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New Oxycodone Pill Designed To Prevent Abuse

By Lynne Adkins

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) --- The FDA has approved an oxycodone pill designed to deter abuse.

The oxycodone pill contains Naloxone, which is used to reverse the effects of an overdose.

Dr. Daniel Hussar, Professor of Pharmacy at the University of the Sciences says the pill attacks pain when swallowed as prescribed, but if the user snorts or injects it, the naloxone will take effect.

Hussar Daniel
Dr. Daniel Hussar, Professor of Pharmacy at the University of the Sciences. (Photo provided by the University of the Sciences.)

"When it gets into the system at the same time as the oxycodone, it will block the effect of the oxycodone, and those abusing the product will not derive the same high that they otherwise might," he said.

The new formula will only be available in the longer lasting medication often taken by cancer patients.

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