Oxycodone
Oxycodone is a powerful semi-synthetic opioid agonist prescribed for severe pain relief. It works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. Due to risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse, it is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage should be individualized based on severity of pain, patient response, and prior analgesic experience. For adults, typical initial immediate-release doses range from 5 mg to 15 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Extended-release formulations are reserved for continuous, around-the-clock chronic pain management and must be swallowed whole.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Extremely high risk of respiratory depression. Avoid use in neonates and infants unless managed by a specialized pediatric pain management team.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Routine use is not recommended. Dosing in infants must be strictly calculated and monitored by healthcare professionals.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 mg to 0.15 mg per kg
- Frequency
- Every 4 to 6 hours as needed
- Tracking Notes
- Pediatric dosing must be carefully calculated (approx. 0.4 mg to 1.5 mg). Use oral solution with an accurate measuring device. Only use under strict medical supervision.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 mg to 0.15 mg per kg
- Frequency
- Every 4 to 6 hours as needed
- Tracking Notes
- Approximate dose is 0.5 mg to 2.25 mg. Monitor closely for signs of sedation, shallow breathing, or respiratory depression.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 mg to 0.15 mg per kg
- Frequency
- Every 4 to 6 hours as needed
- Tracking Notes
- Approximate dose is 0.8 mg to 3 mg. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Extremely high risk of respiratory depression. Avoid use in neonates and infants unless managed by a specialized pediatric pain management team. |
| 5-7 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Routine use is not recommended. Dosing in infants must be strictly calculated and monitored by healthcare professionals. |
| 8-10 kg | 0.05 mg to 0.15 mg per kg | Every 4 to 6 hours as needed | Pediatric dosing must be carefully calculated (approx. 0.4 mg to 1.5 mg). Use oral solution with an accurate measuring device. Only use under strict medical supervision. |
| 11-15 kg | 0.05 mg to 0.15 mg per kg | Every 4 to 6 hours as needed | Approximate dose is 0.5 mg to 2.25 mg. Monitor closely for signs of sedation, shallow breathing, or respiratory depression. |
| 16-20 kg | 0.05 mg to 0.15 mg per kg | Every 4 to 6 hours as needed | Approximate dose is 0.8 mg to 3 mg. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration. |
Formulation
Purpose
Management of moderate to severe pain when alternative pain management treatments are inadequate or not tolerated.
Generic Name
OxycodoneBranded Drug Names
Oxycodone is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.