OxyContin Overview

What is OxyContin?

OxyContin is prescribed for patients experiencing severe pain related to chronic back pain and cancer. A time release medication, this drug is intended to be taken twice a day and should not be administered to people suffering from pain shortly after surgery. OxyContin is a narcotic opioid and, with extended use, may cause physical or mental dependence. This drug can be very dangerous and may lead to death if taken by a child or pet. Be sure to store OxyContin away from those who may abuse this drug.

What Drug Interactions Should I Avoid When Taking OxyContin?

Many other drugs are not safe when taken with OxyContin. Your doctor will be able to determine whether or not your current medication will interact with this drug. If you are taking other pain relievers, your physician may need to adjust your dosage. Since OxyContin causes drowsiness in many patients, you should use caution when using this drug with other substances that promote sleepiness. Your doctor will want to know if you are currently using blood pressure medication, MAO inhibitors, sodium oxybate, muscle relaxants, or cimetidine and SSRI antidepressants. If you require any non-prescription drugs, consult your pharmacist to see if the ingredients will create any adverse effects when interacting with OxyContin.

What are the Side Effects of OxyContin?

You should notify your doctor if you have any side effects that are overwhelming or severe, such as vision changes, problems breathing, irregular heartbeat, stomach pain that is chronic or dizziness that prevents you from standing. Certain side effects are common and unless they persist are not considered dangerous:

Drowsiness
Mild itching
Lightheadedness
Dry mouth
Constipation
Vomiting
Nausea
Weakness
Loss of appetite

In the event that you experience symptoms that are increasingly uncomfortable, tell your doctor immediately.

What Else Should I Know When Taking OxyContin?

If you are allergic to any prescription medications, especially opioid-based drugs like OxyContin, you should avoid this drug at all costs. Patients who have suffered from bowel diseases, head injuries, seizures or respiratory problems will need to disclose this to their healthcare professional. A complete medical history should be shared with your physician before you use OxyContin. It is strongly advised that you avoid any type of alcoholic beverages while taking OxyContin. It is imperative that you not drive or use any type of heavy machinery until you are aware of how OxyContin will affect you. An overdose of OxyContin requires immediate medical assistance. Prolonged use of OxyContin in pregnant women may result in the infant experiencing withdrawal symptoms after birth. Diarrhea, persistent crying, vomiting and overall irritability are common signs of withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. In the event that you require surgery, tell your dentist or surgeon that you are taking OxyContin for pain relief.

How Does Meditox Treat OxyContin Addiction?

You can become free from your OxyContin addiction in as few as six weeks through our opiate addiction treatment program at Meditox. Our program is designed for people seeking an addiction treatment that is effective, yet can be implemented on an outpatient basis. The doctors at Meditox make use of the FDA-approved drugs, Suboxone and Subutex, to help you avoid the bulk of the withdrawal symptoms that accompany any OxyContin detox. Our OxyContin addiction treatment program will be customized for you and has already helped thousands get their life back from drug addiction. Don't hesitate. Call Meditox today and schedule a confidential evaluation. See for yourself how Meditox can help you.

If you feel that Meditox might be the right solution for you or your loved one, please call us for a toll-free and private consultation:

Additional Resources

Drug Enforcement Agency: OxyContin Information
U.S. Food and Drug Administration: OxyContin Questions and Answers

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August 11, 2006

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