Generic Name: Oxycodone
Indications: Narcotic pain reliever available in regular and extended release.
FDA Drug Category: B
Summary Recommendations: Oxycodone is a narcotic pain reliever that may be addictive. The medication should only be used as directed by the person prescribed the medication. The B pregnancy category means there are no reports of birth defects associated with the drug so if you find out you're pregnancy, don't stop taking the medication before contacting your prescribing physician or obstetrician.
May be prescribed by the brand names OxyContin, OxyIR, Roxicodone, Endocodone.
General Precautions:
Oxycodone is an addictive narcotic that should be taken as prescribed only by the person to which the medication is prescribed. It is not safe to share your Oxycodone with others or take another patient's prescription for the drug.
Oxycodone should not be taken with alcohol as a deadly reaction may occur. You should not drive, operate any type of machinery or partake in any activity that requires attention to detail or quick response as these abilities may be impaired.
Oxycodone should not be taken with other narcotics, so if you're currently taking other prescription pain medications tell your doctor before starting the oxycodone.
Conditions that may be exacerbated by the use of the narcotic include breathing disorders, thyroid diseases, seizure disorders or liver/kidney disease. It is important to share your complete medical history with the doctor prescribing the medication.
Effects While Trying to Conceive:
There have been no clinical tests or studies completed on oxycodone in regards to fertility. At this time there does not appear to be any impact on fertility, though the narcotic may affect mood and ability to achieve and maintain an erection.
Effects on Pregnancy:
Oxycodone has been placed in the FDA pregnancy category B, but some combination drugs that contain oxycodone may fall into the pregnancy category C. The drug can be used safely during pregnancy though prolonged use may cause neonatal withdrawal, especially when the narcotic is used in the last trimester of pregnancy. If the benefits of taking oxycodone outweigh the risks of taking a narcotic during pregnancy it may be considered a viable option.
Safe During Breastfeeding:
The narcotic is expressed in breast milk. Infants breastfeeding to mothers taking oxycodone may experience increased sleepiness or difficulty breastfeeding. If your infants appear to be lethargic, refuses to breastfeed or appears to be having difficulty breathing, contact medical help at once.