Oxycodone/naltrexone
An overview of the combination medication oxycodone/naltrexone
Oxycodone/naltrexone is a combination medication used in the management of chronic pain. It combines the opioid analgesic oxycodone with the opioid antagonist naltrexone. This combination is designed to provide effective pain relief while reducing the potential for abuse and dependence associated with opioid medications.
Pharmacology[edit | edit source]
Oxycodone[edit | edit source]
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid derived from thebaine, an alkaloid found in the opium poppy. It acts primarily as a mu-opioid receptor agonist, which leads to its analgesic effects. Oxycodone is effective in managing moderate to severe pain, but it also has a high potential for abuse and addiction.
Naltrexone[edit | edit source]
Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking the effects of opioids at the mu-opioid receptor. It is commonly used in the treatment of opioid and alcohol dependence. In the combination with oxycodone, naltrexone is included to mitigate the risk of abuse by counteracting the euphoric effects of oxycodone if the medication is tampered with.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
The combination of oxycodone and naltrexone is designed to provide pain relief while minimizing the risk of misuse. When taken as prescribed, the naltrexone component remains inactive due to its formulation within the pill. However, if the pill is crushed or dissolved, the naltrexone is released and blocks the opioid receptors, reducing the euphoric effects of oxycodone and deterring abuse.
Clinical Use[edit | edit source]
Oxycodone/naltrexone is indicated for the management of pain severe enough to require daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate. It is typically prescribed when other pain management strategies have proven insufficient.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of oxycodone/naltrexone include nausea, constipation, dizziness, and headache. Serious side effects may include respiratory depression, hypotension, and potential for addiction. The presence of naltrexone may also precipitate withdrawal symptoms in patients who are physically dependent on opioids.
Contraindications[edit | edit source]
This medication is contraindicated in patients with significant respiratory depression, acute or severe bronchial asthma, and known hypersensitivity to oxycodone, naltrexone, or any other components of the product.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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