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Oxycodone (Monograph)

Brand names: Oxaydo, Oxecta, OxyCONTIN, Roxicodone, Xtampza ER
Drug class: Opiate Agonists
VA class: CN101
CAS number: 124-90-3

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride, oxyCODONE Myristate is also contained as an ingredient in the following combinations:
oxyCODONE and Acetaminophen
oxyCODONE and Aspirin

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 19, 2023. Written by ASHP.

Warning

Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS):

FDA approved a REMS for oxycodone to ensure that the benefits outweigh the risk. The REMS may apply to one or more preparations of oxycodone and consists of the following: medication guide and elements to assure safe use. See https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/rems/.

  • FDA drug safety communication (4/13/2023): As part of its ongoing efforts to address the nation’s opioid crisis, FDA is requiring several updates to the prescribing information of opioid pain medicines. The changes are being made to provide additional guidance for safe use of these drugs while also recognizing the important benefits when used appropriately. The changes apply to both immediate-release (IR) and extended-release/long-acting preparations (ER/LA).

  • Updates to the IR opioids state that these drugs should not be used for an extended period unless the pain remains severe enough to require an opioid pain medicine and alternative treatment options are insufficient, and that many acute pain conditions treated in the outpatient setting require no more than a few days of an opioid pain medicine.

  • Updates to the ER/LA opioids recommend that these drugs be reserved for severe and persistent pain requiring an extended period of treatment with a daily opioid pain medicine and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate.

  • A new warning is being added about opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH) for both IR and ER/LA opioid pain medicines. This includes information describing the symptoms that differentiate OIH from opioid tolerance and withdrawal.

  • Information in the boxed warning for all IR and ER/LA opioid pain medicines will be updated and reordered to elevate the importance of warnings concerning life-threatening respiratory depression, and risks associated with using opioid pain medicines in conjunction with benzodiazepines or other medicines that depress the central nervous system (CNS).

  • Other changes will also be required in various other sections of the prescribing information to educate clinicians, patients, and caregivers about the risks of these drugs.

Warning

    Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
  • Risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdosage and death. Assess each patient’s risk for addiction, abuse, and misuse before prescribing the drug; monitor all patients regularly for development of these behaviors or conditions. (See Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse under Cautions.)

    Respiratory Depression
  • Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur. Monitor for respiratory depression, especially during initiation of therapy and following dosage increases. (See Respiratory Depression under Cautions.)

  • Patients must swallow extended-release tablets whole to avoid exposure to a potentially fatal dose.

    Accidental Exposure
  • Accidental ingestion of even 1 dose, especially by a child, can result in a fatal overdose.

    Neonatal Opiate Withdrawal
  • Prolonged maternal use of opiates during pregnancy can result in neonatal withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated. Advise women who require such therapy during pregnancy of this risk and ensure appropriate treatment will be available. (See Pregnancy under Cautions.)

    CYP3A4-mediated Interactions
  • Initiation of CYP3A4 inhibitors or discontinuance of CYP3A4 inducers can result in fatal oxycodone overdosage.

    Medication Errors with Oral Solutions
  • Potential for medication errors resulting in inadvertent overdosage and death due to confusion between mg and mL or between oxycodone hydrochloride solution (5 mg/5 mL) and oxycodone hydrochloride oral concentrate solution (100 mg/5 mL). Take care to ensure that the correct dose is communicated and dispensed.

  • Use oral concentrate solution only in opiate-tolerant patients.

  • Keep oral solutions out of the reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek immediate medical attention.

    Concomitant Use with Benzodiazepines or Other CNS Depressants
  • Concomitant use of opiate agonists with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death.

  • Reserve concomitant use of opiate analgesics and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants for patients in whom alternative treatment options are inadequate; use lowest effective dosages and shortest possible duration of concomitant therapy and monitor closely for respiratory depression and sedation. (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)

Introduction

Opiate agonist; phenanthrene-derivative.

Uses for Oxycodone

Acute Pain

Relief of moderate to severe pain when use of an opiate analgesic is appropriate and alternative treatments are inadequate.

Usually, temporary relief of moderate to moderately severe pain such as that associated with acute and some chronic medical disorders including renal or biliary colic, acute trauma, postoperative pain, and cancer.

Opiates given orally in combination with acetaminophen or NSAIAs may produce greater analgesic effect than either drug alone; may also cause fewer adverse effects than equianalgesic doses of the individual drugs alone.

Extended-release oxycodone hydrochloride/acetaminophen in fixed combination: Relief of acute pain that is severe enough to require opiate therapy and for which alternative treatments (e.g., nonopiate analgesics) are inadequate or not tolerated.

In symptomatic treatment of acute pain, reserve opiate analgesics for pain resulting from severe injuries, severe medical conditions, or surgical procedures, or when nonopiate alternatives for relieving pain and restoring function are expected to be ineffective or are contraindicated. Use smallest effective dosage for shortest possible duration since long-term opiate use often begins with treatment of acute pain. Optimize concomitant use of other appropriate therapies. (See Managing Opiate Therapy for Acute Pain under Dosage and Administration.)

Reserve oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets and oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules for relief of pain that is severe enough to require long-term, daily, around-the-clock use of an opiate analgesic and for which alternative treatment options (e.g., nonopiate analgesics or immediate-release opiates) are inadequate or not tolerated; not indicated for as-needed (“prn”) use.

Chronic Pain

For relief of moderate to severe malignant (cancer) pain and chronic nonmalignant pain when use of an opiate analgesic is appropriate and alternative treatments are inadequate.

Oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets and oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules: Use only for relief of pain that is severe enough to require long-term, daily, around-the-clock use of an opiate analgesic and for which alternative treatment options (e.g., nonopiate analgesics, immediate-release opiates) are inadequate or not tolerated. Not indicated for as-needed (“prn”) use.

In the management of chronic pain associated with a terminal illness such as cancer, the principal goal of analgesic therapy is to make the patient relatively pain-free while maintaining as good a quality of life as possible.

Although consideration of the dependence potential of opiate agonists has often limited their effective use by many clinicians in terminally ill patients with severe, chronic pain, such consideration is irrelevant in the context of terminal illness.

Generally use opiates for management of chronic pain (i.e., pain lasting >3 months or past the time of normal tissue healing ) that is not associated with active cancer treatment, palliative care, or end-of-life care only if other appropriate nonpharmacologic and nonopiate pharmacologic strategies have been ineffective and expected benefits for both pain relief and functional improvement are anticipated to outweigh risks.

If used for chronic pain, opiate analgesics should be part of an integrated approach that also includes appropriate nonpharmacologic modalities (e.g., cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, biofeedback, functional restoration, exercise therapy, certain interventional procedures) and other appropriate pharmacologic therapies (e.g., nonopiate analgesics, analgesic adjuncts such as selected anticonvulsants and antidepressants for certain neuropathic pain conditions).

Available evidence insufficient to determine whether long-term opiate therapy for chronic pain results in sustained pain relief or improvements in function and quality of life or is superior to other pharmacologic or nonpharmacologic treatments. Use is associated with serious risks (e.g., opiate use disorder [OUD], overdose). (See Managing Opiate Therapy for Chronic Noncancer Pain under Dosage and Administration.)

Oxycodone Dosage and Administration

General

Managing Opiate Therapy for Acute Pain

Managing Opiate Therapy for Chronic Noncancer Pain

Administration

Oral Administration

Conventional Tablets

Some manufacturers state that their oral tablet formulations should not be crushed and dissolved. Do not administer these formulations via gastric, NG, or other feeding tube; they can obstruct the tube. Administer these tablets intact with sufficient water to ensure that each tablet is completely swallowed immediately after it is placed in the mouth. Consult respective manufacturer's labeling for specific recommendations.

