Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic medication used to treat severe pain. It works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain and increasing levels of dopamine, which can reduce feelings of pain and create feelings of pleasure. However, oxycodone is highly addictive, and it carries a range of serious side effects. Let’s explore the mechanism of action, usage, side effects, and alternatives to oxycodone to help you make an easy decision. Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid highly useful for reducing moderate to severe pain. It binds to brain opioid receptors, which drastically reduces the intensity of pain signals throughout the body. Oxycodone effectively treats persistent and chronic pain but can lead to addiction if you do not take it as per the direction.