Schedule II provides the maximum amount of control possible under the CSA for approved drug products.

In recent months, there have been numerous reports of OxyContin diversion and abuse in several states. Some of these reported cases have been associated with serious consequences including death. In an effort to educate health care providers about these risks, Purdue Pharmaceuticals, manufacturer of the product, has issued a warning in the form of a "Dear Healthcare Professional" letter. The "Dear Healthcare Professional" letter will be distributed widely to physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. The letter explains the changes to the labeling including proper prescribing information and highlights the problems associated with the abuse and diversion of OxyContin.

OxyContin, like morphine, has a high potential for abuse. It is supplied in a controlled-release dosage form and is intended to provide up to 12 hours of relief from moderate to severe pain. The tablet must be taken whole and only by mouth. When the tablet is crushed and its contents are injected intravenously or snorted into the nostrils, the controlled release mechanism is defeated and a potentially lethal dose of oxycodone is released immediately.

Source: The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)