Oral Solution and Oral Concentrate Solution

Take care to ensure that oxycodone hydrochloride solution (5 mg/5 mL) and oxycodone hydrochloride oral concentrate solution (100 mg/5 mL) are not confused. (See Medication Errors with Oral Solutions in Boxed Warning.)

Take care to ensure that the appropriate dose is communicated and dispensed. Prescriptions should specify the intended total dose of the drug (in mg) along with the corresponding total volume (in mL).

Always use the calibrated measuring device provided with the particular formulation to ensure that the dose is measured and administered accurately.

Oxycodone Hydrochloride Extended-release Tablets

Swallow tablets whole; do not break, cut, dissolve, crush, or chew. (See Respiratory Depression in Boxed Warning.)

Administer tablets one at a time with enough water to ensure that each tablet is completely swallowed immediately after it is placed in the mouth; do not wet the tablets (e.g., by soaking or licking) before placing in mouth for swallowing. (See GI Complications with Extended-release Tablets under Cautions.)

Food does not substantially affect the extent of oral absorption from extended-release tablets.

Oxycodone Myristate Extended-release Capsules

Swallow capsules whole; alternatively, sprinkle capsule contents on food or administer capsule contents directly into the mouth or via NG or gastrostomy tube.

Must be administered orally with food. Administer each dose (whether given as intact capsule or as capsule contents sprinkled on food or directly in mouth) with approximately the same amount of food to ensure consistent plasma concentrations. (See Food under Pharmacokinetics.)

For patients who have difficulty swallowing, open capsule and sprinkle contents onto a small amount of soft food (e.g., applesauce, pudding, yogurt, ice cream, jam) or into a cup and administer directly into mouth. Patient should swallow capsule contents immediately and rinse mouth to ensure entire dose is swallowed.

Administration via NG or gastrostomy tube: Flush tube with water, then open capsule and carefully pour contents directly into the tube; do not premix with liquid that will be used to flush the tube. Then flush tube with 15 mL of liquid (water, milk, liquid nutritional supplement); flush 2 more times, each time with 10 mL of liquid, to ensure that the entire dose is delivered.

Oxycodone Hydrochloride/Acetaminophen Extended-release Tablets

Swallow tablets whole; do not break, cut, dissolve, crush, split, or chew. (See Respiratory Depression in Boxed Warning.)

Administer tablets one at a time with enough water to ensure that each tablet is completely swallowed immediately after it is placed in the mouth; do not wet the tablets (e.g., by soaking or licking) before placing in mouth for swallowing. (See GI Complications with Extended-release Tablets under Cautions.)

Administer without regard to meals.

Do not administer through NG, gastric, or other feeding tube.

Rectal Administration

When rectal administration was preferred, conventional oral tablets or solution has been administered rectally [off-label].

If administered rectally [off-label], insert the dosage form just inside the rectal sphincter for optimal systemic absorption of unmetabolized drug. Administration high in the rectal vault can result in rapid first-pass hepatic metabolism, with greatly diminished efficacy.

Not usually suitable for long-term administration due to rectal irritation from repeated dosing.

Although the manufacturer states that extended-release tablets should only be administered orally, rectal administration of extended-release formulations is used widely for opiate delivery in palliative care.

Dosage

Available as oxycodone hydrochloride; dosage expressed in terms of the salt. Also available as oxycodone myristate; dosage expressed in terms of oxycodone.

Use lowest effective dosage and shortest duration of therapy consistent with treatment goals of the patient.

When switching patients receiving chronic opiate therapy from one opiate analgesic to another, generally reduce the calculated equianalgesic dosage of the new opiate agonist by about 25–50% to avoid inadvertent overdosage. This calculation does not apply when switching to methadone; consult specific recommendations for methadone dosage.

When used concomitantly with other CNS depressants, use lowest effective dosages and shortest possible duration of concomitant therapy. (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)

Pediatric Patients

Pain (Conventional Preparations)
Oral

Some experts have suggested a dosage of 0.05–0.15 mg/kg (up to 5 mg) every 4–6 hours as needed. Adjust according to response and tolerance.

Pain (Oxycodone Hydrochloride Extended-release Tablets)
Oral

Use only in opiate-tolerant children ≥11 years of age who have received and tolerated opiate analgesics for ≥5 consecutive days, and at a dosage of ≥20 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride daily (or equivalent) for ≥2 days immediately before initiating extended-release tablets.

Appropriate dosage selection and titration are essential to reduce the risk of respiratory depression. Individualize initial dosage based on patient's prior analgesic use and risk factors for addiction, abuse, and misuse.

Supplemental analgesia (i.e., “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release analgesic) for breakthrough pain may be necessary during therapy with oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets.

Discontinue all other around-the-clock opiates when therapy with oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets is initiated.

Because of substantial interpatient variability in relative potency of opiate analgesics and analgesic formulations, it is preferable to underestimate the patient's 24-hour opiate requirements and provide “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release opiate analgesic than to overestimate the requirements and manage an adverse reaction.

When switching from other opiate therapy to oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets, use conversion factors in Table 1 as a guide for selecting initial dosage. Doses in Table 1 are not equianalgesic doses; do not use these conversion factors to switch patients from oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets to another opiate, as this will overestimate the dosage and may result in fatal overdosage.

For patients receiving a single opiate analgesic, multiply the current total daily dosage of the opiate by the conversion factor to calculate the approximate daily dosage of oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets; divide the calculated daily dosage in half for administration every 12 hours.

For patients receiving >1 opiate analgesic, calculate the approximate daily dosage of extended-release oxycodone hydrochloride for each opiate and then add those totals to obtain the approximate total daily dosage of oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets; divide the calculated total daily dosage in half for administration every 12 hours.

For patients receiving analgesics containing opiates and nonopiates in fixed combination, consider only the opiate component in the conversion.

If calculated doses do not correspond to an available tablet strength, always round dosage down to the nearest whole tablet.

If calculated total daily dosage <20 mg, do not convert to the extended-release formulation.

For asymmetric dosing, administer the higher dose in the morning and the lower dose in the evening.

Monitor for opiate withdrawal and for oversedation or toxicity following switch to extended-release oxycodone hydrochloride.

For patients receiving high-dose parenteral opiates, a more conservative conversion is warranted (e.g., for high-dose parenteral morphine, use 1.5 instead of 3 as a multiplication factor).

Table 1. Conversion Factors When Switching Pediatric Patients ≥11 Years of Age to Oxycodone Hydrochloride Extended-release Tablets290

Prior Opiate

Oral

Parenteral

Oxycodone

1

Hydrocodone

0.9

Hydromorphone

4

20

Morphine

0.5

3

Tramadol

0.17

0.2

Patients receiving fentanyl transdermal systems may receive extended-release tablets beginning 18 hours after removal of the transdermal system. Use a conservative initial dosage of approximately 10 mg every 12 hours as extended-release tablets for each 25-mcg/hour increment in fentanyl transdermal system dosage. Monitor closely; experience with this dosage conversion is limited.

Dosage Adjustment to Achieve Adequate Analgesia
Oral

May adjust dosage every 1–2 days, generally in increments of 25% of the current total daily dosage, to provide adequate analgesia and acceptable adverse effects; provide supplemental analgesia (i.e., “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release analgesic) for relief of breakthrough pain.

