OXYCONTIN (oxycodone )

What is it: OxyContin is in a group of drugs called narcotic pain relievers. It is similar to morphine.

Use: OxyContin tablets are used to treat moderate to severe pain. The extended-release form of this medication is for around-the-clock treatment of pain. Oxycodone is not for treating pain just after a surgery unless you were already taking oxycodone before the surgery.

Side Effects: Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects: shallow breathing, slow heartbeat; seizure (convulsions);cold, clammy skin; confusion; severe weakness or dizziness; orfeeling light-headed, fainting.

Less serious side OxyContin effects are more likely to occur, such as: nausea, vomiting, constipation, loss of appetite; dizziness, headache, tired feeling; dry mouth; sweating.

Precautions: OxyContin may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. OxyContin should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Do not drink alcohol while you are taking OxyContin. Dangerous side effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with a narcotic pain medicine. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol.

Directions: Take OxyContin exactly as it was prescribed for you. Never take OxyContin in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Tell your doctor if the medicine seems to stop working as well in relieving your pain.

Take the OxyContin tablet with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break an extended-release tablet. Swallow the tablet whole. It will release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking the tablet would cause too much oxycodone to be released at one time.

Do not drink alcohol while you are taking this medication. Dangerous side effects or death can occur when alcohol is combined with OxyContin. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol. OxyContin can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.Missed

Doses: If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage: Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing. Keep out of the reach of children. Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.