OxyContin® is the brand name for extended-release oxycodone. The 60 mg strength is reserved for patients with severe, chronic pain who are opioid-tolerant, meaning they have been regularly using opioid medications under medical supervision.
OxyContin 60 mg is typically prescribed for:
Severe cancer-related pain
Chronic pain in patients already on opioid therapy
Pain that requires around-the-clock management rather than as-needed relief
Long-term palliative or end-of-life pain management
Because it is extended-release, it provides continuous pain control over 12 hours, unlike immediate-release opioids, which require more frequent dosing. It is not intended for short-term or mild pain, and dosing must be carefully individualized by a healthcare professional.
OxyContin 60 mg is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States. This reflects:
High potential for misuse and addiction
Risk of physical dependence
Serious safety concerns, including respiratory depression and overdose
Extended-release opioids carry additional risks because the medication is formulated to release oxycodone slowly over time. Crushing, chewing, or tampering with the tablet can release the full dose at once, dramatically increasing the risk of life-threatening overdose.
Regulatory safeguards include:
Prescriptions only by licensed healthcare providers
No automatic refills; each prescription must be issued individually
Dispensing only through licensed pharmacies
Monitoring through Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs)
Strict documentation and safe handling requirements
These measures are in place to balance access for patients in need with protection against misuse and diversion.
Access to OxyContin 60 mg occurs only through direct medical care, including:
Administered for severe acute pain or post-surgical pain in controlled settings
Staff closely monitor dosing, vital signs, and side effects
Chronic pain patients may be evaluated by board-certified pain specialists
Specialists assess opioid tolerance, prior treatments, and alternative therapies
Structured treatment plans with ongoing monitoring ensure safe use
Prescribed for cancer-related pain or end-of-life care
Focus is on improving quality of life while managing severe pain
Dosing is tailored to each patient and continuously monitored
Important: Legal access requires evaluation by a licensed clinician. Extended-release opioids should never be obtained outside of a healthcare setting.
OxyContin 60 mg carries significant risks and must be used exactly as prescribed.
Respiratory depression (slowed or stopped breathing)
Overdose, especially if combined with alcohol or other sedatives
Drowsiness, dizziness, or impaired coordination
Nausea, vomiting, constipation
Long-term use can lead to physical dependence, with withdrawal symptoms if discontinued suddenly
Tolerance may develop, requiring careful dosing adjustments
Some patients may develop opioid use disorder
Clinicians minimize risks through:
Close follow-up appointments and dose adjustments
Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) checks
Urine drug screenings when appropriate
Patient agreements for opioid therapy and safe use
Patients should never crush, chew, or alter the tablet, as this can release the entire dose at once and cause fatal overdose.
Patients prescribed OxyContin 60 mg are expected to:
Take the medication exactly as prescribed
Store it securely, away from children or others
Never share or sell medication
Dispose of unused tablets through authorized take-back programs
Report side effects or concerns promptly to their healthcare provider
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