Safety and efficacy of dosing intervals <12 hours not established.

If level of pain increases after dosage stabilization, attempt to identify cause of increased pain before increasing dosage of the extended-release tablets.

Frequent communication among the prescriber, other members of the healthcare team, the patient, and the patient's caregiver or family is important during periods of changing analgesic requirements, including the initial dosage titration period.

Maintenance Therapy
Oral

Continually assess adequacy of pain control and reevaluate for adverse effects, as well as for development of addiction, abuse, or misuse.

During long-term therapy, periodically reevaluate need for continued opiate therapy.

Discontinuance of Therapy
Oral

Discontinue therapy gradually to avoid precipitation of withdrawal symptoms.

Adults

Pain (Conventional Preparations)
Oral

In opiate-naive patients, initiate with 5–15 mg every 4–6 hours as needed. Adjust according to response and tolerance.

Patients with chronic pain may require around-the-clock dosing. Reserve fixed dosage schedules for patients for whom the benefits of opiate analgesia outweigh the risks of respiratory depression, altered mental state, and orthostatic hypotension; fixed dosage schedules have a narrow therapeutic index in certain patient populations, especially when used concomitantly with other drugs.

In patients switching from other opiates or opiate formulations to conventional oxycodone preparations, consider the potency of the prior opiate relative to that of oxycodone, keeping in mind that published dosage conversion ratios are only approximations. Conservative initial dosages, patient monitoring, and dosage adjustment based on response are essential when the opiate or opiate formulation is switched.

During long-term therapy, continually reevaluate analgesic efficacy and adverse effects; periodically reassess the need for continued therapy, particularly in patients with chronic pain not associated with cancer or terminal illness.

Oxycodone-nonopiate-containing analgesic fixed combinations: Nonopiate component may limit dosage of oxycodone component. Nonopiate analgesics are available in various fixed ratios with oxycodone and also are available in many other prescription and OTC preparations; ensure that therapy is not duplicated and that nonopiate dosage does not exceed maximum recommended dosages.

When discontinuing oxycodone conventional preparations following long-term therapy, generally reduce dosage by 25–50% per day. If symptoms of withdrawal occur, increase the dose to the prior level and taper more slowly.

Pain (Oxycodone Hydrochloride/Acetaminophen Extended-release Tablets)
Oral

Oxycodone hydrochloride 15 mg (given in fixed combination with 650 mg of acetaminophen) every 12 hours. May give second dose as soon as 8 hours after the initial dose if required for adequate analgesia, but administer all subsequent doses at 12-hour intervals.

When discontinuing therapy in patient who may be opiate dependent, reduce dosage by 50% every 2–4 days to avoid manifestations of abrupt withdrawal.

Pain (Oxycodone Hydrochloride Extended-release Tablets)
Oral

Appropriate dosage selection and titration are essential to reduce the risk of respiratory depression. Individualize initial dosage based on patient's prior analgesic use and risk factors for addiction, abuse, and misuse.

Only use 60- and 80-mg formulations, single doses >40 mg, or total daily dosages >80 mg in patients with established tolerance to opiates of comparable potency.

Patients are considered opiate tolerant if they have been receiving at least 60 mg of oral morphine sulfate daily, 25 mcg of transdermal fentanyl per hour, 30 mg of oral oxycodone hydrochloride daily, 8 mg of oral hydromorphone hydrochloride daily, 25 mg of oral oxymorphone hydrochloride daily, or an equianalgesic dose of another opiate daily for at least 1 week.

Supplemental analgesia (i.e., “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release analgesic) for breakthrough pain may be necessary during therapy with oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets; discontinue any other existing around-the-clock opiates when therapy with oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets is initiated.

Initial Therapy with Extended-release Tablets in Opiate-naive or Nontolerant Patients
Oral

Initially, 10 mg every 12 hours. Higher initial dosages in patients who are not opiate tolerant may result in fatal respiratory depression.

Switching from Conventional Oxycodone Preparations to Extended-release Tablets
Oral

Calculate the total daily dosage of the conventional preparation and give as extended-release tablets in 2 divided doses at 12-hour intervals.

Switching from Other Opiates to Extended-release Tablets
Oral

Manufacturer states that no equianalgesic conversion ratios have been established in clinical trials for transferring patients from other opiate analgesics to oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets.

Because of substantial interpatient variability in relative potency of opiate analgesics and analgesic formulations, it is preferable to underestimate the patient's 24-hour opiate requirements and provide “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release opiate analgesic than to overestimate the requirements and manage an adverse reaction.

Manufacturer recommends initial dosage of 10 mg every 12 hours; administer supplemental analgesics (i.e., “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release analgesic) if necessary.

Particularly close monitoring required following switch from methadone, since conversion ratios between methadone and other opiates vary widely depending on extent of prior methadone exposure and because methadone has a long half-life and tends to accumulate in plasma.

Patients receiving fentanyl transdermal systems may receive extended-release tablets beginning 18 hours after removal of the transdermal system. Use a conservative initial dosage of approximately 10 mg every 12 hours as extended-release tablets for each 25-mcg/hour increment in fentanyl transdermal system dosage. Monitor closely; experience with this dosage conversion is limited.

Dosage Adjustment to Achieve Adequate Analgesia
Oral

May adjust dosage every 1–2 days, generally in increments of 25–50% of the current total daily dosage, to provide adequate analgesia and acceptable adverse effects; provide supplemental analgesia (i.e., “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release analgesic) for patients experiencing breakthrough pain.

Safety and efficacy of dosing intervals <12 hours not established.

If level of pain increases after dosage stabilization, attempt to identify cause of increased pain before increasing dosage of the extended-release tablets.

Frequent communication among the prescriber, other members of the healthcare team, the patient, and the patient's caregiver or family is important during periods of changing analgesic requirements, including the initial dosage titration period.

Maintenance Therapy
Oral

Continually assess adequacy of pain control and reevaluate for adverse effects, as well as for development of addiction, abuse, or misuse.

During long-term therapy, periodically reevaluate need for continued opiate therapy.

Discontinuance of Therapy
Oral

Discontinue therapy gradually to avoid precipitation of withdrawal symptoms.

Pain (Oxycodone Myristate Extended-release Capsules)
Oral

Appropriate dosage selection and titration are essential to reduce the risk of respiratory depression. Individualize initial dosage based on patient's prior analgesic use, response, pain severity, and risk factors for addiction, abuse, and misuse.

Only use single oxycodone doses >36 mg (equivalent to 40 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride) or total daily dosages >72 mg (equivalent to 80 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride) in patients with established tolerance to opiates of comparable potency.

Supplemental analgesia (i.e., “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release analgesic) for breakthrough pain may be necessary during therapy with extended-release capsules; discontinue any other existing around-the-clock opiates when therapy with oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules is initiated.

Patients are considered opiate tolerant if they have been receiving at least 60 mg of oral morphine sulfate daily, 25 mcg of transdermal fentanyl per hour, 30 mg of oral oxycodone hydrochloride daily, 8 mg of oral hydromorphone hydrochloride daily, 25 mg of oral oxymorphone hydrochloride daily, 60 mg of oral hydrocodone bitartrate daily, or an equianalgesic dose of another opiate daily for at least 1 week.

Initial Therapy with Extended-release Capsules in Opiate-naive or Nontolerant Patients
Oral

Initially, 9 mg (equivalent to 10 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride) every 12 hours. Higher initial dosages in patients who are not opiate tolerant may result in fatal respiratory depression.

