Oxycodone is a prescription opioid used to manage certain types of moderate to severe pain. Its effects can vary considerably from one person to another. Factors such as dosage, age, metabolism, other medications, medical conditions, and previous opioid exposure can all influence how oxycodone affects the body. Understanding these factors is important because oxycodone can cause drowsiness, dizziness, dependence, respiratory depression, and overdose. It should therefore be used only according to the instructions provided by a qualified healthcare professional.