Oxycodone can be defined as an opioid analgesic drug that is used to relieve chronic pain. Oxycodone is a potent prescription opioid pain reliever classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and addiction. Commonly prescribed to manage moderate to severe pain, Oxycodone affects the brain by binding to opioid receptors, altering the way your body senses and responds to pain.

It was first introduced in the United States in 1939 and has since gained significant popularity in the medical community. Alongside its therapeutic benefits, it unfortunately also became widely misused and abused, leading to profound consequences for many individuals. When taken in high doses or without medical supervision, it can cause drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, constipation and even respiratory depression. Long-term abuse of this drug can lead to addiction, greatly impacting one’s physical and mental well-being.

Oxycodone is available in various forms including solution, concentrated solution, regular and extended-release tablets and capsules. Regular doses are typically taken every 4-6 hours with or without food, while extended-release forms are taken every 12 hours with food for capsules. Special instructions include swallowing Oxaydo tablets whole with water and the option to mix extended-release capsule contents with soft food for easier consumption. The dosage is initially low and may be adjusted over time for effective pain management and to address tolerance. It’s important to gradually discontinue oxycodone under medical supervision to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Although oxycodone is also available in combination with other pain relievers, this summary focuses on the use of oxycodone alone, emphasising the importance of doctor consultation for dosage management and side effect monitoring.

Oxycodone Overdose

In a medical emergency, immediately contact your local medical response team. Opioids, which impact the brain area responsible for regulating breathing, can lead to fatal outcomes. The common indicators of an opioid overdose include pinpoint pupils, unconsciousness and difficulty in breathing. In the absence of a naloxone kit, continue with rescue breathing until the arrival of emergency services like an ambulance. When more than one person is available, take turns in administering rescue breathing since it can be physically demanding.

Opioid use can be fatal, as opioids affect the brain’s area that controls breathing. An opioid overdose is typically indicated by three key signs: pinpoint pupils, unconsciousness and breathing difficulties. If a naloxone kit is not available, maintain rescue breathing until emergency services, such as an ambulance, arrive. If multiple people are present, alternate performing rescue breathing, as it can be tiring.

It’s recommended for individuals taking oxycodone to have naloxone, a rescue medication, accessible at places like home or office. Naloxone reverses the effects of an overdose by blocking the opiates’ impact. Doctors may prescribe naloxone in households with small children or individuals with a history of drug abuse. It’s important for family members, caregivers and close associates to recognise overdose signs, know how to administer naloxone and what to do until emergency services arrive.

Training on naloxone use can be provided by a doctor or pharmacist and instructions are also available from the manufacturer’s website. In an overdose situation, a caregiver or family member should administer the first dose of naloxone, call emergency response and monitor the individual closely. If symptoms return, additional doses of naloxone may be administered every 2 to 3 minutes until medical help arrives.

Founded in 2008, WeDoRecover has evolved from an advisory service for addiction treatment into a comprehensive provider of care, following its 2019 merger with Changes Addiction Rehab in Johannesburg. Specialising in connecting patients to top-tier addiction treatment centers in the UK, South Africa and Thailand, WeDoRecover supports individuals globally, including those from the United Arab Emirates and Europe. Accepting both South African medical aid and international health insurance our organisation facilitates access to high-quality treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders, offering individualised care that addresses the physical, mental and social needs of patients.

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