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Updated: Feb 26, 2026

Osmotic Drug Delivery to Ischemic Hindlimbs and Perfusion of Vasculature with Microfil for Micro-Computed Tomography Imaging
Published on: June 29, 2013
Thrombotic microangiopathy associated with intravenous injection of extended-release oxycodone
Kate J Robson1, Danielle Clucas2, Robin Filshie3
1Department of Nephrology, Western Health, Melbourne, Australia.
Abstract:
We describe the case of a 35-year-old man presenting with thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) and renal impairment following, as he later disclosed, intravenous injection of oral formulation tamper-resistant extended-release oxycodone hydrochloride (Oxycontin). Recurrent misuse of this agent was associated with relapsing TMA despite treatment with terminal complement inhibitor eculizumab. Cases of TMA have been reported in the USA in association with intravenous misuse of extended-release oxymorphone (Opana ER) after the introduction of a new non-crushable formulation in 2012. There are two reported accounts of TMA associated with tamper-resistant Oxycontin, which became available in Australia in 2014. This is the first documented case in which eculizumab was used. This case illustrates the practical diagnostic challenges in identifying TMA disorders, and the importance of a detailed drug history. It also highlights the need to clarify what role, if any, eculizumab therapy has in cases of drug-associated TMA.
Insights
Intravenous misuse of extended-release oxycodone hydrochloride (Oxycontin) can cause thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). This case highlights diagnostic challenges and the potential role of eculizumab in managing drug-associated TMA.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Toxicology
- Hematology
Background:
- Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a serious condition.
- Intravenous misuse of extended-release medications poses unique risks.
- Tamper-resistant formulations may lead to novel routes of abuse.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old man developed TMA and renal impairment after injecting oral Oxycontin.
- The patient experienced relapsing TMA despite treatment with eculizumab.
- Previous cases of TMA linked to intravenous misuse of extended-release oxymorphone (Opana ER) and Oxycontin have been reported.
Findings:
- This is the first documented case of TMA associated with intravenous Oxycontin misuse where eculizumab was administered.
- Recurrent TMA was observed despite eculizumab treatment, suggesting limited efficacy in this context.
- Diagnostic challenges in identifying TMA disorders are highlighted.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the critical importance of obtaining a thorough drug history in patients presenting with TMA.
- Raises questions about the efficacy of eculizumab in managing drug-induced TMA.
- Underscores the need for further research into the mechanisms and management of TMA associated with prescription opioid misuse.
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