Oxycodone is a medication used to control moderate to severe pain, and it is part of the family of drugs known as opioid analgesics. This medication is found in several different forms, but all are used for pain relief related to various medical conditions. One prevalent form is liquid oxycodone, which is intended for oral consumption.
The dosage of liquid oxycodone preparations may vary based on geographic location, but a common formulation contains 5 milligrams (mg) of the medication for every 5 milliliters (ml) of liquid. Along with the active opioid drug, it may also contain inactive ingredients such as artificial color and artificial flavoring to cover up the bitter taste of the medication. Doctors may prescribe different dosages of this medication depending on factors such as the level of pain and tolerance of the patient, but doses are often 5 mg to 10 mg, taken one to three times each day.
Other types of oral forms of this medication are common, such as pills or tablets. Liquid oxycodone may be used in patients that cannot tolerate taking these other preparations. Certain stomach conditions may cause difficulties digesting pills, for example, whereas liquid medications do not require breakdown in the stomach, and thus are gentler. Additionally, liquid preparations are absorbed into the bloodstream more rapidly, meaning that patients may have relief of acute pain more quickly than a pill or tablet would be able to deliver.
Like any other opioid medications, liquid oxycodone may cause side effects. Some side effects are common, and should not be a cause for concern, such as nausea or an upset stomach, slight itchiness, and constipation. These adverse effects often disappear after an individual takes the medication for a few days and becomes adjusted to it. Other side effects, such as difficulty breathing, confusion, seizure, or an allergic reaction, can be life threatening. Emergency medical services should be contacted immediately if an individual experiences any of these particular effects.
A potential for liquid oxycodone drug interactions exists, and these interactions are similar to those seen with other opioid painkillers. This medication should not be taken with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, like benzodiazepines, used for anxiety disorders, barbiturates, used for some seizure conditions, or certain sleeping pills. Patients should also avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication, as combining even small amounts of alcohol with oxycodone can lead to breathing problems that may be fatal.