Switching from Conventional Oxycodone Preparations to Extended-release Capsules
Oral

Calculate the total daily dosage of the conventional preparation and give as extended-release capsules in 2 divided doses at 12-hour intervals.

Dosage adjustment may be necessary; oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules are not bioequivalent to other oxycodone extended-release preparations.

Switching from Other Opiates to Extended-release Capsules
Oral

Manufacturer states that no equianalgesic conversion ratios have been established in clinical trials for transferring patients from other opiate analgesics to oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules.

Because of substantial interpatient variability in relative potency of opiate analgesics and analgesic formulations, it is preferable to underestimate the patient's 24-hour opiate requirements and provide “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release opiate analgesic than to overestimate the requirements and manage an adverse reaction.

Carefully individualize dosage; overestimation of the initial dosage in opiate-tolerant patients can result in fatal overdosage.

Manufacturer recommends initial dosage of 9 mg (equivalent to 10 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride) every 12 hours; administer supplemental analgesics (i.e., “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release analgesic) if necessary.

Particularly close monitoring required following switch from methadone, since conversion ratios between methadone and other opiates vary widely depending on extent of prior methadone exposure and because methadone has a long half-life and tends to accumulate in plasma.

Patients receiving fentanyl transdermal systems may receive extended-release capsules beginning 18 hours after removal of the transdermal system. Use a conservative initial dosage of approximately 9 mg (equivalent to 10 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride) every 12 hours as extended-release capsules for each 25-mcg/hour increment in fentanyl transdermal system dosage. Monitor closely; experience with this dosage conversion is limited.

Dosage Adjustment to Achieve Adequate Analgesia
Oral

May adjust dosage every 1–2 days, generally in increments of 25–50% of the current total daily dosage, to provide adequate analgesia and acceptable adverse effects; provide supplemental analgesia (i.e., “rescue” therapy with an immediate-release analgesic) for patients experiencing breakthrough pain. Do not exceed 288 mg (eight 36-mg capsules) daily.

Safety and efficacy of dosing intervals <12 hours not established.

If level of pain increases after dosage stabilization, attempt to identify cause of increased pain before increasing dosage of the extended-release capsules.

Frequent communication among the prescriber, other members of the healthcare team, the patient, and the patient's caregiver or family is important during periods of changing analgesic requirements, including the initial dosage titration period.

Maintenance Therapy
Oral

Continually assess adequacy of pain control and reevaluate for adverse effects, as well as for development of addiction, abuse, or misuse.

During long-term therapy, periodically reevaluate need for continued opiate therapy.

Discontinuance of Therapy
Oral

Discontinue therapy gradually to avoid precipitation of withdrawal symptoms.

Prescribing Limits

Adults

Acute Pain
Oral

For acute pain not related to trauma or surgery, limit prescribed quantity to amount needed for the expected duration of pain severe enough to require opiate analgesia (generally ≤3 days and rarely >7 days).

Chronic Pain
Oral

CDC recommends that primary care clinicians carefully reassess individual benefits and risks before prescribing dosages equivalent to ≥50 mg of morphine sulfate daily (approximately ≥33 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride daily) for chronic pain and avoid dosages equivalent to ≥90 mg of morphine sulfate daily (approximately ≥60 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride daily) or carefully justify their decision to prescribe such dosages. Other experts recommend consulting a pain management specialist before exceeding a dosage equivalent to 80–120 mg of morphine sulfate daily.

Some states have set prescribing limits (e.g., maximum daily dosages that can be prescribed, dosage thresholds at which consultation with a specialist is mandated or recommended).

Pain (Oxycodone Myristate Extended-release Capsules)
Oral

Maximum 288 mg of oxycodone daily (eight 36-mg capsules); safety of excipients at dosages >288 mg daily not established.

Special Populations

Hepatic Impairment

Conventional Preparations

Use conservative initial dosage; adjust dosage based on the clinical situation.

Oxycodone Hydrochloride/Acetaminophen Extended-release Tablets

Initial oxycodone hydrochloride dose of 7.5 mg (in fixed combination with acetaminophen 325 mg). Monitor for respiratory depression and adjust dosage as needed.

Oxycodone Hydrochloride Extended-release Tablets

Initially, 33–50% of the usual dosage; titrate dosage carefully.

Oxycodone Myristate Extended-release Capsules

Initially, 33–50% of the usual dosage; titrate dosage carefully. Use alternative analgesic if required oxycodone dose is <9 mg.

Renal Impairment

Conventional and Extended-release Preparations

Use conservative initial dosage in patients with Clcr <60 mL/minute; adjust dosage based on the clinical situation.

Oxycodone hydrochloride/acetaminophen extended-release tablets in patients with Clcr <60 mL/minute: Initial oxycodone hydrochloride dose of 7.5 mg (in fixed combination with acetaminophen 325 mg). Monitor for respiratory depression and adjust dosage as needed.

Oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules: Do not use if required oxycodone dose is <9 mg.

Geriatric Patients

Conventional Preparations

Select dosage with caution, usually starting at the low end of the dosage range, because of age-related decreases in hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and concomitant disease and drug therapy.

Oxycodone Hydrochloride Extended-release Tablets

Manufacturer states that usual doses and dosing intervals may be appropriate for geriatric patients; however, reduced initial dosage of 33–50% of the usual dosage recommended in geriatric patients who are debilitated and non-opiate-tolerant; adjust dosage carefully.

Oxycodone Myristate Extended-release Capsules

Manufacturer states that usual doses and dosing intervals may be appropriate for geriatric patients; nevertheless, select dosage with caution because of age-related decreases in hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and concomitant disease and drug therapy. Titrate dosage slowly.

Use alternative analgesic if required oxycodone dose is <9 mg.

Cautions for Oxycodone

Contraindications

Warnings/Precautions

Warnings

Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse

Risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse. Addiction can occur with appropriately prescribed or illicitly obtained opiates, and at recommended dosages or with misuse or abuse.

Assess each patient’s risk for addiction, abuse, and misuse prior to prescribing; monitor all patients for development of these behaviors or conditions. Personal or family history of substance abuse (drug or alcohol addiction or abuse) or mental illness (e.g., major depression) increases risk. The potential for addiction, abuse, and misuse should not prevent opiate prescribing for appropriate pain management, but does necessitate intensive counseling about risks and proper use and intensive monitoring for signs of addiction, abuse, and misuse.

Modified-release (e.g., extended-release) opiates are associated with a greater risk of overdose and death because of the larger amount of drug contained in each dosage unit.

Abuse or misuse of extended-release tablets containing oxycodone by crushing, cutting, breaking, or chewing the tablets, snorting the contents, or injecting the dissolved contents will result in uncontrolled delivery of oxycodone and can result in a fatal overdose. Snorting or injecting the dissolved contents of oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules also can result in a fatal overdose. The risk of toxicity is increased when used concomitantly with alcohol or other CNS depressants, including other opiates.

OxyContin extended-release tablets and Xtampza ER extended-release capsules are formulated with physical and chemical properties intended to make these dosage forms more difficult to manipulate for IV or intranasal abuse and misuse. However, abuse by these routes, as well as by the oral route, is still possible.

Prescribe in smallest appropriate quantity and instruct patients on secure storage and proper disposal to prevent theft.

Respiratory Depression

Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression reported with use of opiates, even when used as recommended; can occur at any time during therapy, but risk is greatest during initiation of therapy and following dosage increases. Monitor for respiratory depression, especially during first 24–72 hours of therapy and following any dosage increase.

