Side effects
As with all drugs in the class of opioid analgesics, a number of undesirable side effects can occur. First of all, it should be said that Oxycodone has a very high addiction potential, about which the patient must be informed in advance. It can lead to strong euphoria and therefore carries a high risk of abuse.
This is particularly dangerous if, for example, slow-acting retardation capsules are ground and taken in this way, as the entire active substance then unfolds its effect at the same time. This can lead to severe respiratory depression, which can be fatal. Other side effects include nausea, vomiting and dizziness.
Furthermore, bradycardia (cardiac dysrhythmia), hypotension (low blood pressure) and tiredness may occur. Miosis (narrowing of the pupils), constipation, urinary retention and sweating may occur. Most side effects are reversible and occur at the beginning of the therapy.
Interactions
The following medications and substances can enhance the effect of Oxycodon: Benzodiazepines, barbiturates, tricyclic antidepressants, phenotiazines, muscle relaxants, antihistamines, ethanol and anesthetics. These are sedating substances. If taken at the same time, side effects can occur unpredictably.
Pharmacokinetic interaction
Oxycodone can interact with a number of substances that are metabolized by the same enzymes. The important enzymes are called CYP3A4 isoenzymes. Inhibitors of these enzymes (substances that block the enzymes) enhance the effect of Oxycodone.
These substances include: Verapamil, Erythromycin, Fluconazole, Imatinib, Diltiazem, Clarithromycin, Voriconazole, Ritonavir, Indinavir, Nelfinavir, Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Telithromycin, Cyclosporine and Grapefruit juice. There are also substances that have an opposite effect on these enzymes, thus reducing the effect of oxycodone. These include: Rifampicin, penytoin, primidone, carbamazepine, efavirenz, St. John’s wort, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital and nevirapine.
Contraindications
Oxycodone was first synthesized from thebaine in 1916.
