Xtampza Side Effects

A common misconception about using prescription drugs is that they’re entirely safe. However, this is far from the truth. In fact, many medications, if misused, can lead to various complications, including addiction. Among these addictive medications is Xtampza ER, a drug that’s prescribed to individuals who suffer from severe pain. This prescription medication is only intended for regular, round-the-clock use, and taking it in ways other than as directed can lead to negative interactions. Keep reading to learn more about Xtampza side effects and what to avoid when taking it.

What Is Xtampza?

Xtampza ER is an extended-release opioid that’s prescribed to treat severe or chronic pain. It’s designed for patients who require round-the-clock treatment for their pain and, due to its potency, should not be prescribed for long-term use. Xtampza is a brand name for the opioid oxycodone, which is otherwise known by brand names like Roxicodone and Oxaydo. Like other opioids, oxycodone (Xtampza) works by attaching to proteins called opioid receptors located on nerve cells in the brain, spinal cord, gut, and other parts of the body. When this occurs, opioids block pain signaling that travels from the body through the spinal cord to the brain. As a long-acting medication, the side effects of Xtampza extended-release usually last from 12 to 14 hours, providing the user with all-day pain relief. Due to its long-lasting effects, Xtampza is usually taken once daily. While Xtampza ER is effective for many patients who suffer from severe or chronic pain, the medication can produce some unwanted side effects and interactions. It’s important to be mindful of your medication’s possible effects before starting treatment.

Side Effects of Xtampza

Xtampza ER is a medication that should only be prescribed as an alternative treatment when other opioid painkillers or immediate-release drugs are ineffective or intolerable. This must be kept in mind because opioids place patients at risk of developing a substance use disorder, physical dependence, and long-term misuse. Furthermore, Xtampza is rarely, if ever, administered to patients with pre-existing gastrointestinal problems like paralytic ileus. This is because the drug may further exacerbate these conditions, especially if used long-term. Patients with biliary tract disease may be prescribed this medication but should be monitored closely for any worsening symptoms. With this said, common Xtampza side effects include:

Constipation
Nausea
Vomiting
Fatigue
Headache
Dizziness
Abdominal pain
Insomnia

If taken longer than prescribed or recommended, long-term Xtampza ER side effects like adrenal insufficiency may occur, which is marked by symptoms like tiredness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and low blood pressure. Abuse and physical dependence are also symptoms Xtampza users must beware of.

Watching Out for Xtampza Abuse

All opioids have the potential for abuse and addiction, including oxycodone-based medications like Xtampza. Opioid addiction is the result of misuse, which includes behaviors like crushing and snorting Xtampza pills, taking higher doses than prescribed by a doctor, taking the medication without a prescription, and taking someone else’s medication. Individuals who become physically dependent on or addicted to opioids may then turn to more dangerous forms of misuse, such as taking them with alcohol. Due to their potency, individuals who abuse opioids like Xtampza are at high risk for overdose. Opioid overdoses have wreaked havoc on the U.S. since the 1990s and, in many cases, have been fatal. Addiction can take over a person’s life, affecting the individual and the people around them. If someone you know has become addicted to their medication or any other substance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Christian drug rehabilitation center.

What Precautions Should Be Taken When Operating Machinery While on Xtampza ER?

When taking Xtampza ER, it is crucial to not drive or use heavy equipment until you fully understand how the medication affects your cognitive and physical abilities. The drug may cause drowsiness or impair your thinking, which can be hazardous during such activities.

Should Xtampza ER Be Used During Pregnancy?

Based on the information provided in Passage_1, Xtampza ER should generally be avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary and used only after careful consideration of the risks. It is emphasized that there are significant risks associated with its use in pregnant women because it can lead to neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome if used for a long duration. The medication carries a Boxed Warning highlighting these concerns. Moreover, while Xtampza ER itself hasn’t undergone studies in pregnant humans, research on animals suggests potential negative effects such as reduced fetal weight and behavioral changes, attributed to its active ingredient, oxycodone. Therefore, it is crucial to discuss all potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before deciding to use Xtampza ER during pregnancy.

Can Xtampza ER Be Mixed With Alcohol?