Carbon dioxide retention from opiate-induced respiratory depression can exacerbate the drug's sedative effects.

Geriatric, cachectic, or debilitated patients are at increased risk of life-threatening respiratory depression. Closely monitor such patients, particularly following initiation of therapy, during dosage titration, and during concomitant therapy with other respiratory depressants. Consider use of nonopiate analgesics.

Even recommended doses of oxycodone may decrease respiratory drive to the point of apnea in patients with COPD or cor pulmonale, substantially decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxia, hypercapnia, or preexisting respiratory depression. Closely monitor such patients, particularly following initiation of therapy, during dosage titration, and during concomitant therapy with other respiratory depressants. Consider use of nonopiate analgesics.

Appropriate dosage selection and titration are essential to reduce the risk of respiratory depression. Overestimation of the dosage when transferring patients from another opiate analgesic can result in fatal overdosage with the first dose; large initial doses in nontolerant patients also can result in fatal overdosage.

Accidental ingestion of even 1 dose, especially by a child, can result in respiratory depression and fatal overdose.

Routinely discuss availability of the opiate antagonist naloxone with all patients receiving new or reauthorized prescriptions for opiate analgesics, including oxycodone.

Consider prescribing naloxone for patients receiving opiate analgesics who are at increased risk of opiate overdosage (e.g., those receiving concomitant therapy with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, those with history of opiate or substance use disorder, those with medical conditions that could increase sensitivity to opiate effects, those who have experienced a prior opiate overdose) or who have household members, including children, or other close contacts who are at risk for accidental ingestion or overdosage. Even if patients are not receiving an opiate analgesic, consider prescribing naloxone if the patient is at increased risk of opiate overdosage (e.g., those with current or past diagnosis of OUD, those who have experienced a prior opiate overdose).

Medication Errors with Oral Solutions

Use caution when prescribing, dispensing, and administering oral solutions of oxycodone to avoid dosing errors due to confusion between mg and mL or between oxycodone hydrochloride solution (5 mg/5 mL) and oxycodone hydrochloride concentrate solution (100 mg/5 mL). (See Medication Errors with Oral Solutions in Boxed Warning and see Oral Administration under Dosage and Administration.)

Use the oral concentrate solution only in opiate-tolerant patients.

Interactions with Drugs that Affect CYP3A4

Concomitant use of CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase plasma oxycodone concentrations, increasing or prolonging opiate effects and potentially resulting in fatal respiratory depression.

Concomitant use of CYP3A4 inducers may result in decreased plasma oxycodone concentrations, lack of efficacy, or manifestations of withdrawal. (See Drugs Affecting Hepatic Microsomal Enzymes under Interactions.)

Concomitant Use with Benzodiazepines or Other CNS Depressants

Concomitant use of opiates, including oxycodone, and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants (e.g., anxiolytics, sedatives, hypnotics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics, other opiate agonists, alcohol) may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Substantial proportion of fatal opiate overdoses involve concurrent benzodiazepine use.

Reserve concomitant use of oxycodone and other CNS depressants for patients in whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. (See Specific Drugs under Interactions.)

Sensitivity Reactions

Cross-sensitivity to Codeine

Anaphylactic reactions reported in patients with known sensitivity to codeine (structurally similar opiate). Frequency of this possible cross-sensitivity unknown.

Sulfite Sensitivity

Some formulations contain sulfites, which may cause allergic-type reactions (including anaphylaxis and life-threatening or less severe asthmatic episodes) in certain susceptible individuals.

Other Warnings and Precautions

Shares the toxic potentials of the opiate agonists; observe the usual precautions of opiate agonist therapy.

Only clinicians who are knowledgeable in the use of potent opiates for the management of chronic pain should prescribe oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets or oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules.

CNS Depression

Performance of activities requiring mental alertness and physical coordination may be impaired.

Concurrent use with other CNS depressants may result in profound sedation, coma, respiratory depression, or death. (See Interactions.)

Adrenal Insufficiency

Adrenal insufficiency reported in patients receiving opiate agonists or opiate partial agonists. Manifestations are nonspecific and may include nausea, vomiting, anorexia, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and hypotension.

If adrenal insufficiency is suspected, perform appropriate laboratory testing promptly and provide physiologic (replacement) dosages of corticosteroids; taper and discontinue the opiate agonist or partial agonist to allow recovery of adrenal function. If the opiate agonist or partial agonist can be discontinued, perform follow-up assessment of adrenal function to determine if corticosteroid replacement therapy can be discontinued. In some patients, switching to a different opiate improved symptoms.

Hypotension

May cause severe hypotension, including orthostatic hypotension and syncope, in ambulatory patients, especially in individuals whose ability to maintain their BP is compromised by depleted blood volume or concomitant use of certain drugs that compromise vasomotor tone (e.g., phenothiazines, general anesthetics). (See Interactions.)

Vasodilation produced by the drug may further reduce cardiac output and BP in patients with circulatory shock. Use oxycodone with caution in such patients; manufacturers recommend avoiding use of oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets and oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules.

Increased Intracranial Pressure or Head Trauma

May reduce respiratory drive and further increase intracranial pressure in patients with increased intracranial pressure, head injuries, brain tumors, or other intracranial lesions. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression, particularly during initiation of therapy.

May obscure the clinical course in patients with head injuries.

Avoid use of oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets and oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules in patients with impaired consciousness or coma.

GI Complications with Extended-release Tablets

Some patients report difficulty in swallowing oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets (e.g., choking, gagging, regurgitation, tablet stuck in throat). (See Oral Administration under Dosage and Administration.)

Intestinal obstruction and exacerbation of diverticulitis reported rarely; sometimes requires medical intervention to remove the tablet. Risk increased in patients with underlying GI disorders (e.g., esophageal or colon cancer) associated with narrow GI lumen.

Consider using an alternative analgesic in patients who have difficulty swallowing and in those at risk for underlying GI disorders associated with narrow GI lumen.

Same precautions also apply to oxycodone hydrochloride/acetaminophen extended-release tablets since these tablets swell and become sticky when wet.

Acute Abdominal Conditions

May obscure diagnosis or clinical course of patients with acute abdominal conditions.

Obstructive Bowel Disease

Diminishes propulsive peristaltic waves in GI tract and decreases bowel motility; may prolong GI obstructions.

Contraindicated in patients with GI obstruction, including paralytic ileus.

Monitor postoperative patients receiving opiates for decreased bowel motility.

Pancreatic and Biliary Disease

May cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi and increase serum amylase concentrations; monitor patients with biliary disease, including acute pancreatitis.

Seizure Disorders

May aggravate preexisting seizure disorder. Monitor for worsened seizure control.

May induce or aggravate seizures in other settings associated with seizures.

Debilitated and Special Risk Patients

Increased risk of life-threatening respiratory depression in geriatric, cachectic, or debilitated patients and in patients with chronic pulmonary disease. (See Respiratory Depression under Cautions.)

Use with caution and in reduced dosage in patients with hypothyroidism, Addison’s disease, prostatic hypertrophy, or urethral stricture. Also use with caution in those with toxic psychosis, acute alcoholism, or delirium tremens.

Urine Testing for Opiates

Presence of oxycodone not reliably detected by all urine drug tests for opiates, especially those designed for in-office use; urine drug concentrations below a specified value may be reported as negative results. If urine testing for oxycodone is used in patient management, consider the limitations of testing and ensure appropriate assay sensitivity and specificity.

