SAN DIEGO -- Authorities announced Monday a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of a man who robbed a North Park drugstore, stealing bottles of OxyContin instead of cash.

The bandit, a heavyset man who appeared to be in his mid-40s, entered Walgreens in the 3200 block of University Avenue about 5:30 a.m. Thursday and bought a bottle of cough medicine before handing the pharmacist a note demanding the powerful pain pills, according to San Diego police.

During the robbery, the man reached toward his waistband as if going for a gun. After the victim handed over an undisclosed amount of OxyContin, the crook left the store and walked out of the area to the east.

He was described as white or Hispanic and about 5 feet 10 inches tall. He had a "salt and pepper" beard and was wearing blue jeans, a black jacket with the letters "TRD" in red on the chest, black sneakers and a gray baseball cap with a black logo on the right-hand side.

Anyone with information on the robber's identity or whereabouts was asked to contact San Diego County Crime Stoppers, which is offering the cash reward.

The nonprofit agency's tip service can be reached at 888-580-8477. Callers may remain anonymous.