OXYCONTIN 30mg Tablets/Controlled-release

What is OXYCONTIN 30mg

OXYCONTIN 30mg is a prescription opioid analgesic that contains the active ingredient Oxycodone Hydrochloride. It is formulated as a controlled-release tablet, designed to provide consistent, long-lasting pain relief over a 12-hour period. This medication is typically prescribed for patients who require continuous, around-the-clock management of moderate to severe pain—especially when other treatments are ineffective or not tolerated.

• Generic Name: Oxycodone Hydrochloride
• Brand Name: OXYCONTIN
• Form: Oral controlled-release tablets
• Strength: 30 mg per tablet
• Packaging: 20 tablets (10s Blister × 2)

Due to its high potency and potential for dependence and abuse, OXYCONTIN 30mg is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. It should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider with expertise in pain management and opioid therapy. It is not appropriate for use in opioid-naïve patients or for short-term pain relief.

How to use OXYCONTIN 30mg

OXYCONTIN 30mg must be taken exactly as prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider. Its controlled-release mechanism is intended to provide 12-hour pain control, making strict adherence to the dosing schedule critical for both effectiveness and safety.

• Route of Administration: Oral only
• Dosing Schedule: Every 12 hours (twice daily)
• Administration Instructions:
  • Swallow the tablet whole with water.
  • Do not break, crush, chew, or dissolve the tablet.
  • Can be taken with or without food, but consistency is recommended.
• Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless it's near the time for the next dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Discontinuation: Do not stop abruptly. Taper the dose under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Patients should avoid alcohol and sedative medications while taking OXYCONTIN 30mg. Regular monitoring is essential to evaluate pain control and adjust dosage accordingly. Keep in mind, misuse of this medication can result in life-threatening respiratory depression, overdose, or death.

Mode of Action OXYCONTIN 30mg

OXYCONTIN 30mg works by targeting specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord that are involved in the perception of pain. Its primary mechanism of action is mediated through mu-opioid receptor agonism.

• Mu-Opioid Receptor Activation: Oxycodone binds to mu-opioid receptors, inhibiting the transmission of pain signals in the central nervous system (CNS).
• Inhibition of Neurotransmitter Release: Reduces the release of pain-related neurotransmitters such as substance P and glutamate.
• Controlled-Release Matrix: The tablet's special formulation releases oxycodone gradually over 12 hours, maintaining consistent blood levels.
• Onset and Duration:
  • Onset: Approximately 1 hour after ingestion
  • Duration: Up to 12 hours per dose

By maintaining stable plasma concentrations, OXYCONTIN reduces the frequency of dosing and avoids peaks and troughs associated with immediate-release opioids. However, its action on CNS receptors also affects respiratory function, mood, and gastrointestinal motility—necessitating careful monitoring, especially at higher doses like 30mg.

OXYCONTIN 30mg Interactions OXYCONTIN 30mg

Oxycodone interacts with numerous other substances, which can either increase its potency and side effects or reduce its efficacy. These interactions must be carefully considered when co-administering other medications.

• CNS Depressants: Alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and sedatives can amplify sedation, respiratory depression, and risk of coma or death.
• CYP3A4 Inhibitors:
  • Examples: Clarithromycin, ketoconazole, ritonavir
  • Effect: Increase oxycodone blood levels, raising the risk of toxicity.
• CYP3A4 Inducers:
  • Examples: Rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin
  • Effect: Decrease oxycodone effectiveness by enhancing its metabolism.
• MAO Inhibitors: Can cause severe, unpredictable CNS reactions. Avoid concurrent use or within 14 days.
• Serotonergic Drugs: SSRIs, SNRIs, and triptans may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Always inform your doctor of all medications, supplements, or herbal products you're taking. Adjustments to the oxycodone dose or alternative therapies may be necessary to prevent harmful drug interactions.

Dosage of OXYCONTIN 30mg

The dosage of OXYCONTIN 30mg must be personalized according to the severity of the patient's pain, previous opioid exposure, and clinical response. It should only be prescribed by healthcare professionals experienced in opioid therapy.

• Initial Dose for Opioid-Tolerant Patients: 30 mg every 12 hours
• Not for Opioid-Naïve Patients: Due to the high risk of respiratory depression, this strength should not be used in individuals new to opioids.
• Dose Titration:
  • Increase dosage in 25% to 50% increments based on pain relief and side effects.
  • Allow at least 1–2 days between dose adjustments.
• Maximum Dose: No absolute maximum, but higher doses require increased clinical oversight.

In all cases, dose adjustments must be made cautiously, and the patient should be monitored for side effects, signs of overdose, and adequacy of pain control. Adjuvant therapies may also be added to optimize pain relief.

Possible side effects of OXYCONTIN 30mg

OXYCONTIN 30mg may cause a variety of side effects. While some are expected and manageable, others are serious and require immediate medical attention. The risk increases with higher doses and longer durations of use.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Constipation
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Drowsiness and sedation
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
• Serious Side Effects:
  • Respiratory depression
  • Severe hypotension
  • Adrenal insufficiency
  • Seizures (rare)
  • Dependence, abuse, and withdrawal symptoms
• Allergic Reactions: Skin rash, itching, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing

Patients should contact their doctor if they experience persistent or severe side effects. Emergency services should be sought if symptoms like slow breathing, extreme drowsiness, or loss of consciousness occur.

OXYCONTIN 30mg Contraindications OXYCONTIN 30mg

There are specific medical conditions and situations in which the use of OXYCONTIN 30mg is strictly contraindicated due to the high risk of severe complications.

• Significant Respiratory Depression: Especially in unmonitored or non-resuscitative environments
• Severe Bronchial Asthma: In the absence of proper monitoring equipment
• Paralytic Ileus: Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction
• Hypersensitivity: Allergic reaction to oxycodone or any tablet component
• Acute Alcohol or Drug Intoxication: Particularly with sedatives or CNS depressants

Special precautions should also be taken in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, head trauma, intracranial lesions, or those with a history of substance abuse. Proper screening and evaluation are necessary before initiating therapy.

Storage of OXYCONTIN 30mg

Proper storage of OXYCONTIN 30mg is essential to ensure medication efficacy, prevent degradation, and reduce the risk of accidental ingestion or misuse.

• Storage Temperature: Keep at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
• Environment: Store in a dry place, away from excessive heat and moisture
• Container: Retain in original blister packaging until use to protect from light and tampering
• Safety: Store in a locked cabinet or other secure location out of reach of children and unauthorized users
• Disposal: Unused tablets should be disposed of via an authorized drug take-back program. Do not flush or throw in household waste unless instructed

Improper storage and disposal can result in accidental poisoning or environmental contamination. Always follow the instructions provided by your pharmacist or local regulations for safe handling.