Other
Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
Because the use of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE exposes patients and other users to the risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death, assess each patient's risk prior to prescribing and reassess all patients regularly for the development of these behaviors and conditions[see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1)] .
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE, especially during initiation or following a dosage increase. To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDEare essential[see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2)] .
Accidental Ingestion
Accidental ingestion of even one dose of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE, especially by children, can result in a fatal overdose of oxycodone[see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2)] .
Risks From Concomitant Use With Benzodiazepines Or Other CNS Depressants
Concomitant use of opioids with benzodiazepines or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including alcohol, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate[see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3), Drug Interactions ( 7)].
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS)
If opioid use is required for an extended period of time in a pregnant woman, advise the patient of the risk of NOWS, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated. Ensure that management by neonatology experts will be available at delivery[see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4)] .
Opioid Analgesic Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS)
Healthcare providers are strongly encouraged to complete a REMS-compliant education program and to counsel patients and caregivers on serious risks, safe use, and the importance of reading the Medication Guide with each prescription[see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5)] .
Cytochrome P450 3A4 Interaction
The concomitant use of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE with all cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitors may result in an increase in oxycodone plasma concentrations, which could increase or prolong adverse reactions and may cause potentially fatal respiratory depression. In addition, discontinuation of a concomitantly used cytochrome P450 3A4 inducer may result in an increase in oxycodone plasma concentration. Regularly evaluate patients receiving OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE and any CYP3A4 inhibitor or inducer[see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6), Drug Interactions ( 7), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3)] .
Limitations of Use
Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse with opioids, which can occur any dosage or duration [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1)] , reserve OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options (e.g., non-opioid analgesics or opioid combination products):
- Have not been tolerated or are not expected to be tolerated,
- Have not provided adequate analgesia or are not expected to provide adequate analgesia.
- How to treat with naloxone in the event of an opioid overdose
- To tell family and friends about their naloxone and to keep it in a place where family and friends can access it in an emergency.
- To read the Patient Information (or other educational material) that will come with their naloxone. Emphasize the importance of doing this before an opioid emergency happens, so the patient and caregiver will know what to do.
- Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
Inform female patients of reproductive potential that use of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE for an extended period of time during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1)] .
- Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
Inform female patients of reproductive potential that OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE can cause fetal harm and to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1)] .
OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE should not be used for an extended period of time unless the pain remains severe enough to require an opioid analgesic and for which alternative treatment options continue to be inadequate.
Use of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE as the First Opioid Analgesic
Initiate treatment with OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE in a dosing range of 5 to 15 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain, and at the lowest dose necessary to achieve adequate analgesia. Titrate the dose based upon the individual patient's response to their initial dose of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE.
Although it is not possible to list every condition that is important to the selection of the initial dose of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE, attention should be given to: 1) the daily dose, potency, and characteristics of any prior opioid 2) the reliability of any relative potency estimate used to calculate the dose of oxycodone needed, 3) the degree of opioid tolerance, 4) the general condition and medical status of the patient, and 5) the balance between pain control and adverse experiences.
Conversion from Other Opioids to OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE
There is inter-patient variability in the potency of opioid drugs and opioid formulations. Therefore, a conservative approach is advised when determining the total daily dosage of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE. It is safer to underestimate a patient's 24-hour OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE dosage than to overestimate the 24-hour OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE dosage and manage an adverse reaction due to overdose. If a patient has been receiving opioid-containing medications prior to taking OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE, the potency of the prior opioid relative to oxycodone should be factored into the selection of the total daily dose (TDD) of oxycodone.
In converting patients from other opioids to OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE, close observation and adjustment of dosage based upon the patient's response to OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE is imperative. Administration of supplemental analgesia for breakthrough or incident pain and titration of the TDD of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE may be necessary, especially in patients who have disease states that are changing rapidly.
