Roxicodone
Generic Name: Oxycodone
What is Roxicodone?
Roxicodone is a narcotic pain medication similar to morphine that is prescribed to manage moderate-to-severe pain.What is the most important information I should know about Roxicodone?
Roxicodone may cause difficulty in breathing at higher doses. These effects may be exaggerated if you've had a head injury.It can be dangerous to combine Roxicodone with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants (such as sleep aids and tranquilizers), especially when not under your doctor's orders. Mixing these drugs can lead to difficulty in breathing, low blood pressure, sedation, or coma. Let your doctor know about all medications and substances you are taking.
Roxicodone may be habit-forming and has potential for abuse. Protect Roxicodone from theft and do not give to anyone else; it should only be used by the individual for whom it was prescribed.
Roxicodone may impair the mental and/or physical ability required to perform potentially hazardous tasks. Use caution when driving or operating machinery.
Roxicodone may decrease your blood pressure when you get up too fast from sitting or lying down. This may lead to dizziness and fainting.
Tell your doctor if your pain is not being adequately controlled with this medication. Individualization of dosage is essential for optimal use. Do not adjust the dose of Roxicodone without consulting with your doctor.
Who should not take Roxicodone?
Do not take Roxicodone if you are allergic to it.Do not take Roxicodone if you currently have a lung condition (such as asthma) or you have difficulty breathing.
Do not take Roxicodone if you have blockage or obstruction in your intestines.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Roxicodone?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Roxicodone. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have acute alcoholism, abdominal conditions, Addison's disease (adrenal gland failure), difficulty urinating, enlarged prostate, head injuries, kidney problems, liver problems, low blood pressure, lung disease or problems, pancreatic/biliary tract disease, seizures or history of seizures, spinal problems, or thyroid problems.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: If you have never received opioid pain medications before, the usual dosage of Roxicodone ranges from 5-15 milligrams (mg) every 4-6 hours as needed for pain. For severe chronic pain, Roxicodone is administered on a regularly scheduled basis, every 4 to 6 hours, at the lowest effective dosage.
Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dosage for you if you have been receiving opioid-containing pain medications before.
Let your doctor know how well your pain is being controlled. Your dose will be individualized by your doctor according to the severity of the pain and your response to the medicine.
How should I take Roxicodone?
Take Roxicodone tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not adjust the dose without consulting your doctor.If you have kidney or liver disease, take as directed by your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Roxicodone?
Avoid alcohol while taking Roxicodone to prevent serious side effects.Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or doing other possibly dangerous activities until you know how Roxicodone affects you.
Avoid stopping Roxicodone abruptly. It may be necessary to gradually stop by lowering the dose or frequency.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Roxicodone?
If Roxicodone 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 Roxicodone with the following: buprenorphine, butorphanol, CNS depressants (such as alcohol, general anesthetics, other narcotic pain medications, phenothiazines, tranquilizers, sedative-hypnotics), MAOIs, muscle relaxants, nalbuphine, or pentazocine.What are the possible side effects of Roxicodone?
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, difficulty in breathing, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, insomnia, itching, fatigue, lightheadedness, nausea, sedation, vomiting, weakness
Stop taking Roxicodone immediately and call your doctor if you have: cold clammy skin, difficulty breathing, drowsiness, low blood pressure
Can I receive Roxicodone if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Roxicodone on pregnancy are unknown. Roxicodone may be excreted in breast milk. 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 Roxicodone?
If you miss a dose of Roxicodone, take the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Roxicodone?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
