WARNINGS
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
PRECAUTIONS
Addiction, Abuse, And Misuse
OXAYDO contains oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance. As an opioid, OXAYDO exposes
users to the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse [see Drug Abuse And Dependence].
Although the risk of addiction in any individual is unknown, it can occur in patients appropriately
prescribed OXAYDO. Addiction can occur at recommended dosages and if the drug is misused or
abused.
Assess each patient’s risk for opioid addiction, abuse, or misuse prior to prescribing OXAYDO, and
monitor all patients receiving OXAYDO for the development of these behaviors and conditions. Risks
are increased in patients with a personal or family history of substance abuse (including drug or alcohol
abuse or addiction) or mental illness (e.g., major depression). The potential for these risks should not,
however, prevent the proper management of pain in any given patient. Patients at increased risk may be
prescribed opioids such as OXAYDO, but use in such patients necessitates intensive counseling about
the risks and proper use of OXAYDO along with intensive monitoring for signs of addiction, abuse, and
misuse.
Opioids are sought by drug abusers and people with addiction disorders and are subject to criminal
diversion. Consider these risks when prescribing or dispensing OXAYDO. Strategies to reduce these
risks include prescribing the drug in the smallest appropriate quantity and advising the patient on the
proper disposal of unused drug [see PATIENT INFORMATION]. Contact the local state
professional licensing board or state controlled substances authority for information on how to prevent
and detect abuse or diversion of this product.
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression has been reported with the use of opioids,
even when used as recommended. Respiratory depression, if not immediately recognized and treated,
may lead to respiratory arrest and death. Management of respiratory depression may include close
observation, supportive measures, and use of opioid antagonists, depending on the patient’s clinical
status [see OVERDOSE]. Carbon dioxide (CO2) retention from opioid-induced respiratory
depression can exacerbate the sedating effects of opioids.
While serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression can occur at any time during the use of
OXAYDO, the risk is greatest during the initiation of therapy or following a dosage increase. Monitor
patients closely for respiratory depression, especially within the first 24-72 hours of initiating therapy
with and following dosage increases of OXAYDO.
To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of OXAYDO are essential
[see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. Overestimating the OXAYDO dosage when converting patients
from another opioid product can result in a fatal overdose with the first dose.
Accidental ingestion of even one dose of OXAYDO, especially by children, can result in respiratory
depression and death due to an overdose of oxycodone.
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
Prolonged use of OXAYDO during pregnancy can result in withdrawal in the neonate. Neonatal opioid
withdrawal syndrome, unlike opioid withdrawal syndrome in adults, may be life-threatening if not
recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology
experts. Observe newborns for signs of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and manage accordingly.
Advise pregnant women using opioids for a prolonged period of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal
syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available [see Use In Specific Populations , PATIENT INFORMATION].
Risks Of Concomitant Use Or Discontinuation Of Cytochrome P450 3A4 Inhibitors And
Inducers
Concomitant use of OXAYDO with a CYP3A4 inhibitor, such as macrolide antibiotics (e.g.,
erythromycin), azole-antifungal agents (e.g., ketoconazole), and protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir), may
increase plasma concentrations of oxycodone and prolong opioid adverse reactions, which may cause
potentially fatal respiratory depression [see Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression], particularly when an
inhibitor is added after a stable dose of OXAYDO is achieved. Similarly, discontinuation of a CYP3A4
inducer, such as rifampin, carbamazepine, and phenytoin, in OXAYDO-treated patients may increase
oxycodone plasma concentrations and prolong opioid adverse reactions. When using OXAYDO with
CYP3A4 inhibitors or discontinuing CYP3A4 inducers in OXAYDO-treated patients, monitor patients
closely at frequent intervals and consider dosage reduction of OXAYDO until stable drug effects are
achieved [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Concomitant use of OXAYDO with CYP3A4 inducers or discontinuation of a CYP3A4 inhibitor could
decrease oxycodone plasma concentrations, decrease opioid efficacy or, possibly, lead to a withdrawal
syndrome in a patient who had developed physical dependence to oxycodone. When using OXAYDO
with CYP3A4 inducers or discontinuing CYP3A4 inhibitors, monitor patients closely at frequent
intervals and consider increasing the opioid dosage if needed to maintain adequate analgesia or if
symptoms of opioid withdrawal occur [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Risks From Concomitant Use With Benzodiazepines Or Other CNS Depressants
Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result from the concomitant use of
OXAYDO with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants (e.g., non-benzodiazepine
sedatives/hypnotics, anxiolytics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics,
other opioids, alcohol). Because of these risks, reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use
in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.
