OxyContin is a painkiller that contains the narcotic drug oxycodone. OxyContin, manufactured by Purdue Pharma, has a time-release mechanism meant to prevent overdoses, but crushing or dissolving the pill can release the entire dose at one time and produce an overdose. Mixing OxyContin with alcohol can also result in an overdose.

Overdoses can cause death, coma, and brain damage, often brought on by respiratory failure. The symptoms can begin soon after the drug is taken. Symptoms of OxyContin overdose include:

• Slowed breathing
• Unconsciousness
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Contracted pupils
• Confusion
• Clammy or cold skin
• Seizure
• Coma

Oxycodone, the active ingredient of OxyContin, is a highly addictive drug, similar to morphine. It is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency). Addiction can occur after only 5 to 7 days of use. Symptoms of OxyContin withdrawal are the same as any withdrawal from narcotic addiction. These symptoms can begin within hours of the last use and last up to 1 week. The symptoms include:

• Nausea and diarrhea
• Intense body pain
• Abdominal cramping
• Tremors
• Muscle cramps and spasms
• Chills
• Running nose and eyes
• Heavy sweating
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Depression

Other less serious side effects of OxyContin include:

• Altered mental states
• Confusion
• Light headedness
• Constipation
• Dry mouth

If you or a family member has suffered side effects from OxyContin, you may be able to recover damages. Your first step in doing that is to have your case evaluated by a qualified attorney. See OxyContin Attorney and Lawyer – How to Hire to find an experienced OxyContin lawyer.

Check out the following articles for more information about OxyContin, filing a OxyContin lawsuit and finding a OxyContin attorney:

• For more information about OxyContin, see Drug Overview: OxyContin Side Effects and Claims
• To find out more about the FDA warning, see OxyContin Side Effects and Risks
• For more information about OxyContin updates, see OxyContin Information and Warnings
• If you would like to learn more about OxyContin lawsuits, see OxyContin Lawsuits, Litigation & Lawyers
• To learn more about OxyContin attorneys and how to find one, see Hiring a OxyContin Attorney and Lawyer

Suffered harm from OxyContin? You may have a lawsuit. Click here, for a top rated law firm to evaluate your legal rights.