Narcotic Pain Medication

These medications are used to help reduce severe pain and improve your daily ability to function.  They will have no effect on swelling or inflammation. They all work in a similar manner and generally take about 30 to 45 minutes before pain relief begins.  The amount of time the medicine will provide relief will vary from individual to individual, but the medicine should be taken as instructed by your doctor.  Sometimes, one of these drugs will work better than another for an individual and there is no way to predict before you use them.

It is important to take the medication as prescribed to minimize complications (side effects and risks).

Some of the Narcotic Medications:

• Oxycodone:                                                                
• Oxycodone/APAP (5/325mg)        
• Hydrocodone/APAP (5/500   7.5/500   10/325)
• Acetaminophen/Codeine:  (#2   #3)                       
• Propoxyphene 100 mg/APAP 650 mg        
• Tramadol/APAP (UltracetÒ)
• Oxycontin                                                                   
• MS Contin
• Fentynal

Side Effects (include, but are not limited to):

• Lightheadedness                                         
• Dizziness
• Sedation                                                       
• Confusion or mood changes
• Nausea and vomiting                                   
• Constipation
• Urinary retention                                         
• Itching

Risks (include, but are not limited to):

Respiratory depression (slowed breathing which can be fatal)

Physical dependence (discontinuing the medication abruptly can lead to a withdrawal syndrome)

Addiction or psychological dependency on the medication

Tolerance to the medication (need for more medication to achieve the same effect)

If you develop any of these symptoms / problems, discontinue the medication immediately.  Contact our office, your medical doctor, or the emergency room (ER).

Our office policy does not allow us to order or refill prescriptions on weekends, after hours, or on holidays.  Please check your supply daily so you do not run out of medication.

Written by James A. Shapiro, MD