Definition

The hydrochloride salt of oxycodone, a methylether of oxymorphone and semisynthetic opioid agonist with analgesic and antitussive properties. Oxycodone binds to mu-receptors in the central nervous system (CNS), thereby mimicking the effects of endogenous opiates. In addition to analgesia and a depressive effect on the cough center in the medulla, this agent may cause euphoria, anxiolysis, miosis, sedation, physical dependence, constipation, and respiratory depression, depending on dosage and variations in individual metabolism.