Oxycodone Flashcards
What is Oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic narcotic analgesic and historically has been a popular drug of abuse among the narcotic-exploiting population. It is used to relieve pain severe enough to require opioid treatment and when other painkillers do not work well enough or cannot be tolerated.
Effects
Some effects include euphoria, relaxation, pain relief, sedation, slow or shallow breathing, papillary constriction, and cough suppression.
Side Effect: Constipation
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Try to apply more fibre into your diet, such as fresh fruit, vegetables, and cereals. Drink several (2-5) glasses of water each day. It may be beneficial to do some gentle exercise. It is likely that you will need to take a laxative to help prevent or treat this condition.
Side Effect: Nausea and Vomiting
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Stick to simple meals and do not eat rich or spicy food. It might help to swallow your oxycodone (without chewing if it is a tablet) just before or after a meal or snack to combat feelings of sickness. If you are currently sick, try small, frequent sips of water to avoid dehydration. This side effect should usually wear off after a few (~3) days. Speak to a doctor about taking anti-illness medication if it carries on for longer.
Side Effect: Stomach Discomfort
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Try to rest and relax. It can help to eat and drink slowly and have smaller and more frequent meals. Putting a heat pad or covered hot water bottle on your stomach may also help.
Side Effect: Fatigue
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Any tiredness or exhaustion should wear off within a week or 2 as your body gets accustomed to the oxycodone. Speak to a doctor if this condition carries on for longer.
Side Effect: Vertigo
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Stop what you are doing and sit or lie down until you feel better. Move slowly and carefully. Do not drink alcohol as it will make your condition worse. Do not drive, ride a bicycle, or use tools or machinery.
Side Effect: Confusion
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Speak to your doctor if you feel confused; your dosage may need to be adjusted.
Side Effect: Headaches
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Rest and drink plenty of fluids. It is best not to drink alcohol while taking oxycodone as this can make headaches worse. It is safe to take an everyday painkiller such as paracetamol (Tylenol) or ibuprofen. Speak to your doctor if the headaches last longer than a week or are severe.
Side Effect: Itchy Skin and Rash
The following side effect is common and happens in more than 1 in 100 people.
Solution: Take an antihistamine, which you can purchase from a pharmacy. Check with the pharmacist to see what type is suitable for you. If these symptoms do not go away or get worse, speak to a doctor, as you may need to try a different painkiller.
Unspecified Side Effects
Swelling, sweating, sexual problems, withdrawal sickness, and depression.
Overdose
Extreme drowsiness, muscle weakness, confusion, cold and clammy skin, pinpoint pupils, shallow breathing, slow heart rate, fainting, coma, and possible death.
Brand Names
OxyContin, Percodan, and Percocet.
Street Names
Hillbilly Heroin, Greenies, Beans, Blues, Greens, Rims, Tires, Kickers, Killers, Cotton, Whites, Kicker, O.C., Ox, Roxy, Perc, Oxy, and Oxycotton.
Modes of Administration
Orally or intravenously. The immediate and extended-release tablets are crushed, sniffed, or dissolved in water and injected. Others heat a tablet that has been placed on a piece of foil then inhale the vapors.