Conversion From Fixed-Ratio Opioid/Acetaminophen, Opioid/Aspirin, or Opioid/Nonsteroidal Combination Drugs
When converting patients from fixed ratio opioid/non-opioid drug regimens, a decision should be made whether or not to continue the non-opioid analgesic. If a decision is made to discontinue the use of non-opioid analgesic, it may be necessary to titrate the dose of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE in response to the level of analgesia and adverse effects afforded by the dosing regimen. If the non-opioid regimen is continued as a separate single entity agent, the starting dose of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE should be based upon the most recent dose of opioid as a baseline for further titration of oxycodone. Incremental increases should be gauged according to side effects to an acceptable level of analgesia.
Conversion from OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE to Extended-Release Oxycodone
The relative bioavailability of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE compared to extended-release oxycodone products is unknown, so conversion to extended-release oxycodone may lead to increased risk of excessive sedation and respiratory depression.
Conversion from Oxycodone Immediate-Release Tablets
Oxycodone pharmacokinetics are similar for OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE and oxycodone immediate-release tablets. Patients can be converted from oxycodone immediate-release to the same dose and dosing regimen of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE.
Patient Access to Naloxone for the Emergency Treatment of Opioid Overdose
Discuss the availability of naloxone for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose with the patient and caregiver and assess the potential need for access to naloxone, both when initiating and renewing the treatment with OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE. Inform patients and caregivers about the various ways to obtain naloxone as permitted by individual state naloxone dispensing and prescribing requirements or guidelines (e.g., by prescription, directly from a pharmacist, or as part of a community-based program). Educate patients and caregivers on how to recognize respiratory depression and emphasize the importance of calling 911 or getting emergency medical help, even if naloxone is administered.
Consider prescribing naloxone, based on the patient's risk factors for overdose, such as concomitant use of CNS depressants, a history of opioid use disorder, or prior opioid overdose. The presence of risk factors for overdose should not prevent the proper management of pain in any given patient. Also consider prescribing naloxone if the patient has household members (including children) or other close contacts at risk for accidental ingestion or overdose. If naloxone is prescribed, educate patients and caregivers on how to treat with naloxone. [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1, 5.3), Overdosage ( 10)] .
Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Disease: OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE -treated patients with significant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cor pulmonale, and those with a substantially decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxia, hypercapnia, or pre-existing respiratory depression are at increased risk of decreased respiratory drive including apnea, even at recommended dosages of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2)] .
Elderly, Cachectic, or Debilitated Patients: Life-threatening respiratory depression is more likely to occur in elderly, cachectic, or debilitated patients because they may have altered pharmacokinetics or altered clearance compared to younger, healthier patients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2)] .
Regularly evaluate patients, particularly when initiating and titrating OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE and when OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE is given concomitantly with other drugs that depress respiration [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2, 5.3)] . Alternatively, consider the use of non-opioid analgesics in these patients.
Risk Summary
Use of opioid analgesics for an extended period of time during pregnancy may cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4), Clinical Considerations] . There are reports of respiratory depression when oxycodone is used during labor and delivery [see Clinical Considerations]. There are no available data with OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk for adverse developmental outcomes. Animal reproduction studies with oral administrations of oxycodone hydrochloride in rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis, at doses 2.6 and 8.1 times, respectively, the human dose of 60 mg/day did not reveal evidence of teratogenicity or embryo-fetal toxicity. In several published studies, treatment of pregnant rats with oxycodone at clinically relevant doses and below, resulted in neurobehavioral effects in offspring [see Data]. Based on animal data, advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.
The risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defects, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Use of opioid analgesics for an extended period of time during pregnancy for medical or nonmedical purposes can result in physical dependence in the neonate and neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome shortly after birth.
Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome presents as irritability, hyperactivity, and abnormal sleep pattern, high pitched cry, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea, and failure to gain weight. The onset, duration, and severity of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome vary based on the specific opioid used, duration of use, timing and amount of last maternal use, and rate of elimination of the drug by the newborn. Observe newborns for symptoms of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and manage accordingly [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4)] .