Observational studies have demonstrated that concomitant use of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines
increases the risk of drug-related mortality compared to use of opioid analgesics alone. Because of
similar pharmacological properties, it is reasonable to expect similar risk with the concomitant use of
other CNS depressant drugs with opioid analgesics [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
If the decision is made to prescribe a benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant concomitantly with an
opioid analgesic, prescribe the lowest effective dosages and minimum durations of concomitant use. In
patients already receiving an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine or
other CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid, and titrate based on clinical response.
If an opioid analgesic is initiated in a patient already taking a benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant,
prescribe a lower initial dose of the opioid analgesic, and titrate based on clinical response. Follow
patients closely for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Advise both patients and caregivers about the risks of respiratory depression and sedation when
OXAYDO is used with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants (including alcohol and illicit drugs).
Advise patients not to drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of concomitant use of the
benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant have been determined. Screen patients for risk of substance
use disorders, including opioid abuse and misuse, and warn them of the risk for overdose and death
associated with the use of additional CNS depressants including alcohol and illicit drugs [see DRUG INTERACTIONS and PATIENT INFORMATION].
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression In Patients With Chronic Pulmonary Disease Or In
Elderly, Cachectic, Or Debilitated Patients
The use of OXAYDO in patients with acute or severe bronchial asthma in an unmonitored setting or in
the absence of resuscitative equipment is contraindicated.
Patients With Chronic Pulmonary Disease
OXAYDO-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 OXAYDO [see Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression].
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 Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression].
Monitor such patients closely, particularly when initiating and titrating OXAYDO and when OXAYDO
is given concomitantly with other drugs that depress respiration [see Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression].
Alternatively, consider the use of non-opioid analgesics in these patients.
Adrenal Insufficiency
Cases of adrenal insufficiency have been reported with opioid use, more often following greater than
one month of use. Presentation of adrenal insufficiency may include non-specific symptoms and signs
including nausea, vomiting, anorexia, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and low blood pressure. If adrenal
insufficiency is suspected, confirm the diagnosis with diagnostic testing as soon as possible. If adrenal
insufficiency is diagnosed, treat with physiologic replacement doses of corticosteroids. Wean the
patient off of the opioid to allow adrenal function to recover and continue corticosteroid treatment until
adrenal function recovers. Other opioids may be tried as some cases reported use of a different opioid
without recurrence of adrenal insufficiency. The information available does not identify any particular
opioids as being more likely to be associated with adrenal insufficiency.
Severe Hypotension
OXAYDO may cause severe hypotension including orthostatic hypotension and syncope in ambulatory
patients. There is increased risk in patients whose ability to maintain blood pressure has already been
compromised by a reduced blood volume or concurrent administration of certain CNS depressant drugs
(e.g., phenothiazines or general anesthetics) [see DRUG INTERACTIONS]. Monitor these patients for signs
of hypotension after initiating or titrating the dosage of OXAYDO. In patients with circulatory shock,
OXAYDO may cause vasodilation that can further reduce cardiac output and blood pressure. Avoid the
use of OXAYDO in patients with circulatory shock.
Risks Of Use In Patients With Increased Intracranial Pressure, Brain Tumors , Head Injury, Or
Impaired Consciousness
In patients who may be susceptible to the intracranial effects of CO2 retention (e.g., those with evidence
of increased intracranial pressure or brain tumors), OXAYDO may reduce respiratory drive, and the
resultant CO2 retention can further increase intracranial pressure. Monitor such patients for signs of
sedation and respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy with OXAYDO.
Opioids may also obscure the clinical course in a patient with a head injury. Avoid the use of
OXAYDO in patients with impaired consciousness or coma.
Risks Of Use In Patients With Gastrointestinal Conditions
OXAYDO is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including
paralytic ileus.
