Main info about Oxycodone
Oxycodone is a synthetic medication, which is used for eliminating pain (moderate and severe).
Oxycodone belongs to the class of opioid medications.
Patients can get Oxycodone in the immediate-release or extended-release formulations. The XR capsules are not suitable for a short-term decrease of pain.
Warnings
Your current health state indicates if this medicine is suitable for you. For example, people with breathing issues (severe asthma, etc) or blockage in the stomach cannot take this drug.
Any improper use of opioids may lead to dangerous results and impact your health. Store your meds in a place where no one can find them.
During pregnancy, any kind of treatment with opioids should be avoided.
Some patients (elderly and ill) may experience difficulties breathing. Oxycodone can slow or even stop the breathing of any patient.
Practical info before the start of treatment
Oxycodone exists in multiple forms and is sold under many brand names. Despite being the same drug, all these variations differ. For example, most of them are not approved for underage patients.
Talk to your doctor to define the best suitable solution. Don’t forget to mention if you have/had one of the following conditions:
- respiratory problems;
- seizures;
- history of drug or alcohol addiction;
- mental disorders;
- lung, liver, or kidney diseases;
- adrenal disease;
- problems with urination;
- problems with your pancreas.
OUD (opioids during pregnancy) is not the best idea. Long-term use is linked to withdrawal symptoms in the baby. As a result, such a newborn will require close medical supervision in the first few weeks after being born. Your doctor should determine the best possible way to treat you during this period.
If you find out about your pregnancy during the treatment, make sure to immediately discuss this situation with your medical advisor. Do not stop taking Oxycodone abruptly. The doctor may lower the usual dosage to minimize the negative effects.
What is the safe way to take Oxycodone?
When it comes to the prescription drug, it’s always necessary to follow the instructions provided on the leaflet, prescription label and given by the doctor. Avoid any kind of self-treatment.
The medicine can be taken with food.
Be sure to follow these simple rules:
- Swallow the whole tablet or capsule.
- Don’t break or chew the pill. Don’t open the capsule.
- If it’s impossible to take the medicine without breaking it, open the XR capsule and add the contents to the spoon with some jelly-like food (applesauce or pudding are the best options). Swallow the mixture without chewing.
The treatment with Oxycodone should never end suddenly. Your doctor may prescribe lower and lower dosages to help you prevent withdrawal effects.
Avoid these things during treatment with Oxycodone
Alcoholic beverages are prohibited throughout the entire course of treatment. Mixing alcohol with opioids may lead to intense side effects and even death.
The medicine can result in sleepiness or feeling lightheaded. In this case, don’t drive or use dangerous tools until you get better.
Always check if you are buying the prescribed version of Oxycodone. Sometimes, there may be mistakes in pharmacies that could lead to unwanted results.
About side effects of Oxycodone
The list of potential side effects is quite impressive – it’s hard to foresee how the body would react. Every patient can experience different unpleasant effects. That is why be sure to contact your doctor if any of these unpleasant conditions start bothering you.
Some of the serious problems related to the treatment with Oxycodone may include slow breathing with long pauses or the inability to wake up quickly.
When planning to have a baby you should know that long-term treatment may influence your ability to conceive. This applies both to men and women. However, it’s not proven that Oxycodone has a permanent negative effect on fertility.
Some of the mildest and not dangerous side effects of Oxycodone are:
- feeling tired, sleepy, or lightheaded;
- migraines;
- issues with stomach (include stomachache, sickness, vomiting, and constipation);
- itching or flushing.
How does Oxycodone interact with the drugs?
Knowing how two or more meds interact with each other is a crucial moment in your treatment. Tell your doctor about every drug you are using at the moment so he can find the best solution for your case.
Don’t omit so-called “innocent” medications – vitamins, supplements, or herbs. They all may create a dangerous mixture with Oxycodone. The same is for over-the-counter and prescription drugs.
Opioids can be quite harmful so a proper combination of all meds should remain the main priority for you. If you take blood pressure medication, sleeping pills, sedatives, antidepressants, antibiotics, and other serious medicines, you should notify your doctor right away.
The list of medications can go on and on – that is why discuss the treatment process and all potential dangers with your doctor.