Oxycodone hydrochloride is an opioid pain reliever. It is an active ingredient in many different prescription medications. It is available by itself (in both short- and long-acting products) or in combination with other active ingredients.
Oxycodone is a narcotic and is a "controlled substance" in the United States.
Oxycodone has a significant potential for both psychological and physical dependence and abuse. In fact, it is classified as a controlled substance, meaning that there are special rules and regulations for prescribing and obtaining the medication. Because oxycodone can be a desirable drug of abuse, people often try to buy it through illegal means, such as from foreign countries or online sources that do not require a prescription. It is readily available and relatively inexpensive (at least in generic form), making it a popular drug of abuse.
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Oxycodone is a narcotic, opioid pain reliever. It binds to opioid receptors throughout the body and produces a number of different effects. These effects include, but are not limited to:
- Pain relief
- Cough suppression
- Decreased breathing (slow or shallow breathing)
- Certain changes in the circulatory system
- Slowing of the digestive tract
- Release of histamine (which often causes itching)
- Physical dependence.
Some general considerations include the following:
- Oxycodone medications come in tablet, capsule, liquid, or extended-release tablet forms. Oxycodone is available by itself or in combination with other pain medications. The particular directions for each product can vary substantially, so make sure to refer to the information for your specific oxycodone medication.
- When taking this product by mouth, it is probably best to take it with food, as it can be upsetting to the stomach.
- Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Do not increase your dose without your healthcare provider's approval. Do not suddenly stop taking oxycodone, especially if you have taken it regularly for more than several weeks (see Oxycodone Withdrawal).
The dosage that your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The particular oxycodone product
- The type and dose of other painkillers you have taken
- The type and severity of your pain
- How you respond to the medication
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Oxycodone
As with any medicine, oxycodone can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. Most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of oxycodone include, but are not limited to:
(Click Oxycodone Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Oxycodone?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
- A history of drug or alcohol dependence
- Liver disease, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatitis
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Gallbladder or pancreas disease
- Lung disease of any sort
- A head injury or high intracranial pressure
- Severe abdominal (stomach) pain
- An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
- Asthma
- Addison's disease
- An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hypertrophy, or BPH)
- Seizures or epilepsy
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
An overdose with oxycodone can be very dangerous. If you happen to overdose on this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Oxycodone Be Stored?
In general, this medication should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children. Because it can be a desirable drug of abuse, make sure to keep it in a safe place.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
Depending on the particular product, this medication is often prescribed "as needed," which means you do not need to take a dose if you do not feel pain. If you forget to take a dose of oxycodone and notice significant pain, take your missed dose right away. However, make sure to wait the recommended time before the next dose.
There are many different prescription oxycodone products available in several different forms
(see How Is Oxycodone Supplied? for more information).
Many (but not all) oxycodone products are available in generic form
(see Generic Oxycodone).
