Oxycodone for pain relief

About oxycodone

Oxycodone is a analgésico opioide fuerte that is used to treat severe pain. It is used in particular to treat pain after a surgical operation and pain caused by cáncer.

It works on your nervous system and brain to reduce the amount of pain you feel.

What is oxycodone available as?

Oxycodone is available in several forms, including:

• Capsules or a liquid, taken by the mouth.

• Slow-release tablets.

• Injection.

Oxycodone is sometimes used in combination with another medicine called naloxone (in a brand called Targinact®). The naloxone helps to reduce some of the side effects of oxycodone, such as constipation.

Common side effects of oxycodone include:

• Náuseas.

• Estar enfermo (vómitos).

• Indigestión.

• Stomach (abdominal) pain.

• Sentirse mareado.

• Sintiéndose somnoliento o adormilado.

• Estreñimiento.

• Diarrea.

• Boca seca.

Encontrará una lista completa en el prospecto del fabricante que se suministra con su medicamento.

Los efectos no deseados a menudo mejoran a medida que su cuerpo se adapta al nuevo medicamento, pero hable con su médico o farmacéutico si algún efecto secundario persiste o se vuelve problemático.

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions. Before taking oxycodone it is important that your doctor knows:

• Si estás embarazada, intentando concebir o amamantando.

• If you have heart, liver, or kidney problems.

• Si tienes problemas de próstata o alguna dificultad para orinar.

• Si tienes algún problema respiratorio, como asma o enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC).

• If you have a sleep-related breathing problem such as apnea del sueño.

• Si te han dicho que tienes baja presión arterial (hipotensión).

• If you have any problems with your thyroid, pancreas, or adrenal glands.

• Si tienes epilepsia.

• Si tienes un problema con tu conducto biliar.

• Si has estado estreñido por más de una semana o tienes un problema inflamatorio intestinal.

• Si tienes una condición que causa debilidad muscular, llamada miastenia gravis.

• If you have a rare blood disorder called porfiria.

• Si recientemente has tenido una lesión grave en la cabeza.

• If you have ever had a mental health problem called psicosis.

• Si alguna vez has sido dependiente de las drogas o el alcohol.

• Si alguna vez has tenido una reacción alérgica a un medicamento.

• Si está tomando otros medicamentos. Esto incluye cualquier medicamento que esté tomando y que esté disponible para comprar sin receta, así como medicamentos herbales y complementarios.

• Read the leaflet inside the pack before you start. It explains your oxycodone brand and possible side effects.

• Take oxycodone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. You may be told to take it regularly or only when needed.

• Quick-acting capsules or liquid are usually taken every 4-6 hours.

• Slow-release tablets are taken twice a day, 12 hours apart.

• Swallow slow-release tablets whole with water. Do not break, crush, or chew them.

• You can take oxycodone with or without food.

• Si olvida una dosis, consulte el prospecto para obtener consejos. No tome dos dosis juntas para compensar una dosis olvidada.

• Ask your doctor about alcohol. You may be advised not to drink while taking oxycodone, as alcohol can increase side effects such as dizziness and sleepiness.

• Oxycodone can affect driving. Do not drive if you feel drowsy, dizzy, or unable to concentrate. It is an offence to drive if your reactions are impaired.

• If you do drive, carry proof that oxycodone has been prescribed for you (such as a prescription slip or patient leaflet).

• Oxycodone comes in different brands and strengths. Check each prescription to make sure it is what you expect, and ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

• Tell healthcare professionals, including dentists, that you are taking oxycodone before any treatment or surgery.

• Check with a pharmacist before taking any other medicines, including those bought without a prescription. Some medicines can increase side effects when taken with oxycodone.

• If travelling abroad, carry a letter from your doctor, as oxycodone is a controlled medicine and may be restricted in some countries.

• Only take oxycodone for as long as prescribed. Taking it for longer can lead to dependence.

• Stopping oxycodone suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as restlessness or irritability. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.

• Mantenga todos los medicamentos fuera del alcance y la vista de los niños.

• Almacenar en un lugar fresco y seco, lejos del calor y la luz directos.

• Many liquid preparations of oxycodone only keep for a few weeks once the bottle has been opened. Check the label for further details and write on it the date you open the bottle.

How long does it take for oxycodone to work?

Quick-acting oxycodone usually starts to work within 30 to 60 minutes with pain relief lasting around 4 to 6 hours. Slow-release oxycodone can take 1-2 days to work but provides longer-lasting pain relief when taken regularly.

Is it safe to take oxycodone during pregnancy?

Oxycodone is not usually recommended during pregnancy as regular use during pregnancy may affect the baby and can cause withdrawal symptoms after birth.

Always let your doctor or midwife know if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before taking oxycodone.

Can you drink while on oxycodone?

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking oxycodone. Alcohol increases the risk of serious side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, slowed breathing, and impaired judgement.

Is oxycodone addictive?

Yes, oxycodone can be addictive if taken regularly or for long periods. Your body can become dependent on it, and stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms.

For this reason, oxycodone is usually prescribed at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible.