Roxicodone: Effects, & Addiction Risk, & Withdrawal

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Updated September 18, 2023
Updated September 18, 2023
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Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

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Edited By:

Amy Leifeste

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Medically Reviewed By:

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

Picture of Authored By:

Authored By:

Joe Gilmore

Picture of Edited By:

Edited By:

Amy Leifeste

Picture of Medically Reviewed By:

Medically Reviewed By:

Javier Rodriguez-Winter

image of man representing the question what is roxicodone

What is a roxy pill? Roxicodone is a branded formulation of oxycodone. Roxicodones are prescribed to alleviate severe pain that requires opioid treatment. The medication is typically indicated only when other pain medications have been ineffective or cannot be tolerated. Roxy pills are narcotic analgesics that act on the CNS (central nervous system) to provide pain relief.

Roxicodone is not indicated for short-term pain management like post-surgery recovery or mild pain situations where non-narcotic alternatives are effective. It is not intended for on-demand pain relief.

Long-term use of oxycodone can lead to physical dependence and addiction. That said, those battling chronic pain should not avoid using narcotics to alleviate their discomfort due to concerns about dependence. Mental addiction is unlikely when opioids are used for this therapeutic purpose, but physical dependence can lead to withdrawal symptoms if treatment is abruptly halted. Gradual dose reduction over time before discontinuation typically prevents severe withdrawal effects.

Roxicodone is available in various forms, including extended-release capsules and tablets, regular tablets, a liquid solution, and capsules. The DEA (United States Drug Enforcement Administration) categorizes oxycodone as a Schedule II controlled substance that is available only with a prescription.

What is Roxicodone Used For?

Roxicodone (oxycodone) is a potent opioid medication primarily prescribed for the management of severe pain. It is used in various medical situations and conditions where intense pain relief is necessary, such as:

  • Post-surgical pain: After major surgical procedures like orthopedic surgeries or abdominal surgeries, Roxicodone may be prescribed to alleviate post-operative pain, and make recovery more comfortable.
  • Chronic pain management: For individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions like cancer-related pain, severe back pain, or neuropathic pain, Roxicodone can offer relief and improve their quality of life.
  • Injury-related pain: Roxy is sometimes used to manage acute pain resulting from injuries – fractures, burns, or traumatic injuries, for instance.
  • End-of-life care: In palliative care and hospice settings, Roxicodone is employed to ease the severe pain often associated with terminal illnesses, enhancing the comfort of patients in their final stages of life.
  • Pain due to medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, like severe arthritis or advanced stages of diseases such as multiple sclerosis, can cause debilitating pain. Roxicodone may be prescribed to help manage this type of pain.
  • Dental procedures: Dentists may use Roxicodone to manage severe pain following oral surgeries or complex dental procedures.

Roxicodone should be used strictly under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Misuse, overuse, or unauthorized use of this medication is associated with serious health risks, including addiction and overdose. Always follow healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage, duration, and safety precautions.

an image of pills representing roxicodone

Side Effects of Roxicodone

Roxicodone, which contains oxycodone as its active ingredient, can produce a range of side effects. Roxicodone side effects may vary in intensity from person to person, and not everyone will experience all of them. Common side effects may include:

Drowsiness

One of the most prevalent side effects of Roxicodone is drowsiness or sedation. It can impair a person’s ability to operate machinery or perform tasks requiring full attention. 

Constipation

Opioid medications like Roxicodone often lead to constipation. Increasing fluid intake and dietary fiber may help mitigate this issue.

Nausea and vomiting

Some individuals may experience nausea or vomiting, especially when initiating treatment with Roxicodone. Taking the medication with food can sometimes reduce this side effect. 

Dizziness

Roxicodone can cause dizziness, leading to a feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness. 

Dry mouth

A dry mouth or excessive thirst is another side effect that some people may encounter while taking Roxicodone. 

Itching

Itching or skin rash can occur in response to the medication. This side effect is less common but should be reported to a healthcare provider if it becomes bothersome. 