Labor or Delivery
Opioids cross the placenta and may produce respiratory depression and psycho-physiologic effects in neonates. An opioid antagonist such as naloxone, must be available for reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression in the neonate. OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE is not recommended for use in pregnant women during or immediately prior to labor, when other analgesic techniques are more appropriate. Opioid analgesics, including OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE , can prolong labor through actions which temporarily reduce the strength, duration, and frequency of uterine contractions. However, this effect is not consistent and may be offset by an increased rate of cervical dilation, which tends to shorten labor. Monitor neonates exposed to opioid analgesics during labor for signs of excess sedation and respiratory depression.
Data
Human Data
Limited published data from case-control and observational studies on oxycodone use during pregnancy are inconsistent in their findings. Although some studies reported an increased risk of congenital malformations, there was no consistent pattern of malformations noted. In addition, multiple similar studies reported no association. Methodological limitations of these studies, including small sample size, recall bias, lack of information regarding dose and timing of exposure and concomitant use of other medications, preclude a reliable evaluation of the potential risk of adverse fetal outcomes with the use of oxycodone in pregnancy.
Animal Data
In embryo-fetal development studies in rats and rabbits, pregnant animals received oral doses of oxycodone hydrochloride administered during the period of organogenesis up to 16 mg/kg/day and up to 25 mg/kg/day, respectively. These studies revealed no evidence of teratogenicity or embryo fetal toxicity due to oxycodone. The highest doses tested in rats and rabbits were equivalent to approximately 2.6 and 8.1 times an adult human dose of 60 mg/day, respectively, on a mg/m 2basis. In published studies, offspring of pregnant rats administered oxycodone during gestation have been reported to exhibit neurobehavioral effects including altered stress responses, increased anxiety-like behavior (2 mg/kg/day IV from Gestation Day 8 to 21 and Postnatal Day 1, 3, and 5; 0.3-times an adult human dose of 60 mg/day, on a mg/m 2basis) and altered learning and memory (15 mg/kg/day orally from breeding through parturition; 2.4 times an adult human dose of 60 mg/day, on a mg/m 2basis).
Risk Summary
Available data from lactation studies indicate that oxycodone is present in breastmilk and that doses of less than 60 mg/day of the immediate-release formulation are unlikely to result in clinically relevant exposures in breastfed infants. A pharmacokinetics study utilizing opportunistic sampling of 76 lactating women receiving oxycodone immediate-release products for postpartum pain management showed that oxycodone concentrates in breastmilk with an average milk to plasma ratio of 3.2. The relative infant dose was low, approximately 1.3% of a weight-adjusted maternal dose ( see Data).
In the same study, among the 70 infants exposed to oxycodone in breastmilk, no adverse events were attributed to oxycodone. However, based on known adverse effects in adults, infants should be monitored for signs of excess sedation and respiratory depression ( see Clinical Considerations). There are no data on the effects of the oxycodone on milk production.
The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE or from the underlying maternal condition.
Clinical Considerations
Monitor infants exposed to OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE through breast milk for excess sedation and respiratory depression. Withdrawal symptoms can occur in breastfed infants when maternal administration of an opioid analgesic is stopped or when breast-feeding is stopped.
Data
Oxycodone concentration data from 76 lactating women receiving immediate-release oxycodone products for postpartum pain management, and 28 infants exposed to oxycodone in breastmilk showed that following a median (range) dose of oxycodone in mothers of 9.2 (5-10) mg/dose or 33.0 (5.4-59.3) mg/day, oxycodone concentrated in breastmilk with a median (range) milk to plasma ratio of 3.2 (1.2-5.3). However, when using maternal breastmilk data to estimate the daily and relative infant dose, the infant dose was 0.006 mg/kg/day, which is 1.3% of a weight-adjusted maternal dose of 10 mg every 6 hours. These estimates based on maternal breastmilk concentrations were corroborated by the observed infant concentrations, of which over 75% (19/25) were below the limit of quantification. Among the 6 infants with quantifiable concentration, the median (range) concentration was 0.2 ng/mL (0.1-0.7). These concentrations are 100 to 1000 times lower than concentrations observed in other studies after infants received oxycodone at 0.1 mg/kg/dose (~20-200 ng/mL).
