OXYCONTIN 15mg Tablets/Controlled-release

What is OXYCONTIN 15mg

OXYCONTIN 15mg is a prescription medication that contains Oxycodone Hydrochloride, a potent opioid analgesic used primarily to manage moderate to severe chronic pain when continuous pain relief is required over an extended period. It is formulated as a controlled-release tablet, which means the medication is released gradually over 12 hours to provide long-lasting pain control.

• Active Ingredient: Oxycodone HCl
• Dosage Form: Controlled-release tablets
• Strength: 15 mg
• Pack Size: 20 tablets (2 blisters of 10)
• Indicated For: Chronic pain not managed by non-opioid treatments

OXYCONTIN is part of a class of medications known as opioids (narcotic analgesics). It acts on the central nervous system to relieve pain and is intended for use in patients who require continuous, around-the-clock opioid treatment and for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.

How to use OXYCONTIN 15mg

To ensure both safety and effectiveness, OXYCONTIN 15mg should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Misuse can lead to addiction, overdose, or death, especially in children or individuals without opioid tolerance.

• Dosage Instructions: Usually taken every 12 hours (twice daily).
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablet, as doing so may result in a potentially fatal overdose.
• With or Without Food: Can be taken with or without food. Consistency in timing and food intake is recommended to maintain stable blood levels.
• Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not increase the dose or frequency on your own. Long-term use may require periodic dose adjustments based on your individual pain control and tolerability.

Mode of Action OXYCONTIN 15mg

Oxycodone HCl, the active component in OXYCONTIN 15mg, exerts its effects by acting on the central nervous system. Specifically, it binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, altering the perception and emotional response to pain.

• Receptor Binding: Binds primarily to mu-opioid receptors, but also has some activity at kappa and delta receptors.
• Pain Inhibition: Inhibits the transmission of pain signals by decreasing neurotransmitter release and neuronal excitability.
• Onset and Duration: The controlled-release formula begins acting within 1 hour and provides pain relief for up to 12 hours.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Can also cause sedation, euphoria, and respiratory depression, depending on the dose and individual sensitivity.

This dual mechanism (peripheral and central nervous system action) helps manage chronic pain more effectively than non-opioid analgesics. However, this potent action also comes with a higher risk for dependence and requires careful medical supervision.

OXYCONTIN 15mg Interactions OXYCONTIN 15mg

OXYCONTIN 15mg may interact with various medications and substances, potentially altering its effects or increasing the risk of adverse outcomes.

• CNS Depressants: Concomitant use with benzodiazepines, alcohol, sedatives, or antipsychotics may lead to profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, or death.
• MAO Inhibitors: Use within 14 days of MAOIs (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine) can cause serotonin syndrome or hypertensive crisis.
• CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Drugs like ketoconazole or erythromycin may increase oxycodone levels, enhancing its effects and toxicity.
• CYP3A4 Inducers: Rifampin, carbamazepine, or phenytoin may decrease effectiveness by speeding up metabolism.
• Serotonergic Drugs: Combining with SSRIs, SNRIs, or triptans may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

It’s critical to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking. Monitoring and dose adjustments may be required to avoid potentially dangerous interactions.

Dosage of OXYCONTIN 15mg

Dosage must be individualized, taking into account the patient’s severity of pain, previous analgesic treatment experience, and risk factors for addiction or abuse.

• Starting Dose (Opioid-Naïve Patients): Typically not recommended as an initial opioid unless the patient is opioid-tolerant. Lower doses (e.g., 10 mg) may be preferred.
• Maintenance Dose: 15 mg every 12 hours may be used for patients who are already opioid-tolerant or require more substantial pain control.
• Dose Adjustments: May be adjusted every 1–2 days depending on pain control and tolerability.
• Maximum Dose: No absolute maximum; based on individual response, side effects, and previous opioid exposure.

OXYCONTIN should be prescribed as part of a comprehensive pain management plan, including physical therapy or psychological support when appropriate. Do not stop abruptly; tapering may be necessary to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Possible side effects of OXYCONTIN 15mg

Like all opioids, OXYCONTIN may cause side effects, ranging from mild to serious. Many side effects are dose-dependent and may decrease with continued use.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Constipation
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Itching or sweating
• Serious Side Effects:
  • Respiratory depression (life-threatening)
  • Severe hypotension
  • Adrenal insufficiency
  • Seizures (rare)
  • Dependence and withdrawal symptoms
• Allergic Reactions: Rash, swelling, or anaphylaxis in rare cases

Patients should contact their doctor immediately if they experience symptoms of overdose (slow breathing, extreme drowsiness, pinpoint pupils) or allergic reactions. Side effects should be monitored and managed proactively to prevent complications.

OXYCONTIN 15mg Contraindications OXYCONTIN 15mg

OXYCONTIN 15mg is contraindicated in certain patient populations due to the risk of severe or fatal complications.

• Severe Respiratory Depression: Especially in unmonitored settings or without resuscitative equipment.
• Acute or Severe Bronchial Asthma: In absence of mechanical ventilation.
• Paralytic Ileus: Including both known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction.
• Known Hypersensitivity: To oxycodone or any component of the formulation.
• Patients without Opioid Tolerance: High risk of overdose or respiratory compromise.

Additionally, caution should be used in patients with head injuries, hepatic or renal impairment, or a history of substance abuse. A thorough patient history and clinical evaluation are essential prior to prescribing this medication.

Storage of OXYCONTIN 15mg

Proper storage of OXYCONTIN 15mg is essential to ensure the medication maintains its potency and to prevent misuse or accidental ingestion, especially by children.

• Temperature: Store at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Humidity: Keep in a dry place away from moisture and humidity.
• Light: Protect from direct light and keep in the original packaging until use.
• Security: Store in a locked cabinet or secure location, out of reach of children, pets, and others who may misuse it.
• Disposal: Unused or expired tablets should be disposed of through a drug take-back program or per pharmacist instructions. Do not flush or throw in the trash unless instructed.

Failure to store opioids securely can lead to accidental poisonings or contribute to the public health issue of opioid misuse and diversion. Always follow proper medication safety practices.