No, Xtampza ER should not be mixed with alcohol. Combining the two can severely impact your central nervous system and significantly harm your liver. This mixture can also elevate the levels of both substances in your blood since the liver struggles to process them efficiently, potentially leading to dangerous or even life-threatening respiratory issues.

What Are The Warnings Associated With Xtampza ER?

Xtampza ER carries several significant warnings, notably including Boxed Warnings which indicate serious or life-threatening risks. It is crucial to discuss these warnings in detail with your healthcare provider to determine if Xtampza ER is suitable and safe for your use. Your doctor will explain all the potential risks and consider whether this medication is the most appropriate option for your condition.

What Drug Interactions Should Be Avoided While Taking Xtampza ER?

When taking Xtampza ER, it’s important to avoid certain drugs that could lead to adverse effects or diminished efficacy of the medication. Here are categories and specific examples:

Benzodiazepines: Drugs like alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan) should be avoided due to the increased risk of potentially fatal overdose.

Other Opioids: Adding opioids to a regimen that includes Xtampza ER heightens the risk of an overdose.

Certain Antibiotics: For instance, ciprofloxacin (Cipro) can elevate the serum levels of Xtampza ER, making side effects more likely.

Muscle Relaxants: These, such as cyclobenzaprine, can overly depress the central nervous system when taken with Xtampza ER.

Oral Steroids: Medications like dexamethasone may reduce the effectiveness of Xtampza ER by decreasing its blood levels.

Antipsychotics: Medications like haloperidol (Haldol) and quetiapine (Seroquel) can also severely depress the central nervous system.

Blood Pressure Medications: Drugs such as diltiazem and verapamil might amplify the sedative effects, increasing risks like drowsiness.

Herbal Supplements: St. John's Wort, for example, can reduce the effectiveness of Xtampza ER.

Sleep Medications: Drugs like suvorexant (Belsomra) and zolpidem (Ambien) should be avoided because they too can depress the central nervous system significantly.

Avoiding these drugs while taking Xtampza ER is crucial to prevent dangerous interactions and ensure the medication functions effectively.

What Is The Half-Life of Xtampza ER?

The half-life of Xtampza ER, which is the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body, is approximately 5.6 hours after it has been administered.

What Factors Influence How Long Xtampza ER Stays In The body?

The duration that Xtampza ER remains active in the system can be influenced by various personal and physiological factors. Age plays a significant role; it is observed that it takes about 15% longer for elderly individuals to clear this drug from their system compared to younger people. Gender also impacts this, with women generally showing approximately 20% higher concentrations of Xtampza ER in their bloodstream compared to men, although the reasons for this difference are not fully understood. Additionally, renal function is crucial; those with impaired kidney function take roughly an hour longer to eliminate the medication than those with normal kidney function. Liver health is yet another determinant; individuals with liver damage may experience an elimination rate that is more than twice as slow as those with healthy livers. Other important factors include the person’s overall body weight, the percentage of body fat, genetic factors, and their tolerance to opioids, particularly synthetic ones, which can enhance the efficiency of processing Xtampza ER. Typically, larger individuals might require higher doses to achieve effective pain management.

How Long Can Xtampza ER Be Detected In The Urine, Blood, Hair, and Saliva?

Xtampza ER remains detectable in various tests for different durations after ingestion. In urine, it can be traced for 1 to 3 days. Blood tests can identify its presence for up to six hours. For hair screenings, Xtampza ER can be detected up to 90 days post the last dose. In saliva, it can be detected up to 36 hours, though this duration may vary based on individual metabolic differences.

How Long Do Xtampza ER Withdrawal Symptoms Typically Last?

The usual duration of withdrawal symptoms from Xtampza ER is approximately one week. However, this period can vary depending on the individual's physiological response.

How Can An Xtampza ER Overdose Be Identified?

An overdose of Xtampza ER, a strong central nervous system depressant, can be recognized by healthcare professionals by observing specific symptoms. The primary indicators include the presence of pinpoint pupils, a significant decrease in consciousness, and severe respiratory distress; these symptoms are collectively known as the "opioid overdose triad," which are critical for diagnosing an overdose of this nature. Additional signs to watch for include the skin becoming cold or clammy, bluish discoloration of the lips and fingernails, overall weakness, impaired coordination, and muscle flaccidity. These clinical features arise due to the drug’s impact on the brainstem's regulatory control over breathing.

