OxyContin

OxyContin is a controlled-release formulation of oxycodone hydrochloride developed and marketed by Purdue Pharma LP of Stamford, Connecticut. Currently, OxyContin is available in dosage strengths of 10,20,40, 80, and 160 milligrams per tablet. Purdue Pharma developed OxyContin as a long-acting opioid analgesic indicated for moderate to severe pain and began marketing it in December 1995. However, the wax matrix controlled-release formulation of OxyContin can be bypassed by crushing the tablet, resulting in an immediately available, large dose of oxycodone that can be taken by routes unintended in its original formulation (e.g., intranasally or intravenously). The ease with which such a large dose of oxycodone is available resulted in reports of widespread abuse, particularly in [Page 675]rural areas of the United States. Such reports have led ...