OXYCONTIN

Who is OxyContin for ?

Oxycodone is used to relieve moderate to moderate-to-severe pain. It also is used to relieve postpartum, postoperative, and dental pain. this medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Oxycodone is a narcotic pain medication. Oxycodone raises your pain threshold and blunts your brain’s perception of pain.

When should I be careful taking OxyContin ?

Before taking oxycodone,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to oxycodone, codeine, sulfites (some preparations of oxycodone contain sulfites and may cause allergic reactions), or any other drugs. If you are allergic to aspirin, tell your doctor and do not take any aspirin and oxycodone combination product (e.g., Percodan or Roxiprin).
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other pain relievers; antidepressants; medications for cough, cold, or allergies; sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had hypothyroidism, Addison's disease, urethral stricture, prostatic hypertrophy, or liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking oxycodone, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking oxycodone.
• you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
• remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.

Side Effects

Although side effects from oxycodone are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• upset stomach
• constipation
• dry mouth

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• rapid or slow heartbeat
• trouble breathing
• hives
• skin rash
• hallucinations
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• headache
• vomiting