Oxycodone: Introduction, Chemical Structure, and Mechanism of Action
Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic that is applied for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. The use of oxycodone is common in the cases of surgeries and injuries. It is also administered to patients who have chronic conditions, such as cancer or arthritis. However, it has a potential for abuse, addiction, and overdose. Thus, it falls into the category of controlled substance.
Chemical Composition
IUPAC Name: 4-[(5α, 9α)-7,8-dihydroxy-3-methoxy-17-methylmorphinan-6-yl]propionamide
Molecular Formula: C₁₇H₂₁NO₄
Molecular Weight: 315.36 g/mol
Oxycodone is a semisynthetic opioid obtained from thebaine, an alkaloid of the poppy plant. The drug has structural similarities to other opioids such as morphine and hydrocodone, but its specific chemical structure and modifications contribute to its potency and effects.
Mechanism of Action
Oxycodone primarily works through opioid receptors placed in the brain and spinal cord, constituting the body's pain control system. The opioid receptors are part of the G-protein-coupled receptor family and produce diverse physiological effects once activated.
Chemical Composition
IUPAC Name: 4-[(5α, 9α)-7,8-dihydroxy-3-methoxy-17-methylmorphinan-6-yl]propionamide
Molecular Formula: C₁₇H₂₁NO₄
Molecular Weight: 315.36 g/mol
Oxycodone is a semisynthetic opioid obtained from thebaine, an alkaloid of the poppy plant. The drug has structural similarities to other opioids such as morphine and hydrocodone, but its specific chemical structure and modifications contribute to its potency and effects.
Mechanism of Action
Oxycodone primarily works through opioid receptors placed in the brain and spinal cord, constituting the body's pain control system. The opioid receptors are part of the G-protein-coupled receptor family and produce diverse physiological effects once activated.
Preparations and Dosages
Oxycodone is formulated in several forms:
Immediate-release (IR): Generally administered at 4-6 hour intervals for the relief of acute pain.
Extended-release (ER): Used for the sustained relief of pain; dosed once every 12 hours.
Combination products: In many cases, oxycodone is combined with other analgesics like acetaminophen for example, Percocet to enhance the potency of pain relief.
The dosing is typically started low and titrated upward in time to avoid adverse effects, which could include respiratory depression or overdose, but depends on the nature and severity of pain and individual factors that may be unique to patients.
Immediate-release (IR): Generally administered at 4-6 hour intervals for the relief of acute pain.
Extended-release (ER): Used for the sustained relief of pain; dosed once every 12 hours.
Combination products: In many cases, oxycodone is combined with other analgesics like acetaminophen for example, Percocet to enhance the potency of pain relief.
The dosing is typically started low and titrated upward in time to avoid adverse effects, which could include respiratory depression or overdose, but depends on the nature and severity of pain and individual factors that may be unique to patients.
