Oxycodone 80mg is a potent prescription opioid analgesic used to manage severe pain that requires continuous, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatments are inadequate. It is a controlled-release formulation designed to provide prolonged pain relief.

Uses

• Severe Pain Management: Oxycodone 80mg is prescribed for the relief of severe pain that cannot be controlled by other pain medications. It is often used in patients with chronic pain conditions, such as cancer pain, where continuous opioid analgesia is necessary.

Mechanism of Action

• Oxycodone: Oxycodone is a full opioid agonist that binds to the mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, altering the perception and response to pain. Its controlled-release formulation ensures that the medication is released slowly over time, providing extended pain relief.

Dosage and Administration

• Administration: Oxycodone 80mg tablets are typically taken every 12 hours, with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole to avoid rapid release and absorption of a potentially fatal dose of oxycodone.
• Dosage Adjustments: Dosage should be individualized based on the patient’s previous analgesic treatment experience, the severity of pain, and the patient’s overall condition. The goal is to find the lowest effective dose that provides adequate pain relief.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Itching

Serious side effects (requiring medical attention):

• Respiratory depression
• Severe hypotension
• Seizures
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Androgen deficiency

Warnings and Precautions

• Addiction and Abuse: Oxycodone has a high potential for addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death.
• Respiratory Depression: Life-threatening respiratory depression is a significant risk, especially during initiation and dosage increases.
• Interactions with Other CNS Depressants: Combining oxycodone with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants can increase the risk of severe sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death.
• Accidental Ingestion: Accidental ingestion, especially in children, can result in a fatal overdose.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome. Oxycodone can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby.

Drug Interactions

• CNS Depressants: Concurrent use with other CNS depressants can enhance the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of oxycodone.
• Cytochrome P450 Interactions: Oxycodone is metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 enzymes. Inhibitors of these enzymes can increase oxycodone levels, while inducers can decrease its effectiveness.

Storage

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Secure storage is crucial to prevent misuse or accidental ingestion.

Disposal

• Follow local guidelines for disposing of prescription medications.
• Dispose of unused oxycodone by taking it to a drug take-back program or flushing it down the toilet if no take-back options are available (check local recommendations for specific guidelines).

Oxycodone 80mg should be used under strict medical supervision, with careful monitoring for any adverse effects or signs of misuse. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and not to make any changes without consulting a healthcare provider. The use of oxycodone should be part of a comprehensive pain management plan that includes non-pharmacologic therapies and other medications as appropriate.