Infertility
Use of opioids for an extended period of time may cause reduced fertility in females and males of reproductive potential. It is not known whether these effects on fertility are reversible [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2), and Nonclinical Toxicology ( 13.1)] .
Risks Specific to Abuse of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE
Abuse of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE poses a risk of overdose and death. This risk is increased with concurrent use of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE with alcohol and/or other CNS depressants.
OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE is for oral use only.
Parenteral abuse of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE can be expected to result in local tissue necrosis, infection, pulmonary granulomas, and increased risk of endocarditis and valvular heart injury. Injection of excipients included in the OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE formulation, intended to provide abuse-deterrent properties, may be associated with additional unknown serious risks. Parenteral drug abuse is commonly associated with transmission of infectious diseases such as hepatitis and HIV.
Abuse Deterrence Studies
OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE is formulated with inactive ingredients that make the tablet more difficult to manipulate for misuse and abuse even if the tablet is subjected to physical manipulation and/or chemical extraction. To evaluate the ability of the abuse-deterrent technology to reduce the potential for abuse of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE, a series of in vitro laboratory manipulation, extraction, and syringe ability studies were conducted. An in vivo intranasal clinical abuse potential study was also conducted.
In Vitro Testing
OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE has been tested in vitro using methods of manipulation that drug abusers commonly use for preparation of opioids for administration by various routes, including oral consumption, intranasal insufflation, and injection.
Abusers may manipulate prescription opioids in order to prepare the tablets for oral, intranasal, or intravenous administration. The laboratory test data demonstrated that, relative to oxycodone immediate-release tablets, OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE has increased resistance to cutting, crushing, grinding, or breaking using selected tools. In addition, the intact and manipulated tablets resisted extraction in selected household and laboratory solvents under various conditions, including selected pre-treatments. Relative to oxycodone immediate-release tablets, the formulation forms a viscous material that resists passage through a needle; it was also more difficult to prepare solutions suitable for intravenous injection.
Clinical Abuse Potential Studies
A randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, placebo-controlled, single-dose four-way crossover study in 29 non-dependent recreational opioid users with a history of intranasal drug abuse was performed to determine the relative bioavailability and abuse potential of crushed intranasal OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE 30 mg tablets compared with crushed intranasal 30 mg oxycodone immediate-release tablets and intact orally administered OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE 30 mg tablets. Intact oral OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDEtablets were included as a reference for evaluating abuse potential after manipulation and administration via an unintended route.
Drug liking was measured on a 100-mm bipolar visual analog scale (VAS) where 50 represents a neutral response of neither liking nor disliking, 0 represents maximum disliking, and 100 represents maximum liking. Response to whether the subject would be willing to take the study drug again was also measured on a bipolar 0 to 100 VAS where 50 represents a neutral response, 0 represents the strongest negative response (“definitely would not take drug again”) and 100 represents the strongest positive response (“definitely would take drug again”).
The pharmacokinetic profiles of oxycodone were also determined in this study ( Table 2). When crushed and insufflated, OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE showed a lower peak oxycodone plasma concentration (C max~28% reduction) and a 35% longer time to peak plasma concentration (T max) relative to crushed and insufflated oxycodone immediate-release tablets. Similar results were demonstrated when crushed and insufflated OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE was compared to intact oral OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE with a reduction in C maxand a longer time to T max. Intact oral OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE resulted in a C maxof oxycodone similar to that of crushed and insufflated oxycodone immediate-release tablets, with a similar T max.
