What Are Roxys? (Roxicodone)

Written By: Erika Dalton, LCSW Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Rahul Gupta, MD Last Updated: October 5, 2023



There are several different types of opioids used to treat painful medical conditions. Roxicodone, a.k.a. Roxys, is one such type. So, it is easy to understand that you may be wondering what are Roxys and how are they different from other opioid drugs? 

Buckhead Behavioral Health can help you if you’re struggling with Roxy addiction. Our opioid rehab in Atlanta provides the vital, effective care you need to get you on the path toward recovery. Visit our admissions page or give us a call at (470) 460-6789 now.  

What Are Roxys (Roxicodone)?

Roxicodone, or roxys, is one of the several different types of formulations of Oxycodone. Roxys are immediate release, fast-acting pills or tablets used to treat painful conditions. In addition, Roxys can be used with other opioid medications to treat acute and chronic pain. 

As the drug attaches to the pain receptors, it lowers the transmission rate of pain signals sent to the brain. Therefore, reducing moderate to severe pain the person is experiencing. However, opioids do not treat the cause of the pain, they only reduce it. 

Opioids are considered some of the most potent prescription pain-relieving drugs on the market today. They help reduce pain by attaching to pain receptors in the brain, central nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract. 

Roxicodone vs. Oxycodone

The major difference between Oxycodone vs Roxicodone is how fast the drug is released into the body to reduce pain. Since Roxy’s are immediate release pills, their effects occur much faster than Oxycodone. The effects can be felt in as little as 15 minutes. Yet, since they are fast-acting, their potency does not last as long as Oxycodone and can start to diminish within an hour or two. 

On the other hand, Oxycodone is a time-release drug that slowly and more steadily reduces pain. So it can take anywhere from about 30 minutes to an hour before one notices the effects of Oxycodone. However, the effects tend to last much longer than Roxicodone, sometimes up to 6 hours or more. 

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Are Roxy’s Addictive?

While the effects of Roxy’s are not as long-lasting as oxycodone, it is the immediate rush of pain relief that people enjoy. As a result, the brain remembers the pleasurable sensations as positive behavior. So, yes, Roxy’s are incredibly addictive. Subconsciously, the use of Roxys is reinforced, which makes this opioid drug highly addictive. 

In cases where someone is taking Roxy’s when they do not need them, the fast-acting rush they experience can bring about a pleasurable euphoric sensations. As such, it is easy to understand that one would want to experience these sensations and feelings repeatedly, further reinforcing the addictiveness of Roxicodone. 

How Long Do Roxy’s Stay in Your System?

The amount of time it takes for a drug to be eliminated from your system can depend on various factors including the dose taken, the frequency of use, individual metabolism, and others.

For oxycodone, here’s a general guideline:

1. Half-Life: The half-life of oxycodone is typically between 3.5 and 5.5 hours. This means that after this time, half of the drug has been eliminated from your system.
2. Full Elimination: It generally takes around 5-6 half-lives for a drug to be fully eliminated from your system. In the case of oxycodone, this would be roughly 17.5 to 33 hours from the time of your last dose.
3. Urine Test: Oxycodone can be detected in a urine test for approximately 3-4 days after the last dose, though this can vary depending on individual factors.
4. Blood Test: It can be detected in blood tests for roughly 24 hours, though this can be shorter or longer depending on various factors.
5. Saliva Test: In saliva, oxycodone might be detectable for 1-4 days after the last dose.
6. Hair Test: Hair tests can potentially detect oxycodone for up to 90 days or longer after the last dose.

What Are Roxys Abuse Warning Signs?

The initial signs of Roxy abuse can go unnoticed for quite some time. Plus, developing an addiction to Roxicodone is gradual. Part of the reason for this is that the body slowly starts to build a tolerance to the drug, which is also a warning sign.

Once the body is tolerant to the current dosage of Roxy, it may seem like the medication is no longer working, even though it is. So, to achieve the rush of euphoric sensations, larger doses are taken. 

