Can I take Oxycodone and Pregabalin together?

Why this happens

Both medicines act as central nervous system (CNS) depressants. This means they both slow down brain activity and the signals that tell your body to breathe. When taken together, their effects add up (an additive effect), making the impact on your brain and lungs much stronger than if you took either medicine alone.

What you should do

You must only take these two medicines together if they have been specifically prescribed by the same doctor who is aware you are taking both. Your doctor should start you on the lowest possible doses and monitor you closely.

Seek emergency medical help immediately if you or someone taking these medicines experiences:

• Very slow or shallow breathing

• Extreme sleepiness or inability to stay awake

• Limp muscles or cold, clammy skin

• Pinpoint pupils

• A slow heartbeat or fainting

Important precautions

Mental health disorders

Pregabalin can cause suicidal thoughts or an urge to self-harm. You must seek medical help immediately if your mood changes or you have thoughts of hurting yourself.

Pregnancy

Pregabalin use during the first three months of pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects. Effective contraception must be used during treatment.

Opioid dependence/Addiction

Oxycodone is highly addictive. Long-term use can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly.

Drug dependence and withdrawal

Pregabalin carries a risk of dependence and addiction. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as this can cause severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures or anxiety.

Respiratory depression

Oxycodone can dangerously slow or stop your breathing, especially when first starting or if the dose is increased. This risk is much higher if taken with alcohol or other sedatives.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking these medicines. Both oxycodone and pregabalin cause drowsiness and dizziness; alcohol significantly increases these effects. Combining alcohol with these medicines can lead to dangerous breathing problems, extreme sleepiness, and loss of consciousness.

Grapefruit juice

Avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit while taking oxycodone. Grapefruit can increase the amount of oxycodone in your blood, which makes side effects like extreme sleepiness and slowed breathing more likely.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.