Important Note
The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
OXYCODONE SUSTAINED ACTION - ORAL
(ox-ee-KOH-doan)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Oxycontin
WARNING: Oxycodone is a narcotic pain reliever similar to morphine. It can be abused just as morphine can be abused. Sharing or misusing this drug is against the law. Oxycodone is indicated for the treatment of moderate or severe chronic pain. It is used on a regular basis, not just "as needed". The 80 and 160 mg tablets are reserved for those who are now taking moderate-to-large amounts of a potent narcotic (e.g., morphine). Use of these high strength tablets by someone who is not regularly taking narcotic medication can cause shallow, very slow breathing, which can be fatal. Swallow tablets whole. Tablets which are crushed or chewed can release possibly life-threatening amounts of oxycodone into your bloodstream.
Uses
This drug is used to relieve moderate-to-severe chronic pain. It is very beneficial for pain relief (e.g., cancer pain). Oxycontin is not used "as needed" for acute pain, nor is it indicated for acute pain after surgery.
How To Use
Take by mouth exactly as directed by your doctor. Take with food or milk to minimize or prevent stomach upset. Swallow tablet(s) whole. Do not crush or chew them. This drug is usually taken every 12 hours (2 times daily). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period of time, do not suddenly stop using this drug without your doctor's approval. Over time, this drug may not work as well as it did at the beginning. Consult your doctor if this medication isn't relieving the pain sufficiently.
Side Effects
May cause constipation, lightheadedness, stomach upset, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, and flushing. If these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: irregular heartbeat, anxiety, tremors, seizures. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, especially: severe diarrhea, stomach or intestinal disorders, breathing problems, kidney or liver disease, history of alcohol use, drug dependence, any allergies. Alcoholic beverages may increase the effects of this drug causing dizziness or lightheadedness. Limit alcohol intake. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug. The medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Oxycodone is excreted into breast milk. Though, to date, problems have not been reported in nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Before using this drug, tell your doctor of all the medications you may use, both prescription and nonprescription, especially: cimetidine, alcohol use. Tell your doctor if you take drugs that cause drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), other narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines or tricyclics), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, antihistamines that cause drowsiness (e.g., diphenhydramine). Many cough-and-cold preparations contain ingredients that may add to the drowsiness effects of oxycodone. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any such medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include cold and clammy skin, low body temperature, slowed breathing, slowed heartbeat, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, deep sleep, and loss of consciousness.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others. It is against the law.
Missed Dose
If you should miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.
