With the announcement that Opana ER will no longer be in production, Oxycontin may be a substitute for patients using the prescription drug. Opioids, regardless of small differences, typically act very much the same.

For example, all opioids bind to certain receptors in the central nervous system and reduce pain. In larger amounts, opioids have the potential to create a euphoric high and many of the side effects are similar between drugs, such as nausea and dizziness. Medical opioids also have a high potential for abuse, which is why they are available only with a prescription.