Oxycodone HCl 5mg – Low-Dose Opioid for Moderate Pain Control
(Available in Immediate-Release [IR] Formulation)
Therapeutic Profile
• Schedule II Controlled Substance (High caution required)
• Onset: 15-30 minutes
• Duration: 4-6 hours
• METABOLISM: Liver (CYP3A4/2D6) – Check for drug interactions
Clinical Indications
✔ First-line for opioid-naïve patients with acute pain
✔ Post-procedural pain (dental surgery, minor procedures)
✔ Step-down dosing for opioid taper
✔ Breakthrough pain in palliative care (with baseline ER opioid)
Dosing Guidelines
For OPIOID-NAÏVE Patients:
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Start with 2.5-5mg q4-6h PRN pain
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Max initial dose: 15mg/24 hours
For ELDERLY/DEBILITATED:
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Reduce to 2.5mg initial dose
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Extend interval to q6-8h
Special Cases:
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Renal impairment: Avoid in CrCl <30mL/min
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Hepatic dysfunction: Reduce frequency
Product Identification
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Generic IR:
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White, round tablets (often scored)
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Imprints vary (e.g., “5” or “K 56”)
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Brand Options:
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Oxaydo® (abuse-deterrent formulation)
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Black Box Warnings
⚠️ ADDICTION/OVERDOSE RISK – Even at low doses
⚠️ LIFE-THREATENING RESPIRATORY DEPRESSION
⚠️ NEONATAL WITHDRAWAL with pregnancy use
Safety Protocols
• Naloxone co-prescription required in most states
• 3-7 day limit for acute pain prescriptions
• Storage: Locked container mandatory
• Avoid with:
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Alcohol
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Benzodiazepines
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Other CNS depressants
Prescribing Best Practices
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Always start lowest effective dose
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Reassess after 48 hours
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Taper if used >5 days
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Document MEDD calculations
Clinical Pearl:
“5mg may seem insignificant but can cause fatal respiratory depression in opioid-naïve patients. Always verify tolerance status.”
