Oxycodone is a narcotic pain reliever used to treat moderate to severe pain. It works by depressing the pain control center in the brain. Oxycodone comes as a solution (liquid), concentrate solution, tablet, capsule and extended-release (long-acting) tablet taken by mouth, reports Medline. Oxycodone may cause a variety of side effects.
Nausea, Vomiting and Constipation
Nausea and vomiting may occur when taking oxycodone. Taking the medication with food is recommended to prevent gastrointestinal distress. Oxycodone may also cause constipation. Eating a diet high in fiber with fruits and vegetables, and drinking ample fluids will help to prevent and relieve constipation.
Dizziness, Headache and Dry Mouth
Dizziness and headache are common side effects of oxycodone. These side effects may diminish over time as the body adjusts to oxycodone. People taking the medication should use caution while driving or operating machinery until they know how oxycodone will affect them. Dry mouth is another possible side effect of oxycodone. The use of mouthwash and lozenges or mints may help relieve dry mouth.
Addiction and Tolerance
There have been many documented cases of oxycodone-related deaths and overdose. This is due to the fact that this drug can be highly addicting in certain people. Many people become addicted while using the medication for pain-related purposes, but are unable to stop daily usage once their condition has subsided. If this drug is taken with alcohol, it could cause serious respiratory depression, which can lead to death.
A physical addiction is characterized by the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms that occur when daily usage is gradually decreased. Symptoms associated with withdrawal during addiction can include muscle and bone pain, anxiety, insomnia, tremors, flu-like symptoms, nausea, chills, yawning and restlessness.
The body may develop a tolerance for oxycodone. This occurs when the dosage prescribed is not providing adequate relief because the body has become used to the amount of medication. Sometimes the dose may need to be raised in order to provide satisfactory pain relief.
Sweating and Itching
Sweating and itching of the skin may occur while using oxycodone. These effects may diminish as the body adjusts to this medication. If itching becomes bothersome, over-the-counter anti-itch medications, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may be used, with a doctor's consent.
Severe Reactions
In rare cases, people may experience an allergic reaction to oxycodone. Symptoms include hives, rash or shallow breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat. Seek emergent medical attention if you are experiencing an allergic reaction to oxycodone. Other severe reactions include seizures, cold, clammy skin; severe weakness or dizziness; and feeling light-headed or fainting, reports Drug Information Online.
Warnings
Drinking alcohol while using oxycodone may cause dangerous side effects or even death. Sudden withdrawal from oxycodone may elicit severe withdrawal symptoms.