The oxycodone in OXAYDO may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi. Opioids may cause increases
in serum amylase. Monitor patients with biliary tract disease, including acute pancreatitis, for worsening
symptoms.
Increased Risk Of Seizures In Patients With Seizure Disorders
The oxycodone in OXAYDO may increase the frequency of seizures in patients with seizure disorders,
and may increase the risk of seizures occurring in other clinical settings associated with seizures.
Monitor patients with a history of seizure disorders for worsened seizure control during OXAYDO
therapy.
Withdrawal
Avoid the use of mixed agonist/antagonist (e.g, pentazocine, nalbuphine, and butorphanol) or partial
agonist (e.g., buprenorphine) analgesics in patients who are receiving a full opioid agonist analgesic,
including OXAYDO. In these patients, mixed agonist/antagonist and partial agonist analgesics may
reduce the analgesic effect and/or precipitate withdrawal symptoms [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
When discontinuing OXAYDO in a physically-dependent patient, gradually taper the dosage [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. Do not abruptly discontinue OXAYDO in these patients [see Drug Abuse And Dependence].
Risks Of Driving And Operating Machinery
OXAYDO may impair the mental or physical abilities needed to perform potentially hazardous activities
such as driving a car or operating machinery. Warn patients not to drive or operate dangerous machinery
unless they are tolerant to the effects of OXAYDO and know how they will react to the medication [see PATIENT INFORMATION].
Patient Counseling Information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
Addiction, Abuse, And Misuse
Inform patients that the use of OXAYDO, even when taken as recommended, can result in addiction,
abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Instruct
patients not to share OXAYDO with others and to take steps to protect OXAYDO from theft or misuse.
Life-Threatening Respiratory Depression
Inform patients of the risk of life-threatening respiratory depression, including information that the risk
is greatest when starting OXAYDO or when the dosage is increased, and that it can occur even at
recommended dosages [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Advise patients how to recognize
respiratory depression and to seek medical attention if breathing difficulties develop.
Accidental Ingestion
Inform patients that accidental ingestion, especially by children, may result in respiratory depression or
death [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Instruct patients to take steps to store OXAYDO securely
and to dispose of unused OXAYDO by flushing them down the toilet.
Interactions With Benzodiazepines And Other CNS Depressants
Inform patients and caregivers that potentially fatal additive effects may occur if OXAYDO is used with
benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol, and not to use these concomitantly unless
supervised by a health care provider [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS , DRUG INTERACTIONS].
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 medications. [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
MAOI Interaction
Inform patients to avoid taking OXAYDO while using any drugs that inhibit monoamine oxidase. Patients
should not start MAOIs while taking OXAYDO [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
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].
Important Administration Instructions
Instruct patients how to properly take OXAYDO [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ,WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Advise patients:
- that OXAYDO is a narcotic pain reliever and must be taken only as directed.
- not to pre-soak, lick or otherwise wet the tablet prior to placing in the mouth.
- to take each tablet with enough water to ensure complete swallowing immediately after placing in
the mouth.
- that OXAYDO tablets must be swallowed whole and not crushed or dissolved.
- that OXAYDO is not for administration via nasogastric, gastric or other feeding tubes as it may
cause obstruction of feeding tubes.
- that if they miss a dose to take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, advise to
skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Advise patients not to
take 2 doses at once unless instructed by their healthcare provider. If they are not sure about their
dosing, call their healthcare provider.
- not to adjust the dose of OXAYDO without consulting with a physician or other healthcare
professional.
If patients have been receiving treatment with OXAYDO for more than a few weeks and cessation of
therapy is indicated, counsel them on the importance of safely tapering the dose and that abruptly
discontinuing the medication could precipitate withdrawal symptoms. Provide a dose schedule to help
patients gradually discontinue the medication.
Hypotension
Inform patients that OXAYDO 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 a sitting or lying position) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Anaphylaxis
Inform patients that anaphylaxis has been reported with ingredients contained in OXAYDO. Advise
patients how to recognize such a reaction and when to seek medical attention [see CONTRAINDICATIONS , ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Pregnancy
Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome
Inform female patients of reproductive potential that prolonged use of OXAYDO during
pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening
if not recognized and treated [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS , Use In Specific Populations].
