Oxycodone

What is oxycodone?

Oxycodone is a strong prescription painkiller used to treat moderate to severe pain. It belongs to a group of medicines called opioids[1]. 

What is oxycodone used to treat?

It is prescribed when[1]: 

• Weaker painkillers (like paracetamol or ibuprofen) are not effective 

• Managing long-term pain due to cancer or serious injury 

• Treating post-operative pain or severe short-term pain (e.g. after surgery) 

Oxycodone is available under brand names such as OxyContin, Oxypro, Shortec, and Longtec. 

How does oxycodone work?

Oxycodone works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. This alters how the body perceives and responds to pain, helping to relieve discomfort. It doesn’t treat the underlying cause of pain but helps manage the symptoms[1]. 

Who can take oxycodone?

Oxycodone can be taken by adults and by children, but only in certain cases and under specialist care as children are more likely to experience side effects[1]. 

It may not be suitable if you[1]: 

• Have breathing difficulties (e.g., COPD or asthma) 

• Have liver or kidney problems 

• Have a history of drug or alcohol misuse 

• Have a history of seizures or fits 

• Have an enlarged prostate 

• Have low blood pressure 

• Have hyperthyroidism 

• Have had recent stomach surgery or bowel problems 

• Have mental health conditions affected by certain medicines 

• Are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding 

• Are taking certain other medications (e.g., benzodiazepines) 

• Are allergic to oxycodone 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

What is the typical dose of oxycodone?

Oxycodone comes in various forms[1]: 

• A range of strengths of Immediate-release tablets or capsules (e.g., Oxypro): suitable for fast pain relief. 

• A range in strengths of modified-release tablets or capsules (e.g., OxyContin and Zomorph): for ongoing, long-term pain giving constant pain relief. 

• 5mg in 5ml or 10mg in 1ml of liquid: for people who have difficulty swallowing 

• Injectable vials for immediate relief and the patient is not able to take medication orally 

Dosage varies widely depending on[1]: 

• Pain severity 

• Individual response 

• Whether you’ve taken opioids before 

You'll usually start on a low dose that can be increased gradually if necessary. Always take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible, taking no more than prescribed[1]. 

How do you take oxycodone?

Oxycodone is a high risk medication as it is highly addictive and dangerous in overdose, therefore take oxycodone exactly as prescribed – never more than instructed[1]: 

• Swallow tablets whole with water (do not crush or chew modified-release tablets) 

• Follow timing instructions – immediate-release is often taken every 4-6 hours, while modified-release is usually taken every 12 hours, and at the same time every day 

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking oxycodone. Also avoid grapefruit juice, as it can affect the strength of the drug in your blood. 

Can you stop taking oxycodone?

You should not stop taking oxycodone suddenly. Doing so can cause withdrawal symptoms such as[1]: 

• Anxiety 

• Sweating 

• Shaking 

• Panic attacks 

• Heart palpitations 

• Nausea 

• Trouble sleeping 

If you no longer need it, your doctor will help you reduce the dose gradually. 

What do you do if you take too much oxycodone?

Taking too much oxycodone is very dangerous and can lead to[1]: 

• Breathing problems 

• Extreme drowsiness 

• Loss of consciousness 

• Death 

If you or someone else may have overdosed, call 999 or go to A&E immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen. 

What if you forget to take a dose of oxycodone?

What you should do depends on the formulation you’re taking[1]: 

• Immediate-release: This includes the liquid medicine and immediate release tablets. Take the dose as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one. 

• Modified-release: If you miss a dose by more than a few hours, contact your doctor for advice. 

Never take two doses at once. 

Medicines you can and can’t take with oxycodone

Oxycodone can interact with several medicines, including[1]: 

• Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam): increased risk of sedation and breathing problems 

• Certain painkillers that contain codeine 

• Sleeping tablets or muscle relaxants 

• Antidepressants, anti-anxieties, or antipsychotics 

• Anti-sickness medicines 

• Epilepsy medication 

• Other opioids or alcohol 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of oxycodone?

The most common side effects include[1]: 

• Constipation (very common – you may need a laxative) 

• Drowsiness or dizziness 

• Confusion 

• Nausea or vomiting 

• Headaches 

• Stomach discomfort 

• Itchiness or a rash 

• Dry mouth 

The rarer but more serious side effects include[1]: 

• Breathing difficulties 

• Low blood pressure 

• Muscle stiffness or seizures 

• Addiction, dependence, or withdrawal symptoms 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include: 

• Difficulty breathing 

• Tightness in throat and chest 

• Swelling of the tongue or throat 

• Feeling faint or dizzy 

• Blue/grey skin or lips 

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about oxycodone

Is oxycodone addictive? 
Yes, it can be. Only take it exactly as prescribed. Never increase your dose without medical advice[1]. 

Can I drive while taking oxycodone? 
Not at first. Oxycodone can cause drowsiness and impair judgment. You must inform the DVLA if you're taking it long-term[1]. 

Can I drink alcohol? 
No. Alcohol increases the risk of dangerous side effects like drowsiness, breathing problems, or overdose[1]. 

How long does oxycodone take to work? 
Immediate-release oxycodone starts working within 30-60 minutes. Modified-release versions provide pain control over 12 hours or more[1]. 

Can I take it during pregnancy or breastfeeding? 
Only take it if your doctor decides it’s absolutely necessary. It can affect your baby, especially if taken long-term or near delivery[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to oxycodone, visit their website.