From the Guidelines
Yes, oxycodone is available in liquid form, typically in concentrations of 5 mg/5 mL or 20 mg/mL, and is prescribed for moderate to severe pain management. The liquid formulation is particularly useful for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills or when more precise dosing adjustments are needed. Patients should carefully measure the prescribed dose using the provided measuring device (like a dropper or oral syringe) rather than household spoons to ensure accuracy. The liquid form may have a faster onset of action compared to tablets since it's already dissolved and ready for absorption. As with all oxycodone formulations, the liquid form is a potent opioid medication that carries risks of dependence, addiction, and respiratory depression. It should only be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider, stored securely away from children, and any unused medication should be properly disposed of according to local guidelines. According to the most recent evidence 1, oxycodone is an opioid with agonist activity at the mu-, delta-, and kappa-opioid receptors and is available in IR and ER formulations, and recent Cochrane reviews found overall evidence that oxycodone provided similar analgesic and adverse effects to morphine.
Some key points to consider when prescribing oxycodone in liquid form include:
- The importance of accurate dosing and measurement to avoid overdose or underdose
- The potential for faster onset of action compared to tablet formulations
- The need for careful monitoring of patients for signs of dependence, addiction, or respiratory depression
- The importance of proper storage and disposal of unused medication to prevent accidental ingestion or diversion.
It's also worth noting that while the evidence from 1 and 1 provides some guidance on the use of oxycodone in certain clinical contexts, the most recent and highest-quality evidence from 1 should be prioritized when making decisions about oxycodone prescribing. Additionally, the evidence from 1 provides some historical context on the use of oxycodone and other opioids in cancer pain management, but is less relevant to current clinical practice.
From the FDA Drug Label
Oxycodone Hydrochloride Oral Concentrate Solution 15 mg oral solution Oxycodone Hydrochloride Oral Solution USP 10 mg/10 mL oral sol’n (fasted) Oxycodone Hydrochloride Oral Solution USP 10 mg/10 mL oral sol’n (fed) Oxycodone Hydrochloride Oral Solution USP 3.33 mg (3.33 mL) oral sol’n
Yes, Oxycodone comes in a liquid form, specifically as an oral solution and oral concentrate solution 2.
From the Research
Forms of Oxycodone
- Oxycodone is available in various forms, including tablets and oral solutions 3.
- Specifically, immediate-release oxycodone (OxyNorm) is available in capsules and oral solution 3.
- There is no mention of a liquid form of oxycodone in the other studies 4, 5, 6, 7.
- However, the availability of an oral solution formulation suggests that oxycodone can be administered in a liquid form, at least in some cases 3.
Administration and Dosage
- The oral solution formulation of oxycodone is likely to be used for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules 3.
- The dosage and administration of oxycodone can vary depending on the specific formulation and the patient's individual needs 3, 4, 6, 7.
- It is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions to ensure safe and effective use of oxycodone 3, 4, 6, 7.