Hypogonadism

Hypogonadism or androgen deficiency reported in patients receiving long-term opiate agonist or opiate partial agonist therapy; causality not established. Manifestations may include decreased libido, impotence, erectile dysfunction, amenorrhea, or infertility. Perform appropriate laboratory testing in patients with manifestations of hypogonadism.

Fixed-Combination Preparations

When used in fixed combination with other drugs, consider the cautions, precautions, and contraindications associated with the other drug.

Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Category B or C.

Analysis of data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (large population-based, case-control study) suggests therapeutic use of opiates in pregnant women during organogenesis is associated with a low absolute risk of birth defects, including heart defects, spina bifida, and gastroschisis.

Use of opiates in pregnant women during labor can result in neonatal respiratory depression.

Prolonged maternal use of opiates during pregnancy can result in neonatal opiate withdrawal syndrome; in contrast to adults, withdrawal syndrome in neonates may be life-threatening and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts. Syndrome presents with irritability, hyperactivity and abnormal sleep pattern, high-pitched cry, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea, and failure to gain weight. Onset, duration, and severity vary depending on the specific opiate used, duration of use, timing and amount of last maternal use, and rate of drug elimination by the neonate.

Lactation

Distributed into milk.

Avoid use in nursing women. If used, observe infant for GI effects, sedation, respiratory depression, and changes in feeding patterns.

Symptoms of withdrawal can occur in opiate-dependent breast-fed infants upon cessation of breast-feeding by women receiving oxycodone.

Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy of oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets not established in children <11 years of age.

Safety and efficacy of other preparations not established in children; however, the drug is recommended for use in pediatric patients. (See Pediatric Dosage under Dosage and Administration.)

Geriatric Use

Possible increased sensitivity to the drug's effects. Increased risk of respiratory depression.

Clearance may be slightly reduced in geriatric patients. (See Absorption: Special Populations, under Pharmacokinetics.)

Select dosage with caution. (See Geriatric Patients under Dosage and Administration.) Monitor closely for adverse effects, especially during initiation of therapy and dosage titration and when used concomitantly with other respiratory depressants.

Hepatic Impairment

Increased systemic exposure; drug effects may be increased. (See Absorption: Special Populations, under Pharmacokinetics.)

Use with caution. Use conservative initial dosage, monitor closely, and adjust dosage based on response. (See Hepatic Impairment under Dosage and Administration.)

Renal Impairment

Increased systemic exposure with increased sedation reported. (See Absorption: Special Populations, under Pharmacokinetics.)

Use with caution. Use conservative initial dosage, monitor closely, and adjust dosage based on response. (See Renal Impairment under Dosage and Administration.)

Common Adverse Effects

Constipation, nausea, sedation/somnolence, dizziness, lightheadedness, vomiting, pruritus, headache, insomnia, dry mouth, sweating, asthenia.

Drug Interactions

Metabolized by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by CYP2D6.

Drugs Affecting Hepatic Microsomal Enzymes

CYP3A4 inhibitors: Possible decreased clearance and increased plasma concentrations of oxycodone; may result in increased or prolonged opiate effects, including potentially fatal respiratory depression. These effects may be more pronounced with concomitant use of CYP2D6 and 3A4 inhibitors. If concomitant use of oxycodone and CYP3A4 inhibitor is necessary, monitor frequently for respiratory depression and sedation; consider dosage adjustments until drug effects are stable. If CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, monitor frequently for withdrawal symptoms and/or reduced analgesic efficacy and adjust oxycodone dosage as needed.

CYP3A4 inducers: Possible increased clearance and decreased plasma concentrations of oxycodone; may result in decreased analgesic efficacy and/or development of opiate withdrawal. If concomitant use is necessary, monitor for opiate withdrawal; consider dosage adjustments until drug effects are stable. If CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, oxycodone concentrations may increase, potentially resulting in increased or prolonged therapeutic or adverse effects, including potentially fatal respiratory depression. If CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, monitor for increased opiate effects and adjust oxycodone dosage as needed.

CYP2D6 inhibitors: Clinically important effects on oxycodone metabolism not demonstrated.

Drugs Associated with Serotonin Syndrome

Risk of serotonin syndrome when used with other serotonergic drugs. May occur at usual dosages. Symptom onset generally occurs within several hours to a few days of concomitant use, but may occur later, particularly after dosage increases. (See Advice to Patients.)

If concomitant use of other serotonergic drugs is warranted, monitor patients for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases.

If serotonin syndrome is suspected, discontinue oxycodone, other opiate therapy, and/or any concurrently administered serotonergic agents.

Specific Drugs

Drug

Interaction

Comments

Anticholinergic agents

Possible increased risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus

Monitor for urinary retention or reduced gastric motility

Antidepressants, SSRIs (e.g., citalopram, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, sertraline), SNRIs (e.g., desvenlafaxine, duloxetine, milnacipran, venlafaxine), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), mirtazapine, nefazodone, trazodone, vilazodone

Risk of serotonin syndrome

Fluoxetine: Clinically important effects on oxycodone metabolism unlikely

If concomitant use warranted, monitor for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases

If serotonin syndrome suspected, discontinue oxycodone, the antidepressant, and/or any concurrently administered opiates or serotonergic agents

Antiemetics, 5-HT3 receptor antagonists (e.g., dolasetron, granisetron, ondansetron, palonosetron)

Risk of serotonin syndrome

If concomitant use warranted, monitor for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases

If serotonin syndrome suspected, discontinue oxycodone, the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, and/or any concurrently administered opiates or serotonergic agents

Antifungals, azole (ketoconazole, voriconazole)

Ketoconazole: Increased peak concentrations and AUC of oxycodone by 100 and 170%, respectively

Voriconazole: Increased peak concentrations and AUC of oxycodone by 1.7- and 3.6-fold, respectively

Monitor frequently for respiratory depression and sedation; consider dosage adjustments until drug effects are stable

If antifungal is discontinued, monitor for withdrawal symptoms; consider oxycodone dosage adjustments until drug effects are stable

Antipsychotics (e.g., aripiprazole, asenapine, cariprazine, chlorpromazine, clozapine, fluphenazine, haloperidol, iloperidone, loxapine, lurasidone, molindone, olanzapine, paliperidone, perphenazine, pimavanserin, quetiapine, risperidone, thioridazine, thiothixene, trifluoperazine, ziprasidone)

Risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension, coma, or death

Use concomitantly only if alternative treatment options are inadequate; use lowest effective dosages and shortest possible duration of concomitant therapy

In patients receiving oxycodone, initiate antipsychotic, if required, at lower dosage than indicated in the absence of opiate therapy and titrate based on clinical response

In patients receiving an antipsychotic, initiate oxycodone, if required, at reduced dosage and titrate based on clinical response

Monitor closely for respiratory depression and sedation

Benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, clobazam, clonazepam, clorazepate, diazepam, estazolam, flurazepam, lorazepam, midazolam, oxazepam, quazepam, temazepam, triazolam)

Risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension, coma, or death

Whenever possible, avoid concomitant use

Use concomitantly only if alternative treatment options are inadequate; use lowest effective dosages and shortest possible duration of concomitant therapy

In patients receiving oxycodone, initiate benzodiazepine, if required for any indication other than epilepsy, at lower dosage than indicated in the absence of opiate therapy and titrate based on clinical response

In patients receiving a benzodiazepine, initiate oxycodone, if required, at reduced dosage and titrate based on clinical response

Monitor closely for respiratory depression and sedation

Consider prescribing naloxone for patients receiving opiates and benzodiazepines concomitantly

