Opana ER

Generic name: Oxymorphone HCl

What is Opana ER?

Opana ER is an extended-release prescription medicine that contains the opioid (narcotic pain medicine) oxymorphone. Opana ER is used to treat adults with continuous moderate-to-severe pain when a continuous, around-the-clock opioid analgesic is needed for an extended period of time.

What is the most important information I should know about Opana ER?

Opana ER can cause trouble breathing (hypoventilation), which can lead to death, if used differently than the way you were told to use it by your doctor.

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, you could die from an overdose. If you are unsure if any of your medicines contain alcohol, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

Opana ER can be abused in a manner similar to other opioids, legal or illicit. Do not abruptly stop taking Opana ER without talking to your doctor first.

Opana ER is not intended for use as an "as needed" analgesic.

Who should not take Opana ER?

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to Opana ER, or any of its ingredients, or if you have a known severe allergic reaction to medications similar to morphine such as codeine.

You should also not take this medication during the first 12 to 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; in situations where opioids are contraindicated, for example, if you have severe asthma or other breathing problems; if you have, or suspect you have, paralytic ileus (intestinal obstruction); or if you have moderate or severe liver disease.

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, seizures, problems urinating, prostate problems, 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: If you have never taken an opioid before: It is suggested that your first dose of Opana ER should be 5 milligrams (mg) every 12 hours. Thereafter, your doctor may slowly increase your dose at increments of 5-10 mg every 12 hours every 3-7 days, until adequate pain control has been achieved and side effects are minimal. Switching from Opana to Opana ER: If you are on Opana you may be converted to Opana ER by taking half the total daily oral Opana dose as Opana ER, every 12 hours.

How should I take Opana ER?

Opana ER should be taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour prior to a meal or two hours after a meal. Opana ER tablets are to be swallowed whole.

What should I avoid while taking Opana ER?

Avoid taking broken, dissolved or crushed Opana ER tablets.

Avoid drinking or eating anything with alcohol in it, including alcoholic beverages and medication, 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 for the performance of potentially hazardous tasks, such as driving a car or operating machinery.

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, hypnotics, opioids, phenothiazines, 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), feeling of 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. Talk with your doctor before taking this drug 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 2 doses at once unless your doctor tells you to. If you are not sure about your dosing call your doctor.

How should I store Opana ER?

Store at room temperature, in a child-proof container.