How Is An Xtampza ER Overdose Treated?

When treating an overdose of Xtampza ER, several critical steps are taken to manage the patient's condition and mitigate the drug's effects. Initially, medical professionals ensure the patient’s airway is clear and stable, and provide support for breathing. Depending on the patient's level of consciousness, this might involve using a simple breathing mask or, in more severe cases, inserting a breathing tube.

To quickly counteract the effects of the overdose, an opioid antagonist such as naloxone is administered. This medication acts rapidly to block the effects of opioids at the receptor sites in the brain, effectively reversing the symptoms of the overdose.

Additionally, if the patient is experiencing complications such as pulmonary edema, oxygen therapy is administered to assist in breathing. Should there be a drop in blood pressure, medications known as vasopressors are used to stabilize the patient's blood pressure. These interventions are essential in managing the physiologic effects of an Xtampza ER overdose and stabilizing the patient.

In What Situations Can A Person Be Switched To Xtampza ER From Other Opioids?

A person may be transitioned to Xtampza ER from other opioids in several scenarios. One common reason is when someone initially taking short-acting oxycodone needs more sustained pain relief, making a switch to this longer-acting medication beneficial for continuous pain management. Alternatively, a patient currently on another long-acting opioid might be moved to Xtampza ER due to reasons such as different insurance plan coverage constraints or the management of side effects more effectively with Xtampza ER. Both situations involve careful consideration by healthcare professionals who will determine the necessary dosage adjustments tailored to individual needs, factoring in aspects like age, liver, and kidney health.

What Are The Signs Of Xtampza ER Addiction?

Signs of an addiction to Xtampza ER can manifest in several ways, including an overwhelming preoccupation with acquiring and using the drug. Those suffering from addiction may begin to neglect their once enjoyable activities and pastimes. Financial difficulties are often a consequence as funds are increasingly directed towards obtaining Xtampza ER. Additionally, this addiction can lead to a noticeable decline in performance and attendance at work or school.

What Treatment Options Are Available For Xtampza ER Addiction?

There are several treatment options available for those struggling with Xtampza ER addiction, tailored to meet different levels of severity and personal circumstances. For individuals dealing with intense addiction or those who find recovery at home challenging, inpatient rehabilitation programs are an effective option. These programs require patients to reside within the treatment facility throughout the duration of their recovery process, allowing for intensive care and supervision. Alternatively, outpatient rehabilitation is available for those with less severe addiction or for individuals who need the flexibility to stay at home. Outpatient care involves visiting a treatment center for regular appointments and therapy sessions. It is also possible to begin recovery with an inpatient program and later transition to an outpatient setting as one progresses toward recovery. Both options aim at supporting individuals through their journey to an Xtampza-free life, with professional help readily available to guide them every step of the way.

What Are Some Alternatives To Xtampza ER?

Certainly, Xtampza ER is just one option among a broad range of extended-release opioid medications used for managing pain. Alongside Xtampza ER, which contains oxycodone, several other medications can serve as alternatives. These include OxyContin, which also uses oxycodone as its active element. Additionally, there are opioids like MS Contin and Kadian, both of which contain morphine. Opana ER, which has oxymorphone, and Exalgo with hydromorphone, provide other alternatives. For different opioid options, one could consider Dolophine, which contains methadone, Nucynta ER with tapentadol, and fentanyl-based Duragesic, which is a transdermal patch. Furthermore, Butrans is another transdermal option that delivers buprenorphine, offering a variety of choices for those considering alternatives to Xtampza ER.

Treatment for Xtampza ER Abuse

Opioid addiction can be detrimental to a person’s physical and mental health. Their relationships, career, and finances may also suffer as a result of their drug use. If you or someone you care about has been impacted by addiction, our Christian residential drug rehab can help.

Call Faith in Recovery today at 888-280-4763 to find out more about our medically assisted detox and opioid addiction treatment to learn how we can aid in your long-term recovery.

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