Buspirone

Risk of serotonin syndrome

If concomitant use warranted, monitor for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases

If serotonin syndrome suspected, discontinue oxycodone, buspirone, and/or any concurrently administered opiates or serotonergic agents

CNS depressants (e.g., other opiate agonists, anxiolytics, general anesthetics, tranquilizers, phenothiazines, alcohol)

Additive CNS effects; increased risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension, coma, or death

Use concomitantly only if alternative treatment options are inadequate; use lowest effective dosages and shortest possible duration of concomitant therapy

In patients receiving oxycodone, initiate CNS depressant, if required for any indication other than epilepsy, at lower dosage than indicated in the absence of opiate therapy and titrate based on clinical response

In patients receiving a CNS depressant, initiate oxycodone, if required, at reduced dosage and titrate based on clinical response

Oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets: Initiate therapy using 33–50% of the usual dosage

Oxycodone hydrochloride/acetaminophen extended-release tablets: Initiate therapy using 50% of usual dosage (i.e., give oxycodone hydrochloride 7.5 mg [with acetaminophen 325 mg] every 12 hours)

Monitor closely for respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension

Consider prescribing naloxone for patients receiving opiates and other CNS depressants concomitantly

Avoid alcohol use

Dextromethorphan

Risk of serotonin syndrome

If concomitant use warranted, monitor for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases

If serotonin syndrome suspected, discontinue oxycodone, dextromethorphan, and/or any concurrently administered opiates or serotonergic agents

Diuretics

Opiates may decrease diuretic efficacy by inducing vasopressin release

Monitor for reduced diuretic and/or BP effects; increase diuretic dosage as needed

5-HT1 receptor agonists (triptans; e.g., almotriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, zolmitriptan)

Risk of serotonin syndrome

If concomitant use warranted, monitor for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases

If serotonin syndrome suspected, discontinue oxycodone, the triptan, and/or any concurrently administered opiates or serotonergic agents

Lithium

Risk of serotonin syndrome

If concomitant use warranted, monitor for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases

If serotonin syndrome suspected, discontinue oxycodone, lithium, and/or any concurrently administered opiates or serotonergic agents

MAO inhibitors (e.g., isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine)

Risk of serotonin syndrome

Potentiation of opiates reported; possible anxiety, confusion, respiratory depression, or coma

Some manufacturers recommend allowing 14 days to elapse following discontinuance of MAO inhibitor and initiation of oxycodone

If concomitant use warranted, monitor for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases

If serotonin syndrome suspected, discontinue oxycodone, the MAO inhibitor, and/or any concurrently administered opiates or serotonergic agents

Neuromuscular blocking agents

Possible enhanced neuromuscular blocking effect resulting in increased respiratory depression

Monitor for respiratory depression; reduce dosage of one or both agents as necessary

Opiate partial agonists (butorphanol, buprenorphine, nalbuphine, pentazocine)

Possible reduced analgesic effect and/or withdrawal symptoms

Use with caution; some manufacturers recommend avoiding concomitant use

Quinidine

Clinically important effects on oxycodone metabolism unlikely

Rifampin

Decreased peak concentrations and AUC of oxycodone by 63 and 86%, respectively

Monitor for opiate withdrawal; consider dosage adjustments until drug effects are stable

If rifampin is discontinued, monitor for increased opiate effects (e.g., respiratory depression); adjust oxycodone dosage as necessary

Sedative/hypnotic agents (e.g., butabarbital, eszopiclone, pentobarbital, ramelteon, secobarbital, suvorexant, zaleplon, zolpidem)

Risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension, coma, or death

Use concomitantly only if alternative treatment options are inadequate; use lowest effective dosages and shortest possible duration of concomitant therapy

In patients receiving oxycodone, initiate sedative/hypnotic, if required, at lower dosage than indicated in the absence of opiate therapy and titrate based on clinical response

In patients receiving a sedative/hypnotic, initiate oxycodone, if required, at reduced dosage and titrate based on clinical response

Monitor closely for respiratory depression and sedation

Skeletal muscle relaxants (e.g., baclofen, carisoprodol, chlorzoxazone, cyclobenzaprine, dantrolene, metaxalone, methocarbamol, orphenadrine, tizanidine)

Risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension, coma, or death

Cyclobenzaprine: Risk of serotonin syndrome

Use concomitantly only if alternative treatment options are inadequate; use lowest effective dosages and shortest possible duration of concomitant therapy

In patients receiving oxycodone, initiate skeletal muscle relaxant, if required, at lower dosage than indicated in the absence of opiate therapy and titrate based on clinical response

In patients receiving a skeletal muscle relaxant, initiate oxycodone, if required, at reduced dosage and titrate based on clinical response

Monitor closely for respiratory depression and sedation

Cyclobenzaprine: If concomitant use warranted, monitor for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases

If serotonin syndrome suspected, discontinue oxycodone, cyclobenzaprine, and/or any concurrently administered opiates or serotonergic agents

St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Risk of serotonin syndrome

If concomitant use warranted, monitor for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases

If serotonin syndrome suspected, discontinue oxycodone, St. John’s wort, and/or any concurrently administered opiates or serotonergic agents

Tryptophan

Risk of serotonin syndrome

If concomitant use warranted, monitor for serotonin syndrome, particularly during initiation of therapy and dosage increases

If serotonin syndrome suspected, discontinue oxycodone, tryptophan, and/or any concurrently administered opiates or serotonergic agents

Oxycodone Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

Bioavailability

Following oral administration, about 60–87% of an oral dose reaches the systemic circulation.

Oxycodone hydrochloride/acetaminophen extended-release tablets: Bilayer formulation that contains a portion of the labeled doses of the 2 drugs in an immediate-release layer and the remaining portion in an extended-release layer. Bioavailability (dose-normalized AUC and peak plasma concentration) of oxycodone is comparable to that of conventional preparations.

Relative oral bioavailability of oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets to conventional oral dosage forms is the same.

Relative oral bioavailability of oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules to an oral solution of the drug is lower in the fasting state (75%) but comparable in the fed state (114%). Mean peak serum concentrations are lower (73 and 43% lower under fasting and fed conditions, respectively) and peak concentrations occur about 3 hours later with the extended-release capsules compared with oral solution in the fasting state.

Oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules are not bioequivalent to oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets. Under fasting conditions, peak serum concentration and AUC are lower for extended-release capsules; under fed conditions, peak serum concentrations are lower, but AUC is similar to values for extended-release tablets.

Peak plasma concentrations occur within 1.2–1.4 hours for conventional oral dosage forms.

Peak oxycodone concentrations occur in 3–4 hours for extended-release oxycodone hydrochloride/acetaminophen tablets.

Peak concentrations occur in approximately 4.5 hours for oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules under fed conditions.

Onset

Conventional preparations: Analgesia within 10–15 minutes; peak at about 1 hour.

Oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets: Analgesia within 1 hour; peak effect also may occur at this time but persists.

Duration

Conventional preparations: Analgesia persists for 3–6 hours.

Food

Oxycodone hydrochloride tablets and oral solution: Effects of food on rate or extent of absorption not expected to be clinically important.

Oxycodone hydrochloride/acetaminophen extended-release tablets: Low-fat or high-fat meal delays peak oxycodone concentrations by 1 or 2 hours, respectively; increases mean AUC by 15–16%; and increases peak concentrations by 12–25%.

Oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets: Food does not affect extent of absorption.

Oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules: Food increases bioavailability; effect is dependent on content of meal. High-fat, high-calorie meal increases peak concentration and AUC by 100–150 and 50–60%, respectively; medium-fat, medium-calorie meal increases peak concentration and AUC by 84 and 28%, respectively; low-fat, low-calorie meal increases peak concentration by 19% but does not affect AUC.

Pharmacokinetic profile for contents of extended-release capsule sprinkled on food is equivalent to that for intact capsule administered with food.

Special Populations

Mild to moderate hepatic impairment: Peak plasma concentrations of oxycodone and noroxycodone increased by 50 and 20%, respectively, and AUCs increased by 95 and 65%, respectively. Peak concentrations and AUCs of oxymorphone decreased by 30 and 40%, respectively.

Renal impairment (Clcr <60 mL/minute): Peak concentrations of oxycodone and noroxycodone increased by 50 and 20%, respectively; AUCs for oxycodone, noroxycodone, and oxymorphone increased by 60, 50, and 40%, respectively.

Geriatric patients: Plasma concentrations not increased or increased only minimally (by 15%).

Pediatric patients ≥11 years of age: Systemic exposure to oxycodone (administered as oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets) expected to be similar to that in adults at any given dosage.

Females: Plasma concentrations following administration of oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets or oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules reportedly up to 20–25% higher than in males (after accounting for differences in body weight and/or body mass index). Gender apparently does not affect pharmacokinetics of the immediate-release tablets.

Distribution

Extent

Distributed to skeletal muscle, liver, intestinal tract, lungs, spleen, and brain.

Readily crosses the placenta.

Distributes into milk.

Plasma Protein Binding

About 45%.

Elimination

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver to noroxycodone, oxymorphone, and noroxymorphone, and their glucuronide conjugates.

Metabolized by CYP3A to noroxycodone and, to a lesser extent, by CYP2D6 to oxymorphone. Oxymorphone is present in low concentrations following oxycodone administration and not thought to contribute substantially to analgesic effects.

Elimination Route

Oxycodone and its metabolites excreted principally in urine.

Half-life

Conventional preparations: 3–5 hours.

Oxycodone hydrochloride/acetaminophen extended-release tablets: 4.5 hours.

Oxycodone hydrochloride extended-release tablets: 4.5 hours.

Oxycodone myristate extended-release capsules (under fed conditions): 5.6 hours.

Special Populations

Renal impairment: Elimination half-life increased by 1 hour compared with normal renal function. Exposure to the drug increased substantially. (See Special Populations, under Cautions.)

Mild to moderate hepatic impairment: Elimination half-life increased by 2.3 hours compared with normal hepatic function. Exposure to oxycodone and noroxycodone increased. (See Special Populations, under Cautions.)

Stability

Storage

Oral

Conventional or Extended-release Preparations

Room temperature; consult manufacturer's labeling for specific storage recommendations.

Actions

Advice to Patients

Preparations

Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.

Please refer to the ASHP Drug Shortages Resource Center for information on shortages of one or more of these preparations.

Oxycodone preparations are subject to control under the Federal Controlled Substances Act of 1970 as schedule II (C-II) drugs.

* available from one or more manufacturer, distributor, and/or repackager by generic (nonproprietary) name

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride

Routes

Dosage Forms

Strengths

Brand Names

Manufacturer

Oral

Capsules

5 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride Capsules (C-II)

Solution

5 mg/5 mL*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride Oral Solution (C-II)

100 mg/5 mL*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride Oral Concentrate Solution (C-II)

Tablets

5 mg*

Oxaydo (C-II)

Egalet

Oxecta (C-II)

Pfizer

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride Tablets (C-II)

Roxicodone (C-II; scored)

Mallinckrodt

7.5 mg

Oxaydo (C-II)

Egalet

Oxecta (C-II)

Pfizer

10 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride Tablets (C-II)

15 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride Tablets (C-II)

Roxicodone (C-II; scored)

Mallinckrodt

20 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride Tablets (C-II)

30 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride Tablets (C-II)

Roxicodone (C-II)

Mallinckrodt

Tablets, extended-release

10 mg

OxyCONTIN (C-II)

Purdue

15 mg

OxyCONTIN (C-II)

Purdue

20 mg

OxyCONTIN (C-II)

Purdue

30 mg

OxyCONTIN (C-II)

Purdue

40 mg

OxyCONTIN (C-II)

Purdue

60 mg

OxyCONTIN (C-II)

Purdue

80 mg

OxyCONTIN (C-II)

Purdue

* available from one or more manufacturer, distributor, and/or repackager by generic (nonproprietary) name

oxyCODONE and Acetaminophen

Routes

Dosage Forms

Strengths

Brand Names

Manufacturer

Oral

Solution

5 mg/5 mL Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen 325 mg/5 mL

Roxicet (C-II)

Roxane

Tablets

2.5 mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen 300 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen Tablets (C-II)

2.5 mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen 325 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen Tablets (C-II)

Percocet (C-II)

Endo

5 mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen 300 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen Tablets

Primlev (C-II)

Akrimax

5 mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen 325 mg*

Endocet (C-II; scored)

Qualitest

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen Tablets (C-II)

Percocet (C-II; scored)

Endo

7.5 mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen 300 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen Tablets (C-II)

Primlev (C-II)

Akrimax

7.5 mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen 325 mg*

Endocet (C-II)

Qualitest

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen Tablets (C-II)

Percocet (C-II)

Endo

10 mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen 300 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen Tablets (C-II)

Primlev (C-II)

Akrimax

10 mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen 325 mg*

Endocet (C-II)

Qualitest

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen Tablets (C-II)

Percocet (C-II)

Endo

Tablets, extended-release, film-coated

7.5 mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen 325 mg

Xartemis XR (C-II)

Mallinckrodt

* available from one or more manufacturer, distributor, and/or repackager by generic (nonproprietary) name

oxyCODONE and Aspirin

Routes

Dosage Forms

Strengths

Brand Names

Manufacturer

Oral

Tablets

4.835 mg Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Aspirin 325 mg*

Endodan (C-II; scored)

Endo

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride and Aspirin Tablets (C-II)

* available from one or more manufacturer, distributor, and/or repackager by generic (nonproprietary) name

Other oxyCODONE Hydrochloride Combinations

Routes

Dosage Forms

Strengths

Brand Names

Manufacturer

Oral

Tablets, film-coated

5 mg with Ibuprofen 400 mg*

oxyCODONE Hydrochloride and Ibuprofen Film-coated Tablets (C-II)

oxyCODONE Myristate

Routes

Dosage Forms

Strengths

Brand Names

Manufacturer

Oral

Capsules, extended-release

9 mg (of oxycodone [equivalent to 10 mg oxycodone hydrochloride])

Xtampza ER (C-II)

Collegium

13.5 mg (of oxycodone [equivalent to 15 mg oxycodone hydrochloride])

Xtampza ER (C-II)

Collegium

18 mg (of oxycodone [equivalent to 20 mg oxycodone hydrochloride])

Xtampza ER (C-II)

Collegium

27 mg (of oxycodone [equivalent to 30 mg oxycodone hydrochloride])

Xtampza ER (C-II)

Collegium

36 mg (of oxycodone [equivalent to 40 mg oxycodone hydrochloride])

Xtampza ER (C-II)

Collegium

AHFS DI Essentials™. © Copyright 2024, Selected Revisions April 19, 2023. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 4500 East-West Highway, Suite 900, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.

† Off-label: Use is not currently included in the labeling approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.

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