| Treatment or Comparison | Cmax(ng/mL)
LS Mean | AUC0-t (ng*hr/mL) LS Mean | Tmax(hr)
Median |
| Crushed, Insufflated oxycodone immediate-release tablets 30 mg | 55.56 | 330.77 | 1.7 |
| Crushed, Insufflated OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE 30 mg | 40.04 | 309.21 | 2.3 |
| Intact, oral OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE | 56.97 | 265.38 | 1.3 |
| AUC 0-t= Area under the plasma concentration vs time curve from 0 to last measurable concentration. | |||
Compared to crushed intranasal oxycodone immediate-release tablets, intranasal administration of crushed OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE was associated with statistically significantly lower drug liking (E max) and take drug again (E max) scores, as summarized in Table 3. Similar reductions in drug liking and willingness to take the drug again were reported for crushed intranasal OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE relative to intact oral OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE. These data are consistent with the slowing of the intended immediate-release properties of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE when manipulated then insufflated compared to taking OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE orally intact. No statistically significant differences in E maxof Drug Liking or Take Drug Again were observed between crushed intranasal oxycodone immediate-release tablets and intact oral OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE.
| VAS | Crushed Intranasal
OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE 30 mg | Crushed Intranasal
Oxycodone immediate- release tablets 30 mg | Intact Oral OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE
30 mg | Placebo | |
| Drug Liking (E max) | Mean
(SD) | 71.1
(12.01) | 82.9
(11.55) | 81.5
(11.49) | 53.4
(6.34) |
| Median
(Range) | 71
(50 to 100) | 82
(50 to 100) | 82.00
(56 to 100) | 51.0
(50 to 77) | |
| Take Drug Again (E max) | Mean
(SD) | 62.2
(24.51) | 82.1
(16.44) | 77.3
(18.11) | 41.9
(20.09) |
| Median
(Range) | 62.0
(3 to 99) | 86.0
(37 to 100) | 81.0
(13 to 100) | 50.0
(0.0 to 78) |
Figure 1. Mean Drug Liking VAS Scores Over Time (N=29)
The majority of subjects (86%; n=25) experienced some reduction in E maxof Drug Liking VAS with crushed intranasal OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE compared with crushed intranasal oxycodone immediate-release tablets, whereas 59% (n=17) experienced at least a 30% reduction in E maxof drug liking and 21% (n=6) experienced at least a 50% reduction in E maxof drug liking.
Summary
The in vitro data demonstrate that OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE has physicochemical properties expected to make abuse via injection difficult. The data from the clinical study, along with support from in vitro data, also indicate that OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE has physicochemical properties that are expected to reduce abuse by the intranasal route of administration. However, abuse by the intranasal, oral, and intravenous route is still possible.
Additional data, including epidemiological data, when available, may provide further information on the impact of the current formulation of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE on the abuse liability of the drug. Accordingly, this section may be updated in the future as appropriate.
Clinical Presentation
Acute overdose with oxycodone can be manifested by respiratory depression, somnolence progressing to stupor or coma, skeletal muscle flaccidity, cold and clammy skin, constricted pupils, and, in some cases, pulmonary edema, bradycardia, hypotension, hypoglycemia, partial or complete airway obstruction, atypical snoring, and death. Marked mydriasis rather than miosis may be seen with hypoxia in overdose situations [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2)] .
Treatment of Overdose
In case of overdose, priorities are the re-establishment of a patent and protected airway and institution of assisted or controlled ventilation, if needed. Employ other supportive measures (including oxygen and vasopressors) in the management of circulatory shock and pulmonary edema as indicated. Cardiac arrest or arrhythmias will require advance life-support measures.
Opioid antagonists, such as naloxone, are specific antidotes to respiratory depression resulting from opioid overdose. For clinically significant respiratory or circulatory depression secondary to oxycodone overdose, administer an opioid antagonist.
Because the duration of opioid reversal is expected to be less than the duration of action of oxycodone in OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE, carefully monitor the patient until spontaneous respiration is reliably reestablished. If the response to an opioid antagonist is suboptimal or only brief in nature, administer additional antagonist as directed by the product's prescribing information.
In an individual physically dependent on opioids, administration of the recommended usual dosage of the antagonist will precipitate an acute withdrawal syndrome. The severity of the withdrawal symptoms experienced will depend on the degree of physical dependence and the dose of the antagonist administered. If a decision is made to treat serious respiratory depression in the physically dependent patient, administration of the antagonist should be initiated with care and by titration with smaller than usual doses of the antagonist.
