OxyContin tablets are a controlled-release formulation intended for use in patients who need management of moderate to severe pain on a 24-hour, round-the-clock period of time. This medication is not for use as a PRN or as needed analgesic.
OxyContin Prescribed Dosage and Strengths
OxyContin tablets are supplied in 10mg, 15mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg, 60mg, 80mg, and 160mg strengths to be take in tablet form by mouth. Tablets are to be taken on an every 12-hour schedule. Physicians will determine the strength needed in order to control the pain.
Never break, chew, or crush any OxyContin tablets. This will eliminate the controlled delivery mechanism and result in rapid release and absorption of the medicine into the body system and can result in a fatal overdose of oxycodone
Side Effects from OxyContin
OxyContin can produce common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, dry mouth, sweating, itching, tired feeling, headache, and dizziness.
Get emergency treatment if suffering from an allergic reaction to OxyContin. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or throat. Notify a physician immediately if development of shallow breathing, seizures, slow heartbeat, confusion, cold clammy skin, severe weakness, fainting, severe dizziness, or feeling light-headed.
Risk of OxyContin Abuse and Addiction
Narcotic painkillers, such as Oxycontin, have a high risk of abuse or addiction due to the habit forming nature of the medication.
According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the generic version of OxyContin poses more of a risk for abuse because the only dose available is in an 80mg version. Users may believe they are taking a smaller dose which increases the risk of serious overdose or even death.
Always keep prescribed Oxycontin medication in a safe secure place to protect from theft. Never allow anyone else to take this medicine. Giving away or selling Oxycontin is not only dangerous but it is against the law.
OxyContin Withdrawal SymptomsSymptoms of withdrawal from Oxycontin can begin as soon as six hours from the last dose and can last up to a week or longer, depending on the individual patient. Symptoms can include yawning, depression, fatigue, cold or hot sweats, heart palpitations, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, diarrhea, watery eyes, and coughing.
OxyContin withdrawal symptoms are intense and have been compared to the withdrawal of heroin. Patients are encouraged to seek help for withdrawal from trained professionals.
Considerations Regarding OxyContin
Do not take OxyContin is the pain is mild or the physician did not prescribe it to the patient. Do not use this medication if suffering from severe asthma or severe lung problems. If a patient has had a severe allergic reaction to codeine, hydrocodone, oxycodone, or dihydrocodeine, they should not take OxyContin. If Oxycontin has never been taken before, do not take it if surgery has been done in less than 12 to 24 hours ago.
Inform the prescribing doctor about all other medications that are being taken before taking Oxycontin. Certain medications such as other narcotic pain medicines, tranquilizers, muscle relaxers, and sedatives can result in dangerous side effects.
Always take OxyContin with a full glass of water. Continue to drink plenty of water to help prevent constipation while on OxyContin. Do not stop using OxyContin at once, as it could result in withdrawal symptoms. Discuss this with the physician before stopping this medication.
References:
1. Drugs.com, "Full Product Information" (accessed February 23, 2010)
2. Justice.gov/dea, "OxyContin Facts" (accessed February 23, 2010)
Sandra Blake - Sandra resides in Ohio. She attended the Academy of Health Sciences and Columbus State. She has years of experience in health information ...
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