Oxycodone is an active ingredient from the group of opioids, which also include, for example, fentanyl, methadone, morphine, tilidine or tramadol. Just like many other opioids, oxycodone is used to treat severe and very severe pain. So far, the active ingredient is little known in Europe. However, since it is said to have fewer side effects than other opioids, it is now used more and more frequently and you can even buy oxycodone online now.
Effects of oxycodone
Oxycodone works on various opioid receptors in the brain and can effectively relieve severe to very severe pain. Its analgesic effect is said to be about twice as strong as that of morphine. In addition, the opioid has a calming and sleep-inducing effect - however, its effect is to be assessed as weaker than that of morphine.
Oxycodone also has a depressant effect on the cough center and in this respect is similar to the active ingredient codeine . Nowadays, however, dihydrocodeine is used instead of oxycodone.
Side effects of oxycodone
Compared to other opioids, oxycodone was used relatively little in Germany for a long time. For several years, however, more and more pain patients have been prescribed the active ingredient, as it is said to have fewer side effects than other opioids. Scientific studies that confirm this are still pending. As with other opioids, however, the consumption of oxycodone is associated with a high risk of addiction.
Common side effects of the active ingredient include tiredness, dizziness, headache, nausea and constipation . Mood changes (anxiety, euphoria, depression), sleep disorders, drowsiness and confusion also often occur . In addition, oxycodone can have a number of other side effects - a full list can be found in the package insert for your medication.
Overdose of oxycodone
An overdose of oxycodone can lead to reduced function of the respiratory center, a drop in blood pressure and reduced tension in the skeletal muscles. Circulatory failure, unconsciousness and the onset of respiratory paralysis are also possible. If you have taken too high a dose of the active ingredient, you should always notify a doctor immediately.
Oxycodon and Naloxone
Oxycodone is available in various drug forms - including tablets, capsules, prolonged-release tablets, suppositories and injection solutions. There is also a combination preparation that also contains the opioid antagonist naloxone.
The combination of the two active ingredients is intended to reduce certain side effects such as constipation. When taken orally, naloxone only develops its effect in the intestine and not in the central nervous system. This allows oxycodone to work undisturbed in the brain, while its effect in the intestine is weakened.
Avoid withdrawal symptoms
If oxycodone is taken over a long period of time, withdrawal symptoms may occur after stopping the drug. To avoid this side effect as much as possible, you should reduce the dose gradually.
In order not to jeopardize the success of the treatment, you should only discontinue the opioid after consulting your doctor. Do not end the therapy on your own.
Contraindications to oxycodone
Oxycodone must not be taken if there is hypersensitivity to the active ingredient. In addition, the opioid may not be used if
severe respiratory depression is present.
You have intestinal paralysis.
have severe COPD or bronchial asthma.
You are pregnant or breastfeeding your child.
You have acute, severe abdominal pain ( acute abdomen ) or delayed gastric emptying.
If you have any of the following conditions, you should only take oxycodone after your doctor has carefully considered the costs and benefits:
Functional restrictions or diseases of the liver, kidneys, pancreas, gall bladder, lungs, adrenal cortex, thyroid or prostate
Obstructive Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Circulatory dysfunction
Alcohol or opioid addiction
epilepsy
Older or weakened patients should also seek advice from their doctor before taking the active ingredient.
