OxyContin is a brand name for the opioid medication oxycodone, which is prescribed for managing moderate to severe pain. It's formulated as an extended-release tablet, allowing the drug to be released slowly over time to provide long-lasting pain relief.

OxyContin is typically prescribed for chronic pain conditions, such as cancer-related pain, where around-the-clock pain management is necessary. As an opioid, OxyContin works by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, altering the perception of pain and providing a sense of euphoria.

This property makes it highly effective for pain relief but also poses a significant risk for misuse, addiction, and overdose. Due to its potential for abuse, OxyContin is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, meaning it is tightly regulated.