See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Oxycontin
What are the generic (non-brand) names for OxyContin?
OxyContin’s active ingredient is oxycodone hydrochloride (controlled-release). Generic versions use the same active ingredient plus a “controlled-release” description, for example:
- oxycodone hydrochloride controlled-release tablets (often just written as “oxycodone HCl ER”)
Because generic products are approved through multiple manufacturers and specific strengths, the exact product naming you’ll see on prescriptions can vary by manufacturer and dosage.
What generic “name” will a pharmacy actually show on the label?
Pharmacy labels typically show the generic drug name in this form:
- Oxycodone Hydrochloride ER (controlled-release)
It will also include the strength (for example, 10 mg, 20 mg, etc.) and sometimes a formulation/brand of the manufacturer, but the key generic name component is oxycodone hydrochloride controlled-release.
Are there different generic names if the formulation changes?
Yes. If the prescription is for a different release type, the generic name changes:
- Immediate-release: oxycodone hydrochloride
- Controlled-release (what OxyContin uses): oxycodone hydrochloride controlled-release (ER)
If you tell me the exact wording on your prescription (including ER vs. IR), I can help interpret what type it is.
How does this relate to brand drugs like OxyContin?
OxyContin is the brand name for oxycodone hydrochloride controlled-release tablets. Generic oxycodone ER tablets are intended to be therapeutically equivalent to that formulation (same active ingredient and dosage form).