According to DrugFree and data from federal law enforcement agencies, the prices of illicitly sold prescription painkillers such as oxycodone are “sky-high”. (1) These prices are creating a fast-growing street market for prescription painkillers. For example, CNN reports the street price for generic oxycodone is $12–$40 per pill, while the brand name OxyContin is $50–$80 per pill. (2)
Factors That Affect the Price of Illicit Oxycodone Include:
- Availability—The availability of the drug can influence its price. If the drug is easily accessible, the price may be lower.
- Demand—The demand for the drug can also impact its price. If there is a high demand for the drug, the price may be higher.
- Strength—The strength of the drug can also play a role in its price. More potent formulations may be more expensive.
- Dosage—Higher dosages (e.g., 30 mg) generally cost more than low dosages (e.g., 5 mg).
- Quantity—Higher pill quantities (i.e., bulk sales) may be priced lower per pill than lower quantities.
Location—The location where the drug is being sold can also impact its price. Prices may vary between cities and regions. - Risk—The risk associated with selling the drug can also impact its price. If the drug is highly illegal or risky to sell, the price may be higher to compensate for the added risk.
It’s important to note that buying or selling prescription drugs like oxycodone illicitly can have serious health and legal consequences, including addiction, overdose, arrest, and prison time.
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Street Price of Oxycodone Compared to Prescription Costs
The cost of oxycodone with a prescription can vary depending on the dosage, quantity, and insurance coverage. GoodRx offers a coupon that brings the price down to an average of less than $16 for 30 mg of oxycodone per 60 tablet bottle. (3) In contrast, the street price of oxycodone can be significantly higher.
Why Is Oxycodone Sold Illegally?
Despite this regulation, oxycodone is sometimes sold illegally on the street for a variety of reasons. One major reason is that some individuals who have developed an addiction to oxycodone or other opioids may seek out the drug outside of a legitimate medical setting to satisfy their cravings or avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Additionally, the high demand for opioids has led to a rise in illegal drug trafficking and the diversion of prescription medications from legitimate sources. Some individuals may obtain oxycodone through theft or other illegal means and then sell it on the street for a profit.
It’s important to note that buying or selling illegal drugs like oxycodone is dangerous, illegal, and can have serious consequences.
Counterfeit Oxycodone Pills
Counterfeit oxycodone pills are disguised as genuine oxycodone but actually contain dangerous and potentially lethal substances, such as fentanyl or other potent synthetic opioids. These fraudulent pills are often produced illicitly and sold on the street or online. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that can be up to 100 times more potent than morphine and can be lethal in even small doses. (4)
In recent years, the availability of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl has been linked to a rise in overdose deaths throughout the United States. Using counterfeit oxycodone pills is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious injury or death.
Oxycodone’s Street Value Compared to Common Opioids
Oxycodone’s street value can be significantly higher than that of other common opioids like hydrocodone and codeine. This is because oxycodone is perceived as being the superior drug due to its higher potency and potential for pain relief. That said, prices can still fluctuate based on supply and demand in a given area.
Importantly, heroin is an exception. Although it is more powerful than oxycodone, it tends to be less expensive, and its production costs are lower. Like other opioids, the price of heroin can vary widely depending on its location and its purity. In some areas, such as New York, a bag of heroin can be purchased for as little as $5 to $10. (5) Heroin is much more affordable for those who’ve become addicted to oxycodone via prescription and can no longer access or afford it.
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Dangers of Using Street Oxycodone Drugs
There are numerous dangers associated with using counterfeit or illegally obtained forms of oxycodone. Some oxycodone pills are products of drug diversion, such as those sold or stolen from individuals with legitimate prescriptions. Others are adulterated with other drugs or additives that are unknown to the user and can elicit unpredictable effects.
Several Potential Risks of Using Street Drugs Include:
Unknown Ingredients—The ingredients of street oxycodone may be unknown or dangerous, such as fentanyl or other opioids that can result in overdose and death.
Inconsistent Potency—The dosage and potency of street oxycodone can differ significantly from one batch to the next, making it challenging to determine the appropriate dosage.
Addiction—Oxycodone is highly addictive, and using it in any form can lead to dependence and addiction.
Health Risks—Use of illicit oxycodone can lead to a range of health complications, including respiratory depression, heart problems, liver and kidney damage, and infections from intravenous administration.
Legal Consequences—Illicit oxycodone use or possession is illegal and is punishable by arrest, legal action, and imprisonment.
Financial Costs—Using illicit oxycodone can be expensive and economically draining, leading to financial instability possibly compounded by job loss.
Social Consequences—Using street oxycodone can lead to damaged relationships, job loss, and social isolation.
Overall, using street oxycodone drugs is incredibly dangerous and can have serious consequences for an individual’s physical, mental, and social well-being. It’s essential to seek professional help and support to overcome addiction and find safe, effective treatment options.
Why To Seek Professional Help From Guardian Recovery
Guardian Recovery offers a range of therapeutic services to help individuals conquer addiction and maintain abstinence over the long-term.
Common Services Offered by Guardian Recovery Include:
Detox—Medical detox is a process used to eliminate toxic substances from a person’s system while they are monitored around the clock for complications. Medication for withdrawal symptoms is often administered to make the process safe and more comfortable.
Individual and Family Therapy—Evidence-based therapies help individuals address the root causes of addiction, develop coping skills, and work through emotional issues that may contribute to substance use.
Support Groups—12 Step support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous allow individuals to connect with others and share experiences while promoting honesty and accountability.
Medication-Assisted Treatment—The Federal Drug Administration has approved certain medications to help individuals manage cravings for opioids and reduce the risk of relapse. These include methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. (6)
Holistic Activities—Complementary and alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, yoga, or mindfulness meditation, are used to support overall wellness and promote stress reduction.
Aftercare Planning—These services help individuals transition back into the community after treatment. This can involve connecting individuals with community resources, like sober living homes or peer support groups, and developing relapse prevention strategies.
As an innovative, reputable, full-service addiction treatment center, Guardian Recovery aims to provide a supportive and structured environment and a full continuum of care to help individuals develop the skills they need to navigate life outside of substance misuse and replace destructive behaviors with those that are healthy and productive.
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Whether used as directed with a prescription or purchased on the street, oxycodone has the potential for misuse, dependence, and addiction. Among its many dangers, unregulated street versions can be adulterated with other drugs or toxic substances, such as fentanyl. If you are struggling with an oxycodone use disorder, you are urged to seek professional help before the condition worsens.
Guardian Recovery offers comprehensive programs and customized treatment plans featuring a wide range of evidence-based approaches and activities. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote on health insurance benefits and to learn more about our streamlined process. We are dedicated to helping individuals who need it most overcome addiction and sustain long-lasting sobriety. Reach out and speak to a Treatment Advisor to begin your recovery journey.
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Disclaimer: Does not guarantee specific treatment outcomes, as individual results may vary. Our services are not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis; please consult a qualified healthcare provider for such matters.
- https://drugfree.org/drug-and-alcohol-news/sky-high-prices-for-prescription-opioids-sold-on-street/
- https://money.cnn.com/2011/06/01/news/economy/prescription_drug_abuse/?section=money_latest
- https://www.goodrx.com/oxycodone
- https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/fentanyl
- https://theweek.com/articles/451688/why-heroin-cheap
- https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/information-about-medication-assisted-treatment-mat
