Oxycodone is a medication used to manage severe pain when other treatments haven't worked well enough. It works by binding to specific receptors in the brain to help reduce the feeling of pain. You typically take it in tablet form, starting with a dose of 5 to 15 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed, and the maximum dose should be determined by your healthcare provider based on your response. It's important to know that oxycodone can cause serious breathing problems, especially when you first start taking it or if your dose is increased. Additionally, be cautious if you are taking benzodiazepines, as this combination can increase the risk of dangerous side effects.
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Uses
- Severe pain requiring an opioid analgesic.
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Dosage
Start with 5 to 15 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain.
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time.
Adjust the dose based on individual response.
Consider patient’s pain severity and previous treatments.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
nauseaconstipationvomitingheadacheitchinginsomniadizzinessweaknessdrowsinessaddiction
Serious
respiratory depressionoverdoseseizuresadrenal insufficiencysevere hypotension
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse leading to overdose and death.
- Life-threatening respiratory depression may occur, especially during dose increases.
- Accidental ingestion can be fatal, especially in children.
- Concomitant use with benzodiazepines or CNS depressants increases risk of sedation and respiratory issues.
- Pregnant women may risk Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome.
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Drug interactions
- CYP3A4 inhibitorsmay increase oxycodone levels and effectsCaution
- CYP3A4 inducersmay decrease oxycodone levels and effectivenessCaution
- Benzodiazepinesincreases risk of sedation and respiratory depressionMonitor
- Serotonergic drugsmay cause serotonin syndromeCaution
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)may cause severe opioid toxicity.Caution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
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Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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