Opana ER
Generic Name: Oxymorphone
What is Opana ER?
Opana ER is an extended-release pain medicine (slowly releases the medicine into your body throughout the day) that is used to treat adults with continuous moderate-to-severe pain for an extended period of time. It is an opioid (narcotic) medicine.What is the most important information I should know about Opana ER?
Opana ER is not intended for use on an as-needed basis. Use Opana ER exactly the way your doctor tells you to, only for the condition for which it was prescribed.Opana ER contains oxymorphone, which is a potential drug of abuse and can cause severe adverse effects, including severe breathing problems and even death if not taken according to your doctor's directions.
Swallow Opana ER tablets whole. Do not break, crush, dissolve, or chew Opana ER tablets before swallowing. Do not drink alcohol or take medicines that contain alcohol while you are using Opana ER. If you do not follow these instructions, serious side effects can occur. If you are unsure if any of your medicines contain alcohol, check with your doctor or pharmacist.
Call your doctor right away if you experience any pain or side effects while taking Opana ER. Your doctor will tailor your dose specifically for you.
Who should not take Opana ER?
Do not take this medication if you are allergic to Opana ER or any of its ingredients, if you have had a severe allergic reaction to medications similar to morphine such as codeine, have blockage of the bowel, liver problems, or severe lung problems including (such as asthma).You should also not take this medication during the first 12-24 hours following surgery if you have not already been taking Opana ER prior to surgery, or if pain after surgery is mild or not expected to persist for an extended period of time.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Opana ER?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Opana ER. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have had breathing problems, liver or kidney problems, brain injury, Addison's disease (adrenal gland failure), seizures, problems urinating, prostate problems, low blood pressure or if you are taking medications to lower your blood pressure, stomach problems, low levels of thyroid hormones in your blood, or if you have experienced drug- or alcohol-dependency. Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dosage for you based on your condition and past medication history.
How should I take Opana ER?
Opana ER should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour prior to a meal or 2 hours after a meal.Opana ER tablets are to be swallowed whole. Taking broken, chewed, dissolved, or crushed Opana ER tablets can lead to potentially fatal doses.
Take Opana ER exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not adjust the dose or discontinue Opana ER without consulting your doctor. Contact your doctor if you feel that discontinuation of therapy is appropriate; your doctor can provide a dose schedule to accomplish a gradual discontinuation of the medication, if necessary.
What should I avoid while taking Opana ER?
Avoid drinking or eating anything with alcohol in it, including alcoholic beverages or medications containing alcohol, while taking Opana ER. Alcohol may cause an overdose of oxymorphone.Opana ER may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or lightheadedness, and may impair mental and/or physical abilities required to perform potentially hazardous tasks, such as driving a car or operating machinery. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you are aware of how Opana ER affects you.
Do not share this medication with others.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Opana ER?
If Opana ER is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Opana ER with the following: alcohol, general anesthetics, buprenorphine, butorphanol, hypnotics, nalbuphine, other opioids, pentazocine, phenothiazines (such as chlorpromazine), sedatives, and tranquilizers.What are the possible side effects of Opana ER?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: constipation, dizziness (vertigo), tiredness, headache, itchiness, nausea, sleeplessness, sweating, vomiting
Can I receive Opana ER if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Opana ER during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Opana ER?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Opana ER?
Store at room temperature. Dispose of unused tablets by flushing them down the toilet. Protect from theft.
I'm Shereen A. Gharbia, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
