Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Oxycodone HCl controlled-release tablets

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

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

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 an extended period, allowing for less frequent dosing compared to immediate-release formulations. This mechanism produces analgesia, sedation, and other opioid effects through modulation of pain perception and emotional response to pain.

Approved indications

• Moderate to severe chronic pain requiring continuous opioid therapy
• Postoperative pain management

Common side effects

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

Key clinical trials

• Opioid-Sparing Joint Replacement (PHASE3)
• Opioid Use Post-Discharge After Ambulatory Distal Arm Surgery (NA)
• Opioid Use After Laparoscopic Salpingectomy (PHASE4)
• NSAID Use After Robotic Partial Nephrectomy (PHASE2)
• Determining the Effect of Abiraterone on the Metabolism of Oxycodone in Men With Prostate Cancer (the ENABLE Study) (PHASE4)
• Postoperative Nudges to Reduce Opioid Prescribing (NA)
• ICE-T Pain Regimen for Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (PHASE4)
• A Study to Evaluate the Intranasal Abuse Potential of PF614 in Non-Dependent Recreational Opioid Users (PF614-103) (PHASE1)

Primary sources

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