or hepatic function, or unstable cardiovascular status. Known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the most serious adverse effects are drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, constipation, respiratory and circulatory depression, and drug addiction.
