Does OxyContin cause weight gain?

No. OxyContin has not been associated with weight gain in medical trials. But some other side effects of OxyContin may contribute to weight gain. More on weight gain and OxyContin here.

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What is OxyContin?

OxyContin is the brand name for a time release formula containing oxycodone hydrochloride. Doctors prescribe OxyContin mainly for chronic or severe pain relief, as oral tablets in doses from 10-160 mg. When taken as prescribed, the medication has a controlled release effect of Oxycodone over a 12 hour period, making it the longest lasting pain reliever on the market.

Weight gain and OxyContin

Oxycontin has not been linked directly to weight gain. Although OxyContin has not been related to weight gain in clinical trials, other adverse reactions can occur when you are taking OxyContin which may contribute to a perceived gain in weight. The most commonly reported side effect of OxyContin – constipation – can certainly contribute to a higher number on the balance scale. And increased appetite and depression may contribute to different eating patterns. A full list of the adverse side effects of OxyContin can be viewed via the National Library of Medicine encyclopedia for OXYCONTIN.

OxyContin is highly addictive

Beware, because OxyContin has a high potential for abuse. In fact, OxyContin is a federally controlled substance as a Schedule II narcotic because it is a strong opioid pain medicine with high potential for addiction. Some people have even compared OxyContin to heroin, and when it is used for non medical purposes it has the same physical and psychological effects as heroin. You can find a list of the most often abused prescription drugs here.  And some names for OxyContin on the streets include:

  • 80’s
  • Beans
  • OC
  • Orange crayons
  • Oxy

Do you have a problem with OxyContin?

If you think that you might have a problem stopping OxyContin, or if you are obsessing about taking your next pill…you are not alone. OxyContin addiction is a medical condition that can be treated. More on overcoming addiction here.

As a first step, speak with your prescribing doctor and note doses and times that you are taking OxyContin. Then, you might follow suggestions or referrals for seeking help at an in or out-patient drug rehab, or drug counseling. Either way, if you want to stop taking OxyContin and are ready to move on, you can. Your questions and comments are welcomed below. We try to answer all queries personally and promptly.

Reference sources: NDIC Department of Justice publication 651
FDA drug info on OxyContin
Daily Med entry for OXYCONTIN (oxycodone hydrochloride)
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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