Effects on the Central Nervous System
Oxycodone produces respiratory depression by direct action on brain stem respiratory centers. The respiratory depression involves a reduction in the responsiveness of the brain stem respiratory centers to both increases in carbon dioxide tension and electrical stimulation.
Oxycodone causes miosis, even in total darkness. Pinpoint pupils are a sign of opioid overdose but are not pathognomonic (e.g., pontine lesions of hemorrhagic or ischemic origins may produce similar findings). Marked mydriasis rather than miosis may be seen due to hypoxia in overdose situations.
Effects on Gastrointestinal Tract and Other Smooth Muscle
Oxycodone causes a reduction in motility associated with an increase in smooth muscle tone in the antrum, stomach, and duodenum. Digestion of food in the small intestine is delayed and propulsive contractions are decreased. Propulsive peristaltic waves in the colon are decreased, while tone may be increased to the point of spasm, resulting in constipation. Other opioid-induced effects may include a reduction in biliary and pancreatic secretions, spasm of sphincter of Oddi, and transient elevations in serum amylase.
Effects on Cardiovascular System
Oxycodone produces peripheral vasodilatation, which may result in orthostatic hypotension or syncope. Manifestations of histamine release and/or peripheral vasodilatation may include pruritus, flushing, red eyes, sweating, and/or orthostatic hypotension.
Effects on the Endocrine System
Opioids inhibit the secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), cortisol, and luteinizing hormone (LH) in humans [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2)] . They also stimulate prolactin, growth hormone (GH) secretion, and pancreatic secretion of insulin and glucagon.
Use of opioids for an extended period of time may influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, leading to androgen deficiency that may manifest as low libido, impotence, erectile dysfunction, amenorrhea, or infertility. The causal role of opioids in the clinical syndrome of hypogonadism is unknown because the various medical, physical, lifestyle, and psychological stressors that may influence gonadal hormone levels have not been adequately controlled for in studies conducted to date [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2)] .
Effects on the Immune System
Opioids have been shown to have a variety of effects on components of the immune system in in vitro and animal models. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Overall, the effects of opioids appear to be modestly immunosuppressive.
Concentration–Efficacy Relationships
The minimum effective analgesic concentration will vary widely among patients, especially among patients who have been previously treated with opioid agonists. The minimum effective analgesic concentration of oxycodone for any individual patient may increase over time due to an increase in pain, the development of a new pain syndrome, and/or the development of analgesic tolerance [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1, 2.4)] .
Concentration–Adverse Reaction Relationships
There is a relationship between increasing oxycodone plasma concentration and increasing frequency of dose-related opioid adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting, CNS effects, and respiratory depression. In opioid-tolerant patients, the situation may be altered by the development of tolerance to opioid-related adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1, 2.2, 2.3)] .
Absorption
About 60% to 87% of an oral dose of oxycodone reaches the systemic circulation in comparison to a parenteral dose. This high oral bioavailability (compared to other oral opioids) is due to lower presystemic and/or first-pass metabolism of oxycodone. Dose proportionality of oxycodone has been established using the OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE 5 mg, 15 mg, and 30 mg tablets based on maximum plasma concentration (C max) and extent of absorption (AUC) ( Figure 2). It takes approximately 18 to 24 hours to reach steady-state plasma concentrations of oxycodone with oxycodone hydrochloride.
Figure 2. Mean Oxycodone Pharmacokinetic Profiles of 5-, 15-, 30-mg OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE Tablets
(n=51)
Food Effect
A single-dose food effect study was conducted in normal volunteers using the 30-mg tablet. The concurrent intake of a high fat meal was shown to enhance the extent (23% increase in AUC), and the rate (18% increase in C max) of oxycodone absorption from the 30-mg tablet ( Table 4). In addition, food caused a slight delay in T max(1.8 to 2 hours). Similar effects of food are expected with the 5-mg and 15-mg tablets.
