Kadian is a prescription medication that is used for the relief of moderate to severe pain. This eMedTV resource explains how Kadian works, describes its effects, offers dosing information for the drug, and lists side effects that may occur.
Common Kadian side effects may include anxiety, dizziness, and drowsiness. This eMedTV segment also lists some of the less common side effects of Kadian and explains which side effects are potentially serious and require immediate medical attention.
The majority of people who take Kadian will develop constipation to some degree. This part of the eMedTV site further discusses the link between Kadian and constipation, and explains what you can do to help prevent this side effect before it occurs.
Kadian is used for the treatment of moderate to severe chronic pain. This article from the eMedTV archives discusses Kadian uses in more detail, describes how the drug works, and explains whether it can be used in children.
Your Kadian dosage will depend mostly on the dosage and type of painkillers you were previously taking. This eMedTV resource further explains how Kadian dosing is determined and offers important precautions and tips for taking this medication.
Medicines that may cause Kadian drug interactions include antihistamines, diuretics, and muscle relaxants. This eMedTV page lists other drugs that can interact with Kadian and explains what problems may occur if these drugs are taken together.
Talk to your doctor before using Kadian if you have a history of drug or alcohol dependence. This eMedTV segment includes other Kadian warnings and precautions and also provides important information on who should not use this narcotic.
Chewing, crushing, dissolving, snorting, or injecting Kadian can easily result in an overdose. As this eMedTV Web page explains, a Kadian overdose can be very dangerous and may result in a slow heart rate, fluid in the lungs, or even death.
Kadian should only be used during pregnancy if the benefits outweigh any potential risks. As this eMedTV page explains, animal studies on Kadian and pregnancy show that the drug may cause birth defects and encephalopathy (brain disease or injury).
The manufacturer of Kadian does not recommend breastfeeding while using this drug. This eMedTV resource provides more information on Kadian and breastfeeding, and describes the problems that may occur if the drug passes through breast milk.
The earliest predictable date that generic Kadian could become available is March 2010. This eMedTV article explores the potential dangers of buying so-called "generic Kadian" products that are currently available on the market.
There are strict penalties and fines for using or trying to buy Kadian without a prescription. This eMedTV segment explores the dangers of buying Kadian without a prescription and briefly discusses the risk of Kadian abuse or addiction.
The physical effects of Kadian abuse can be dangerous and may include breathing problems or coma. This eMedTV article further explores the physical, emotional, and social consequences of Kadian abuse and explains where you can get help.
Vomiting, backache, and diarrhea are potential Kadian withdrawal symptoms. This article from the eMedTV library lists other possible withdrawal symptoms and explains whether a withdrawal from Kadian is likely to cause life-threatening symptoms.