Oxycontin Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
OxyContin, a brand name of time-released oxycodone, is a narcotic pain reliever that was approved by the FDA in 1995.[1] It is an opiate (narcotic) analgesic that is generally prescribed to treat the moderate to severe pain. It works by altering the function of the brain and the central nervous system. Typically, physicians will begin OxyContin treatment with a relatively small dose, and then increase the dosage as necessary. Over time, patients develop a tolerance for OxyContin, and the same amount will not stay effective.[2]
The most common potential OxyContin side effects are a heroin-like "high," constipation, nausea, reduced appetite, changes in mood and drowsiness. OxyContin, like all opiates, is addictive.[2]
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| Brand name for | Oxycodone[3] |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Purdue Pharma[3] |
| Uses | Narcotic pain reliever[3] |
| Common side effects | Euphoric side effect similar to that associated with heroin use, digestive difficulties, flushing, headache, weakness, fatal respiratory depression[3] |
| Who should not take Oxycontin | Individuals with prior allergic reaction to a narcotic medications or cough medicines that contain codeine, hydrocodone, or dihydrocodeine; those with a history of drug abuse or addiction.[2] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Common Oxycontin Side Effects
Among the most common OxyContin side effects are constipation, nausea, throwing up, reduced desire for food and drowsiness. Additional side effects are dizziness, itching, dry mouth, weakness, flushing, perspiration and small pupils. Potentially dangerous side effects include seizures, passing out, seeing or hearing things that do not really exist, and difficulty urinating. Patients experiencing these symptoms are advised to seek medical help.[2]
Another side effect of OxyContin is the euphoric effect is produces, similar to that of heroin.[4] This euphoric feeling can lead to OxyContin abuse. Abuse is signified when a drug tolerance develops, requiring that the individual take higher and higher doses for the same effects. Long term abuse of OxyContin leads to addiction and physical dependence. Once addicted, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms when the drug is no longer used. Withdrawal symptoms include insomnia, restlessness, involuntary leg movements, vomiting, and diarrhea.[2]
Drug Side Effects
OxyContin Abuse and Addiction
OxyContin is an opiate, a class of drugs that is highly abused and addictive.[5] Taken at therapeutic doses as prescribed, OxyContin addiction is less likely to occur.
Individuals with a personal or family history of drug abuse or addiction are at higher risk for OxyContin dependency or misuse. Prior to prescribing OxyContin, patients are generally assessed for the potential risk, and are routinely monitored throughout the course of treatment for signs of OxyContin addiction or abuse.[6]
OxyContin Allergic Reactions
Individuals who have had allergic reactions to other narcotic medications like morphine, methadone, Vicodin, Darvocet, Percocet, and Lortab, or to cough medications with codeine, hydrocodone, or dihydrocodeine, are generally allergic to OxyContin as well.[3] Allergy symptoms may include itching or facial swelling; unexplained rash, hives, welts or blisters; lightheadedness; difficulty breathing; joint pain; fever.
OxyContin Precautions and Warnings
- Taking large doses of OxyContin places individuals at risk of overdose. Doses of OxyContin higher than 40 milligrams are not recommended unless patients have built up a tolerance by taking this or similar drugs for an extended period of time and in relatively large quantities. Patients are advised not to break or crush tablets of OxyContin, and to always take the drug whole. Breaking up the drug can lead to overdose, which can be life-threatening.[2]
- Harmful reactions can occur when patients mix OxyContin with alcoholic beverages.[3]
- Taking OxyContin with certain other drugs, particularly other drugs with sedative qualities, can be dangerous. Patients are urged to discuss any additional medications with their doctors.[3]
- OxyContin may not be safe for use by pregnant women. Patients who are pregnant or may become pregnant are advised to consult a physician.[3]
- OxyContin is transferred through breast milk, and can harm nursing infants.[3]
- OxyContin patients may feel dizzy or pass out if they arise too rapidly from a reclining position. Getting up slowly can reduce this side effect.[2]
- It is possible to see OxyContin tablets in the stool; this is normal, and does not indicate that the drugs haven't been absorbed.[3]
Also See: Controlled Substances and Illegal Drugs, Morphine Coupons, Morphine Side Effects, Oxycodone Coupons, Oxycodone Side Effects, Oxycontin Patient Assistance Programs, Suboxone, Suboxone Side Effects, Suboxone Patient Assistance Programs, Percocet Side Effects, Vicodin Side Effects
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References
- ↑ http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d04110.pdf
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682132.html
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 http://www.purduepharma.com/pi/prescription/oxycontin.pdf
- ↑ http://www.justice.gov/ndic/pubs6/6025/index.htm
- ↑ http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsweek/Treating_opiate_addiction_Detoxification_and_maintenance.htm
- ↑ http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-2798-OxyContin+Oral.aspx?drugid=2798&drugname=OxyContin+Oral