Distribution
Following intravenous administration, the volume of distribution (Vss) for oxycodone was 2.6 L/kg. Plasma protein binding of oxycodone at 37°C and a pH of 7.4 was about 45%. Oxycodone has been found in breast milk [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.2)] .
Elimination
Metabolism
A high proportion of oxycodone is N-dealkylated to noroxycodone during first-pass metabolism, and is catalyzed by CYP3A4. Oxymorphone is formed by the O-demethylation of oxycodone. The metabolism of oxycodone to oxymorphone is catalyzed by CYP2D6 [see Drug Interactions ( 7)] . Free and conjugated noroxycodone, free and conjugated oxycodone, and oxymorphone are excreted in human urine following a single oral dose of oxycodone. The major circulating metabolite is noroxycodone with an AUC ratio of 0.6 relative to that of oxycodone. Oxymorphone is present in the plasma only in low concentrations. The analgesic activity profile of other metabolites is not known at present.
Excretion
Oxycodone and its metabolites are excreted primarily via the kidney. The amounts measured in the urine have been reported as follows: free oxycodone up to 19%; conjugated oxycodone up to 50%; free oxymorphone 0%; conjugated oxymorphone ≤ 14%; both free and conjugated noroxycodone have been found in the urine but not quantified. The total plasma clearance was 0.8 L/min for adults. Apparent elimination half-life of oxycodone following the administration of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE was 3.8 to 4.3 hours.
Specific Populations
Age: Geriatric Patients
Population pharmacokinetic studies conducted with oxycodone hydrochloride, indicated that the plasma concentrations of oxycodone did not appear to be increased in patients over the age of 65 [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5)] .
Hepatic Impairment
In a clinical trial supporting the development of oxycodone hydrochloride tablets, too few patients with decreased hepatic function were evaluated to study these potential differences. However, because oxycodone is extensively metabolized in the liver, its clearance may decrease in hepatic impaired patients [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.6)] .
Renal Impairment
This drug is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.7)] .
Carcinogenesis
Long-term studies have not been performed in animals to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of oxycodone.
Mutagenesis
Oxycodone hydrochloride was genotoxic in an in vitro mouse lymphoma assay in the presence of metabolic activation. There was no evidence of genotoxic potential in an in vitro bacterial reverse mutation assay ( Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli) or in an assay for chromosomal aberrations ( in vivomouse bone marrow micronucleus assay).
Impairment of Fertility
Studies in animals to evaluate the potential impact of oxycodone on fertility have not been conducted.
Storage and Disposal:
Because of the risks associated with accidental ingestion, misuse, and abuse, advise patients to store OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE securely, out of sight and reach of children, and in a location not accessible by others, including visitors to the home. Inform patients that leaving OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE unsecured can pose a deadly risk to others in the home [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1, 5.2), Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2)] .
Advise patients and caregivers that when medicines are no longer needed, they should be disposed of promptly. Expired, unwanted, or unused OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE should be disposed of by flushing the unused medication down the toilet if a drug take-back option is not readily available. Inform patients that they can visit www.fda.gov/drugdisposal for a complete list of medicines recommended for disposal by flushing, as well as additional information on disposal of unused medicines.
Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse
Inform patients that the use of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE, even when taken as recommended, can result in addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1)] . Instruct patients not to share OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE with others and to take steps to protect OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE from theft and misuse.
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
Inform patients of the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression, including information that the risk is greatest when starting OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE or when the dosage is increased, and that it can occur even at recommended dosages.
Educate patients and caregivers on how to recognize respiratory depression and emphasize the importance of calling 911 or getting emergency medical help right away in the event of a known or suspected overdose [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2), Overdosage ( 10)] .
Accidental Ingestion
Inform patients that accidental ingestion, especially by children, may result in respiratory depression or death [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2)] .
Interactions with Benzodiazepines and Other CNS Depressants
Inform patients and caregivers that potentially fatal additive effects may occur if OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE is used with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol, and not to use these concomitantly unless supervised by a healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3), Drug Interactions ( 7)] .
