Severe pain can be caused by traumatic injuries, surgical procedures and terminal illnesses. This pain may not respond to pain relievers designed for mild to moderate pain, so there are several medications available for severe pain. While these medications are highly effective, they also have a number of possible side effects and the potential for abuse.
Oxymorphone
Oxymorphone is a narcotic drug used to treat pain that is moderate or severe. This drug is sold under the names Opana ER, Numorphan HCL and Opana. Because oxymorphone can be habit-forming, it should not be taken by anyone with a history of addiction to alcohol or drugs. Possible side effects of oxymorphone include dry mouth, headache, constipation, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, itching and sweating. Seek medical attention if shallow heartbeat, seizure, confusion, severe weakness, fainting, severe dizziness or cold, clammy skin occur.
Oxycodone
Oxycodone is found in Percocet, Percodan and OxyContin. It works by stimulating the central nervous system's opioid receptors so that pain relief can be achieved. This drug is prescribed to treat severe pain caused by injuries, cancer and surgical procedures. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office of Applied Studies, approximately 11 million Americans over the age of 12 have used oxycodone for non-medical purposes at least once in their lives. Potential side effects of oxycodone include constipation, headache, nausea, weakness, vomiting, sleep problems, drowsiness and dizziness. Seek medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction or serious side effects such as difficulty urinating, confusion, seizures, lightheadedness, severe dizziness, fainting, slowed breathing, tremor, difficulty breathing, vision changes or fast or slow heartbeat.
Morphine
Morphine is a narcotic that is used to treat moderate to severe pain. This drug is sold under the brand names Kadian, MS Contin, Oramorph, Roxanol, Avinza and MSIR. Morphine can be taken orally or by injection in the form of morphine sulfate, both of which block the perception of pain in the brain. Morphine is addictive and should not be taken by anyone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Potential side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss, dry mouth, sweating, headache, weakness, agitation, mood changes, confusion, lightheadedness, changes in taste, sleep problems, muscle stiffness, double vision, red eyes, chills, uncontrollable eye movements, flu symptoms and difficulty urinating.
Hydromorphone
Hydromorphone is a pain medication that comes in tablet, liquid and suppository forms. This drug is marketed under the brand names Palladone, Palladone SR, Dilaudid, Dilaudid-HP, Dilaudid-5, Hydromorph Contin and Hydrostat IR. Hydromorphone is highly addictive and is a known drug of abuse. Potential side effects include lightheadedness, dizziness, upset stomach, drowsiness, constipation, rash, stomach pain, difficulty urinating and vomiting. Seek medical attention if difficulty breathing or fainting occur.
Methadone
Methadone is a narcotic pain reliever that is similar to morphine and is sold under the brand names of Methadose, Diskets and Dolophine. This drug can also be used to help with the symptoms of drug withdrawal. Possible side effects of methadone include anxiety, restlessness, sleep problems, nervousness, decreased sex drive, weakness, drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite and difficulty having an orgasm. Seek medical attention if hallucinations, shallow breathing, difficulty breathing, fainting, chest pain, dizziness, pounding heartbeat or fast heartbeat occur.
