| What is Oxycontin?
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Oxycontin is prescribed for moderate to severe pain when continuous, around-the-clock relief is needed for an extended period of time. |
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| Are there any side effects associated with Oxycontin?
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Oxycontin side effects may include constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, itching, nausea, sweating, vomiting,
and weakness.
If the side effects continue or are bothersome, check with
your doctor. Less common Oxycontin side effects may include abdominal pain, abnormal dreams, abnormal thoughts, anxiety, chills, confusion, diarrhea, dizziness upon first standing up, excessively high spirits, fever, hiccups, indigestion, insomnia, loss of appetite, nervousness, rash, stomach pain, shortness of breath,
and twitching. Rare Oxycontin side effects may include abnormal gait, accidental injury, agitation, amnesia, burping, chest pain, cough, decreased sexual drive, dehydration, depression, difficulty swallowing, diminished muscle tone, diminished sensitivity, dry or inflamed skin, emotional instability, fainting, gas, generally ill feeling, hallucinations, hives, impotence, increased appetite, intestinal obstruction, lack of menstruation, loss of identity, migraine, neck pain,
overactivity, pain, ringing in the ears, seizures, sore throat, speech disorder, stomach problems, stupor, swollen arms and legs, swollen face or mouth, swollen lymph nodes, taste changes, thirst, tingling, tremor, urinary
problems, vertigo, vision changes, voice changes, and vomiting. |
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| How is Oxycontin taken?
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Follow the directions for taking Oxycontin provided by your doctor. It is important to take
Oxycontin on a regular basis, every 12 hours, in exactly the dose prescribed. This drug is not intended for occasional "as needed" use, and should never be taken more often than directed. If you suffer episodes of increased pain, check with your doctor; do not change the dosage on your own.
If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule.
Do not take two doses at once. |
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| Are there any effects of taking Oxycontin with other medications?
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Some medicines may interact with Oxycontin. Inform your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.
While using Oxycontin, check with your doctor before taking any other drugs that slow the nervous system. The combined effect can impair breathing, reduce blood pressure, and lead to coma. Drugs in this category include
antipsychotic drugs, muscle relaxants, narcotic painkillers, sleep aids,
sleep-inducing antihistamines, tranquilizers, and alcoholic beverages. If you are already taking such drugs, your starting dose of
Oxycontin will be reduced by at least half. Certain other painkillers can reduce
Oxycontin's effect, or even cause withdrawal symptoms. Caution is necessary when combining
Oxycontin with drugs such as butorphanol, nalbuphine, and pentazocine. |
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| How should I store Oxycontin?
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Store Oxycontin at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from heat and light. |
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Return to health network. |
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