Oxycontin

oxycontin 80 mg

This medication is used to treat severe chronic pain (such as due to cancer). Oxycodone belongs to the opioid analgesics class of drugs. It changes how your body feels and responds to pain by acting on the brain. The higher strengths of this drug (more than 40 milligrams per tablet) should be used only if you have been taking moderate to high doses of opioid pain medication on a regular basis. If taken by someone who hasn’t been taking opioids regularly, these strengths can lead to overdose (and even death). Use the extended-release form of oxycodone only for minor pain that will go away in a few days. This medication should not be used on an as-needed basis. 80 mg oxycontin

How to Use Oxycontin

Each time you get a refill, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you begin taking extended-release oxycodone. If you have any concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication on a regular basis, as directed by your doctor, rather than only when you are experiencing severe (breakthrough) pain. Take this medication with or without food every 12 hours. If you have nausea, taking this medication with food may help. Inquire with your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to reduce nausea (such as lying down for 1 to 2 hours with as little head movement as possible). Consult your doctor if the nausea persists.

Take the tablets whole. The tablets should not be broken, crushed, chewed, or dissolved. This can cause all of the drugs to be released at once, increasing the risk of oxycodone overdose. 80 mg oxycontin

If your dose calls for more than one tablet, take only one at a time to reduce the risk of choking or difficulty swallowing. Before putting the tablet in your mouth, do not soak, lick, or wet it. Drink enough water with each tablet to completely dissolve it.

If your doctor or pharmacist says you can, avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medication. Grapefruit can increase the likelihood of side effects when taking this medication.

The dosage is determined by your medical condition as well as your response to treatment. Do not take the medication more frequently or for a longer period of time than prescribed. When instructed, discontinue the medication.

Adverse Effects

It is possible to experience nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, weakness, sweating, lightheadedness, dizziness, or drowsiness. Some of these side effects may go away after a while of using this medication. Inform your doctor or pharmacist right away if any of these side effects persist or worsen.

Consume dietary fiber, drink plenty of water, and exercise to avoid constipation. You may also require the use of a laxative. Consult your pharmacist to determine which type of laxative is best for you.

Get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position to reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness.

On your stool, you may notice an empty tablet shell. Because your body has already absorbed the medication, this is completely safe.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you outweighs the risk of side effects. Many people who take this medication have no serious side effects.

Inform your doctor right away if you experience any serious side effects, such as sleep apnea, mental/mood changes (such as agitation, confusion, or hallucinations), severe stomach/abdominal pain, difficulty urinating, or signs that your adrenal glands are not functioning properly (such as loss of appetite, unusual tiredness, weight loss).

If you experience any extremely serious side effects, such as fainting, seizure, slow/shallow breathing, or severe drowsiness/difficulty waking up, seek medical attention immediately.

It is uncommon for this drug to cause a severe allergic reaction. However, if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as a rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.