Patient Access to Naloxone for the Emergency Treatment of Opioid Overdose
Discuss with the patient and caregiver the availability of naloxone for the emergency treatment of opioid overdose, both when initiating and renewing treatment with OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE. Inform patients and caregivers about the various ways to obtain naloxone as permitted by individual state naloxone dispensing and prescribing requirements or guidelines (e.g., by prescription, directly from a pharmacist, or as part of a community-based program) [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.2), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2)] .
Educate patients and caregivers on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of an overdose.
Explain to patients and caregivers that naloxone's effects are temporary, and that they must call 911 or get emergency medical help right away in all cases of known or suspected opioid overdose, even if naloxone is administered [see Overdosage ( 10)] .
If naloxone is prescribed, also advise patients and caregivers:
Hyperalgesia and Allodynia
Inform patients and caregivers not to increase opioid dosage without first consulting a clinician. Advise patients to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of hyperalgesia, including worsening pain, increased sensitivity to pain, or new pain [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7), Adverse Reactions ( 6.2)] .
Serotonin Syndrome
Inform patients that opioids could cause a rare but potentially life-threatening condition resulting from concomitant administration of serotonergic drugs. Warn patients of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome and to seek medical attention right away if symptoms develop. Instruct patients to inform their healthcare providers if they are taking, or plan to take serotonergic medication [see Drug Interactions ( 7)] .
MAOI Interaction
Inform patients to avoid taking OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE while using any drugs that inhibit monoamine oxidase. Patients should not start MAOIs while taking OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE [see Drug Interactions ( 7)] .
Important Administration Instructions
Instruct patients how to properly take OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE. Patients should be advised not to adjust the dose of OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE without consulting the prescribing healthcare provider [see Dosage and Administration ( 2), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14)] .
Inform patients taking OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE that the medicine is absorbed by the body and the part of the tablet that contains inactive ingredients is eliminated from the body; patients may notice something that looks like a tablet in their stool.
Important Discontinuation Instructions
In order to avoid developing withdrawal symptoms, instruct patients not to discontinue OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE without first discussing a tapering plan with the prescriber [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5)] .
Driving or Operating Machinery
Inform patients that OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE may impair the ability to perform potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating dangerous machinery. Advise patients not to perform such tasks until they know how they will react to the medication [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.15)] .
Constipation
Advise patients of the potential for severe constipation, including management instructions and when to seek medical attention [see Adverse Reactions ( 6), Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.2)] .
Healthcare professionals can telephone Ohemo Life Sciences Inc. (1-844-798-3610) for information on this product.
Adrenal Insufficiency
Inform patients that opioids could cause adrenal insufficiency, a potentially life-threatening condition. Adrenal insufficiency may present with non-specific symptoms and signs such as nausea, vomiting, anorexia, fatigue, weakness, dizziness and low blood pressure. Advise patients to seek medical attention if they experience a constellation of these symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9)] .
Hypotension
Inform patients that OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE may cause orthostatic hypotension and syncope. Instruct patients how to recognize symptoms of low blood pressure and how to reduce the risk of serious consequences should hypotension occur (e.g., sit or lie down, carefully rise from sitting or lying position) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10)] .
Anaphylaxis
Inform patients that anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE. Advise patients how to recognize such a reaction and when to seek medical attention [see Contraindications ( 4), Adverse Reactions ( 6.2)] .
Pregnancy
Lactation
Advise breastfeeding women using OXYCODONE HYDROCHLORIDE to carefully observe infants for increased sleepiness (more than usual), breathing difficulties, or limpness. Instruct breastfeeding women to seek immediate medical care if they notice these signs [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.2)] .
Infertility
Inform patients that use of opioids for an extended period of time may cause reduced fertility. It is not known whether these effects on fertility are reversible [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.3)] .
Manufactured for: Ohemo Life Sciences Inc.
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(C) 2024, Ohemo Life Sciences Inc.
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