Oxycodone was known back in 1916 according to my 1983 Merck Index, which describes it as addictive.
The Sacklers made a steady release product which enabled more continuous and effective pain relief - and made billions.
It was known within a couple of years that people were crushing the pills for an instant high. It was also known that people were selling the pills they were prescribed.
Of course there is a legitimate role for opioids in the treatment of both acute and chronic pain, but it was way over prescribed - 30 pills to take home post surgery. 30 pills for a kid with a sprain - don’t miss next weekend’s game. No counselling about the risks. And then the pill mills.
The American Indians haven’t adapted well to alcohol in 300 years. Who knows how long it will be until nearly everyone can take it or leave it when it comes to opioids.