https://medixway.com/pain-relief/oxycodone/
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid medication commonly prescribed to manage moderate to severe pain. Available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations, it is effective in providing pain relief generally within 15 minutes for the immediate form and is used for both acute and chronic pain conditions. Despite its efficacy, oxycodone carries significant risks, including high potential for addiction, dependence, and abuse. Common side effects include constipation, nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, and itching, with more severe risks including life-threatening respiratory depression and overdose. Careful assessment and monitoring are essential to mitigate these risks, especially during initiation and dosage adjustments. Oxycodone's overdose effects can be fatal, requiring the use of opioid antagonists such as naloxone for emergency treatment. Healthcare providers emphasize cautious prescribing along with patient education to prevent misuse and manage the balance between pain control and potential harm.
