About Oxycodone 20 mg
Oxycodone 20 mg is one of the opioid analgesics. This drug is used with a high dose in treatment for pain, which is of the moderate and severe kind. It will often be prescribed for patients who may require heavy pain relief, such as those post-surgery, injury, or may just have chronic pains like cancer or arthritis.
Important Facts About Oxycodone 20 mg
Strength: The dose of oxycodone is at 20 mg per tablet. It is a moderate to high strength that could be prescribed to someone requiring more potent relief or someone who has already built up some tolerance for lower doses of opioids.
Formulation: Oxycodone 20 mg can be given both in the immediate-release and extended-release formulations:
Immediate Release (IR): Immediate effect, which can last for 4-6 hours.
ER: It is used for the administration of pain around the clock, but only in chronic pain, lasting up to 12 hours.
Mode of Action:
Oxycodone exerts its effect through its binding to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and the spinal cord, which decreases the perception of pain and thus gives an analgesic, or pain-relieving, effect. It also causes euphoria, which is considered to be one major cause of abuse and addiction.
Side Effects:
Common side effects of oxycodone 20 mg include the following
- Drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Headache
Respiratory depression, especially with high dosages or when the drug is misused
Risks:
The drug has a very high potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction. Use, like crushing and injecting or inhaling the drug, increases the risk of overdose, which may result in death. Tolerance develops and withdrawal symptoms occur with long-term use.
Caution:
Do not take more than the quantity prescribed to you.
It is typically recommended that oxycodone not be used with alcohol or other sedatives, as this will increase the risk for respiratory depression and overdose.
This should not be given to patient who has a severe respiratory condition. Such as asthma or sleep apnea.
Conclusion:
Oxycodone 20 mg is very effective for pain, but the drug is highly abused and overdosed frequently, which makes it often habit forming. Therefore, you should strictly follow the guidelines issued by your doctor. If you are experiencing side effects or have long-term issues concerning the use of the medication, then discuss it with your doctor.