Unfortunately, even when someone takes Roxy as prescribed by their doctor, they can still be set on the path to addiction when they start self-medicating and increasing their dosage. 

Some of the signs that indicate Roxy abuse include:

• Taking larger amounts or more than intended
• Unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use
• Time spent in activities used to obtain Roxy’s, use it or recover from it’s effects
• Cravings or strong desires to use Roxys
• Recurrent use resulting in failure to fulfill major obligations at work, school, or home
• Continued use despite having persistent or recurrent problems
• Social, occupational, or recreational activities reduced due to use
• Recurrent use in situations that may be physically hazardous
• Continued use despite knowing physical or psychological consequences
• A develop in tolerance defined by a need for increased amount of Roxy’s to achieve the same desired effect
• Withdrawal symptoms

Please remember the signs of Roxy misuse can vary based on the individual. 

Side Effects of Roxy Abuse

There can be other more serious side effects from prolonged misuse of the drug, such as:

• Respiratory Infections
• Extreme Fatigue
• Chest Pains
• Seizures
• Itchiness
• Heart Attack
• Respiratory Failure
• Vomiting
• Psychosis
• Uncontrolled Sweating
• Inability to Stay Awake
• Body Aches and Pains
• Coma
• Death
• Major Depressive Disorder

Furthermore, as addiction takes hold, one will find they are unable to discontinue Roxy use. Should they attempt to stop on their own, they experience several withdrawal symptoms, many of which are rather unpleasant. As a result, they quickly return to misusing the medication. 

How Long Do The Effects of Roxicodone Last?

The duration of the effects of Roxicodone depends on various factors, including the specific dosage taken, the formulation of the drug (immediate-release versus controlled-release), and individual patient factors like metabolism, age, weight, and overall health.

Immediate-Release Roxicodone:

• Onset of Action: Typically begins to work within 15 to 30 minutes after administration.
• Peak Effects: Usually observed within 1 to 2 hours.
• Duration: The pain-relieving effects usually last for approximately 4 to 6 hours.

Controlled-Release Roxicodone:

• Onset of Action: May take longer to start working compared to the immediate-release formulation.
• Peak Effects: The peak level might be reached in about 3 to 4 hours.
• Duration: The pain-relieving effects can last for about 12 hours.

Factors Influencing Duration:

• Metabolism: Individuals with faster metabolic rates may process the drug more quickly.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Impaired liver or kidney function can affect how the body processes and eliminates the drug, potentially leading to prolonged effects.
• Tolerance: Individuals who have developed tolerance to opioids may experience diminished or shorter-duration effects.
• Drug Interactions: Other medications or substances may influence the metabolism and effects of Roxicodone.

It’s crucial to take Roxicodone exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider, as improper use can lead to severe side effects, including respiratory distress and death. Individuals should also avoid using alcohol or other CNS depressants while taking Roxicodone, as these can enhance the sedative effects and increase the risk of dangerous side effects.

What Are Roxys Abuse Addiction Treatment Options?

Since Roxy is an opioid drug, treatment for addiction requires clinically supervised detox. The individual needs to be carefully weaned off Roxy while minimizing withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, it is common to utilize medication-assisted treatment (MAT) or Vivitrol that helps reduce the withdrawal effects of Roxy until the person has been safely detoxed.

Additionally, treatment for dual diagnosis may be necessary, especially if the person is suffering from depression or anxiety disorder. When you desire to stop abusing Roxy, it is highly recommended to seek professional help with detox and drug rehab to avoid relapsing. 

Roxy Addiction Treatment in Atlanta

Now that you know what Roxys are and how addictive this opioid can be, you may be ready to begin your quest for a better tomorrow and start your recovery journey at Buckhead Behavioral Health in Atlanta. We understand how challenging it can be to admit you need help and are here to assist you through your recovery.
We offer supervised detox to help you stop misusing Roxy’s safely. We also provide personalized rehab treatment programs for teens and adults. For further information about our Roxy addiction detox and treatment programs, please feel free to contact our admissions team today!