Oxycodone Drug Classification
Oxycodone belongs to the opioid analgesic drug class, specifically classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse, addiction, and misuse. 1
Pharmacological Classification
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid agonist with the following receptor activity:
- Primary mechanism: Mu-opioid receptor agonist 2
- Additional activity: Kappa and delta-opioid receptor agonist 2, 3
- Chemical structure: Semi-synthetic congener derived from thebaine, a naturally occurring opioid alkaloid 2, 4
Regulatory Classification
Schedule II Controlled Substance under the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act of 1970: 1
- High abuse potential: Similar to other Schedule II opioids including morphine, hydromorphone, fentanyl, and methadone 1
- Risk profile: Carries significant risk of addiction, abuse, and criminal diversion even under appropriate medical use 1
- Prescribing implications: Requires careful record-keeping, proper assessment, and monitoring for signs of abuse and addiction 1
Clinical Context
Oxycodone is pharmacologically comparable to morphine with an equianalgesic ratio of approximately 1:1.5-2 (meaning oxycodone is 1.5-2 times more potent than oral morphine): 2, 3
- Bioavailability: 60-87% orally, significantly higher than morphine 2, 3
- Formulations: Available as immediate-release and extended-release preparations, alone or in combination with acetaminophen 2
Critical Safety Note
Self-prescribing opioids represents a serious ethical and legal violation that poses significant risks including addiction, diversion, and professional misconduct. 1