Oxycodone

Opioids and strong painkillers

Also known as OxyContin, Roxicodone, Percocet (with acetaminophen)

Oxycodone is an opioid that changes how your brain and body feel pain. It comes as fast-acting tablets for pain right now, and as extended-release tablets (OxyContin) that work around the clock for constant pain. Percocet is oxycodone combined with acetaminophen. The honest thing to know: it can be habit-forming even at the exact dose your doctor prescribed, so take it precisely as directed and check in with your doctor about how long you need it.

How to take it

When

Fast-acting tablets start working in about 30 to 60 minutes. Extended-release tablets are taken on a strict schedule — swallow them whole, and never crush, chew, or split them, because a crushed tablet releases a dangerous amount at once. After regular use, don't stop suddenly — your doctor will taper you down to avoid withdrawal.

Food

You can take it with or without food — with food if it upsets your stomach. If yours is Percocet, it already contains acetaminophen: never add extra Tylenol or combination cold medicines on top, because too much acetaminophen damages your liver.

Avoid

Never mix with alcohol, benzodiazepines (like Xanax or Klonopin), sleep medicines, or other sedatives — this combination can stop your breathing and is a leading cause of overdose deaths. Don't drive until you know how it affects you. If you're pregnant, tell your doctor — a baby can be born in withdrawal after regular use.

Keep it safe

Lock it away from children and teens — one tablet can be fatal to a child. Never share it (it's illegal and dangerous), and take leftovers to a pharmacy take-back. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about keeping naloxone (Narcan) at home — the FDA recommends it for everyone on opioids, no prescription needed.

Missed a dose?

If you're on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember — unless the next dose is close, in which case skip it. If you take it only as needed, there's no missed dose to worry about. Never double up.

Common side effects

Constipation — nearly universal with opioids, so be proactive: fluids, fiber, and ask about a stool softener
Drowsiness or feeling foggy
Nausea or vomiting, especially at first
Dizziness when standing up
Itching or sweating

Call a doctor if

Very slow, shallow, or stopped breathing, gurgling or snoring sounds, blue lips or fingertips, or someone who can't be woken — this is an overdose. Give naloxone if you have it and call 911 immediately
Unusual sleepiness or confusion, especially when starting or after a dose increase — call your doctor right away; slowed breathing can follow
Hives or swelling of your face, lips, or throat — call 911 if breathing is affected
Fainting, severe dizziness, or a very slow heartbeat — get medical help
Craving more than prescribed or running out early — talk to your doctor honestly. It's a medical issue with real treatments, not a personal failing

Educational only. This summary is drawn from public FDA labeling and MedlinePlus and simplified for readability. Your prescription label and your pharmacist always come first — doses and instructions vary from person to person.