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
Inform female patients of reproductive potential that OXAYDO can cause fetal harm and to
inform the healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Use In Specific Populations].
Lactation
Advise nursing mothers to monitor infants for increased sleepiness (more than usual), breathing
difficulties, or limpness. Instruct nursing mothers to seek immediate medical care if they notice these
signs [see Use In Specific Populations].
Infertility
Inform patients that chronic use of opioids may cause reduced fertility. It is not known whether these
effects on fertility are reversible [see Use In Specific Populations].
Driving Or Operating Heavy Machinery
Inform patients that OXAYDO may impair the ability to perform potentially hazardous activities such as
driving a car or operating heavy machinery. Advise patients not to perform such tasks until they know
how they will react to the medication [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Constipation
Advise patients of the potential for severe constipation, including management instructions and when to
seek medical attention [see ADVERSE REACTIONS , CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Disposal Of Unused OXAYDO
Advise patients to keep OXAYDO in a secure place out of the reach of children. When OXAYDO is no
longer needed, the unused tablets should be destroyed by flushing them down the toilet.
Nonclinical Toxicology
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility
Carcinogenesis
Long-term studies in animals to evaluate its carcinogenic potential of oxycodone have not been
conducted.
Mutagenesis
Oxycodone 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) and in an assay for chromosomal aberrations (in vivo mouse bone
marrow micronucleus assay).
Impairment Of Fertility
Studies in animals to evaluate the potential impact of oxycodone on fertility have not been conducted.
Use In Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Risk Summary
Prolonged use of opioid analgesics during pregnancy may cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome
[see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. There are no available data with OXAYDO in pregnant women to
inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage.
In animal reproduction studies with oral administrations of oxycodone HCl 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 background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All
pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, 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 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Prolonged use of opioid analgesics 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].
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. OXAYDO is not recommended for use in
pregnant women during or immediately prior to labor, when other analgesic techniques are more
appropriate. Opioid analgesics, including OXAYDO, 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
Animal Data
In embryo-fetal development studies in rats and rabbits, pregnant animals received oral doses of
oxycodone HCl administered during the period of organogenesis up to 16 mg/kg/day and up 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/m2 basis.
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/m2 basis) 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/m2 basis).
Lactation
Risk Summary
Oxycodone is present in breast milk. Published lactation studies report variable concentrations of
oxycodone in breast milk with administration of immediate-release oxycodone to nursing mothers in the
early postpartum period. The lactation studies did not assess breastfed infants for potential adverse
reactions. Lactation studies have not been conducted with OXAYDO, and no information is available on
the effects of the drug on the breastfed infant or the effects of the drug on milk production. Because of
the potential for serious adverse reactions, including excess sedation and respiratory depression in a
breastfed infant, advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with OXAYDO.
Clinical Considerations
Monitor infants exposed to OXAYDO 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 breastfeeding is stopped.
Females And Males Of Reproductive Potential
Infertility
Chronic use of opioids 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].
Pediatric Use
The safety, effectiveness, and pharmacokinetics of OXAYDO in pediatric patients below the age of 18
have not been established.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients (aged 65 years or older) may have increased sensitivity to oxycodone. In general, use
caution when selecting a dosage for an elderly patient, usually starting at the low end of the dosing
range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function and of
concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Respiratory depression is the chief risk for elderly patients treated with opioids, and has occurred after
large initial doses were administered to patients who were not opioid-tolerant or when opioids were
co-administered with other agents that depress respiration. Titrate the dosage of OXAYDO slowly in
geriatric patients and monitor closely for signs of central nervous system and respiratory depression
[see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Oxycodone 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. Because elderly patients are more likely to
have decreased renal function, care should be taken in dose selection, and it may be useful to monitor
renal function.
Hepatic Impairment
Since oxycodone is extensively metabolized in the liver, its clearance may decrease in patients with
hepatic impairment. Follow a conservative approach to initiate dosing in patients with hepatic
impairment. Monitor patients closely and adjust the dose based on clinical response [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Renal Impairment
Information from oxycodone HCl indicates that patients with renal impairment had higher plasma
concentrations of oxycodone than subjects with normal renal function. Use a conservative approach to
initiate dosing in patients with renal impairment. Monitor patients closely and adjust the dose based on
clinical response [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].