Oxycodone is an opioid painkiller. It's used to treat severe pain, for example after an operation or a serious injury, or pain from cancer.
Sometimes it's also used for other types of long-term pain when other painkillers, such as paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin, have not worked.
Oxycodone is only available on prescription. It comes as slow-release tablets, standard tablets and capsules, and a liquid that you swallow. It can also be given by injection, but this is usually done in hospital.
Oxycodone liquid, standard tablets, capsules and injections work quickly. They're used for pain which is expected to last for a short time and are often used when you start taking oxycodone, to help find the right dose.
Oxycodone slow-release tablets gradually release the oxycodone into your body over either 12 or 24 hours. They take longer to start working but last longer. They are used for long-term pain.
Sometimes your doctor may prescribe both standard and slow-release oxycodone to manage long-term pain.
Oxycodone is sometimes combined with a medicine called naloxone. It comes as a tablet that is used to prevent certain side effects, such as constipation. Oxycodone with naloxone is known by the brand names Myloxifin, Oxyargin or Targinact.
Key facts
- Oxycodone liquid and capsules work in 30 to 60 minutes but wear off after 4 to 6 hours. Slow-release tablets can take up to 1 to 2 days to work fully but the pain relief will last longer.
- It's possible to become addicted to oxycodone, but your doctor will explain how to reduce the risks of becoming addicted.
- If you need to take oxycodone for more than a few weeks, your treatment plan may include details of how and when to stop taking this medicine.
- The most common side effects of oxycodone are constipation, feeling sick and feeling sleepy.
- Do not have grapefruit juice while taking oxycodone. It can affect the way your body uses the oxycodone and cause more serious side effects.