Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Oxycodone HCl controlled-release

Oxycodone HCl binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system to block pain signal transmission and produce analgesia.

Oxycodone HCl binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system to block pain signal transmission and produce analgesia. Used for Moderate to severe chronic pain requiring continuous opioid therapy.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid agonist that acts primarily on mu (μ) opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. The controlled-release formulation provides sustained drug delivery over 12 hours, maintaining steady-state plasma concentrations for prolonged pain relief. This mechanism reduces both the perception of pain and the emotional response to pain.

Approved indications

• Moderate to severe chronic pain requiring continuous opioid therapy

Common side effects

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Vomiting
• Pruritus
• Headache
• Respiratory depression

Key clinical trials

• A Study of Cebranopadol for the Treatment of Acute Pain After Bunionectomy (PHASE3)
• Opioid-Sparing Joint Replacement (PHASE3)
• Opioid Use Post-Discharge After Ambulatory Distal Arm Surgery (NA)
• Effects of an Opioid Free/Sparing Care Pathway for Patients Undergoing Obesity Surgery (NA)
• Opioid Use After Laparoscopic Salpingectomy (PHASE4)
• Post-Op Pain Control for Prophylactic Intramedullary Nailing. (PHASE3)
• NSAID Use After Robotic Partial Nephrectomy (PHASE2)
• Hip Arthroscopy Postoperative Opioid Demands (NA)

Primary sources

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