Oxycontin, Roxicodone

GENERIC NAME: oxycodone

BRAND NAMES: Oxycontin, Roxicodone

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Oxycodone is a narcotic pain- reliever and cough suppressant similar to codeine and hydrocodone. The precise mechanism of pain relief by oxycodone and other narcotics is not known. Oxycodone was approved by the FDA in 1976. The combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen (Percocet) achieves greater pain relief than either of the component medications taken separately. (For more information, please visit the acetaminophen (Percocet) site.)

GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes (for regular tablets). No (for controlled release tablets).

PRESCRIPTION: yes

PREPARATIONS: Tablet (Roxicodone): 5mg oxycodone. Controlled release tablets (Oxycodone): 10, 20, or 40 mg.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature, sealed, light- resistant container.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Oxycodone is prescribed for the relief of moderate to moderately severe pain.

DOSING: The dose of oxycodone is adjusted to the needs of patients.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Oxycodone, like other narcotic pain-relievers, potentiates (increases) the effects of drugs that slow the brain's function, such as alcohol, barbiturates, skeletal muscle relaxants, for example, carisoprodol (Soma) and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), and benzodiazepines, for example, lorazepam (Ativan) and can lead to markedly-impaired brain function. Since oxycodone causes constipation itself, the use of antidiarrheals, for example, diphenoxylate (Lomotil) and loperamide (Imodium)] in persons taking oxycodone can lead to severe constipation and may also result in sedation. Cimetidine (Tagamet) increases the levels of oxycodone in the blood and can thereby cause confusion, disorientation, seizures or respiratory depression. PREGNANCY: There is very little information about the effects of oxycodone on the fetus. Physicians may use oxycodone in pregnant women it if its benefits are deemed to outweigh its potential and unknown risks.

NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known if oxycodone is secreted in breast milk.

SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequent adverse reactions of oxycodone include lightheadedness, dizziness, sedation, nausea, and vomiting. Other side effects include drowsiness, constipation, and spasm of the ureter, which can lead to difficulty in urinating.

Oxycodone can depress breathing, and is used with caution in elderly, debilitated patients and in patients with serious lung disease. Oxycodone can impair thinking and the physical abilities required for driving or operating machinery. Oxycodone may be habit forming. Mental and physical dependence can occur, but are unlikely when used for short-term pain relief.

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