Oxycodone is a potent opioid medication used primarily for the management of moderate to severe pain. It belongs to the class of drugs known as opioid analgesics, derived from thebaine, an alkaloid found in the opium poppy. Oxycodone is available in various formulations, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, and oral solutions, allowing for flexible dosing options based on the patient's pain severity and needs.