Oxycodone for pain relief

About oxycodone

What is oxycodone used for?

Oxycodone is a strong opioid painkiller that is used to treat severe pain. It is used in particular to treat pain after a surgical operation and pain caused by cancer.

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.

Side effects of oxycodone

Common side effects of oxycodone include:

• Feeling sick.

• Being sick (vomiting).

• Indigestion.

• Stomach (abdominal) pain.

• Feeling dizzy.

• Feeling sleepy or drowsy.

• Constipation.

• Diarrhoea.

• Dry mouth.

You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to manage oxycodone side effects

Who should not take oxycodone?

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

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby, or breastfeeding.

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

• If you have prostate problems or any difficulties passing urine.

• If you have any breathing problems, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

• If you have a sleep-related breathing problem such as sleep apnoea.

• If you have been told you have low blood pressure (hypotension).

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

• If you have epilepsy.

• If you have a problem with your bile duct.

• If you have been constipated for more than a week or have an inflammatory bowel problem.

• If you have a condition causing muscle weakness, called myasthenia gravis.

• If you have a rare blood disorder called porphyria.

• If you have recently had a severe head injury.

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

• If you have ever been dependent on drugs or alcohol.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take oxycodone

• 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.

• If you miss a dose, check the leaflet for advice. Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• 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.

How to store oxycodone

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

• 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.

Important information about all medicines

Frequently asked questions

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.