Sweating

Profuse sweating or changes in body temperature regulation may be observed.

Headache

Some individuals may experience headaches as a side effect of Roxicodone. 

Mood changes

Roxicodone can affect mood and emotions. Some people may feel more irritable or anxious, while others may experience an improvement in mood due to pain relief. 

Respiratory depression

Although less common, the use of Roxicodone can lead to respiratory depression, where breathing becomes slower and shallower. This is a serious side effect that requires immediate medical attention.

It is imperative for those prescribed Roxicodone to communicate any side effects or concerns with their healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, follow the prescribed dosage and do not alter the medication regimen without consulting a healthcare professional. This can help reduce the risk of side effects and ensure the safe and effective use of Roxicodone.

Roxicodone Addiction

Roxicodone addiction, like addiction to other opioids, can develop over time due to various factors. Genetic factors can predispose some people to be more prone to substance abuse and addiction. Researchers estimate that roughly half of individual susceptibility to addiction is genetic. Social influences and peer pressure can also play a role in Roxicodone misuse and addiction. 

Many people are initially prescribed Roxicodone for legitimate pain management purposes. However, some may misuse or escalate their usage, which can lead to addiction. Others may use Roxicodone recreationally to experience its euphoric effects, leading to an increased risk of addiction. 

Co-occurring mental health disorders, trauma, or stress can contribute to the development of addiction. 

With regular use of Roxicodone, individuals may develop tolerance, meaning that they require higher doses to achieve the same pain relief or euphoria. Tolerance is a common feature of opioid use but should be monitored closely by healthcare providers.

Dependence occurs when the body adapts to the presence of Roxicodone and relies on it to function normally. When a person becomes dependent, they may experience withdrawal symptoms when the drug is reduced or discontinued. Dependence is a hallmark of addiction and a significant concern with opioids. 

DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision), provides criteria for diagnosing opioid use disorder, which can include Roxicodone addiction. Symptoms of opioid use disorder include:

  • Taking more opioids than before or using the medication for longer than intended.
  • Making unsuccessful efforts to moderate or discontinue opioid use.
  • Spending lots of time obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of opioids.
  • Experiencing urges or cravings for opioids.
  • Failing to fulfill personal or professional obligations due to opioid use.
  • Continuing to use opioids despite the effects triggering or inflaming social and interpersonal problems.
  • Giving up or reducing important activities due to opioid use.
  • Using opioids in potentially dangerous scenarios – before driving, for instance.
  • Ongoing opioid use even though it is causing or worsening a physical or psychological health condition.
  • Tolerance, as defined by requiring more opioids to deliver the initial effects or experiencing diminished effects when using the same amount of opioids.
  • Withdrawal symptoms presenting upon discontinuation.

Individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek professional help and support for recovery from Roxicodone addiction. Opioid addiction is a progressive and chronic condition that typically worsens over time if untreated.

an image of someone getting help for Roxicodone addiction

Get Treatment for Roxicodone Addiction and Withdrawal at California Detox

While addiction to Roxicodone can be aggravating and disruptive, we can help you initiate a full recovery at California Detox in Laguna Beach, CA. 

Opioid withdrawal can be most effectively treated through supervised medical detoxification. Take advantage of medications alongside continuous clinical and emotional care to get your recovery started the right way. After a week or so, you will be ready to move into ongoing treatment. 

Our 30-day inpatient program provides the most structured and supportive way of treating Roxicodone addiction. All treatment programs at California Detox blend evidence-based and holistic interventions for a whole-body approach to recovery from opioid addiction. These may include:

Call admissions today at 949.694.8305 and kickstart your recovery right away.

FAQs

A Roxy pill, or Roxicodone, contains the active ingredient oxycodone, a powerful opioid analgesic used for managing moderate to severe pain. It may also contain various inactive ingredients.
What is the difference between Roxicodone and oxycodone, then? Roxicodone is a branded form of oxycodone, while oxycodone is the generic form.

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