OxyContin

Why should OxyContin not be prescribed?

Do not take OxyContin if you have asthma or any other serious breathing problem; the drug can further diminish respiration. Also avoid OxyContin if you have an intestinal blockage or an allergy to hydrocodone.

OxyContin is not intended for the relief of postoperative pain unless you've already been taking the drug or the pain is expected to last for an extended period. OxyContin is not prescribed for brief periods or for mild pain.

Special warnings about OxyContin

The two highest-strength OxyContin tablets--80 and 160 milligrams--are dangerous for anyone who has not already developed a tolerance for narcotics. If you have been prescribed one of these strengths, do not give the tablets to anyone else; they could impair respiration and lead to death.

Follow your doctor's dosage instructions carefully. Misuse of OxyContin promotes physical dependence, abuse, and addiction. When OxyContin therapy is no longer necessary, the doctor will taper your dosage gradually in order to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Abruptly discontinuing the drug can cause such symptoms as restlessness, enlarged pupils, watery eyes, runny nose, yawning, sweating, chills, and muscle aches. More severe symptoms may include irritability, anxiety, joint pain, weakness, cramps, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, and a fast pulse.

OxyContin should be used cautiously by anyone with a respiratory condition. The drug is especially prone to cause breathing problems in older adults, people in poor health, and those with disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Doctors generally try to use non-narcotic painkillers for patients such as these.

OxyContin should be used with caution by people with head injuries, brain tumors, and other conditions that increase pressure on the brain. Caution is also warranted for people who are semi-conscious or in a coma, and those who suffer from acute alcoholism, adrenal or thyroid problems, spinal deformities that impair breathing, an enlarged prostate, difficulty urinating, drug-induced psychosis, pancreatitis and related disorders, or severe kidney or liver disease.