OxyContin is a central nervous system depressant that relieves pain and induces sleep. It produces a dreamlike state of warmth and well-being. It may also cause constricted pupils, nausea, and respiratory depression, which in its extremes can result in death.

OxyContin activates brain regions that produce euphoric sensations as well as physical dependence. OxyContin is notorious for the ability to produce both psychological and physical addiction. Its addictiveness is characterized by persistent craving for the drug, tolerance (the need for larger and larger doses to get the same results), and painful and dangerous withdrawal.

Once OxyContin enters the body; it works by stimulating certain opioid receptors that are located throughout the central nervous system, in the brain and along the spinal cord. When OxyContin binds to the opioid receptor a variety of physiologic responses can occur ranging from pain relief, slowed breathing, to euphoria. Since OxyContin is similar to heroin its effects are comparable.