From the Research
The equivalent dose of oxycodone for a patient taking 4mg of morphine is approximately 2-3mg of oxycodone, with a recommended starting dose of 2mg and titration up as needed based on the patient's pain control and side effect profile. When converting between opioids, it's essential to use established conversion ratios, and oxycodone is generally considered to be about 1.5 to 2 times more potent than morphine, as noted in various studies 1, 2, 3. This means that a smaller dose of oxycodone is needed to achieve the same analgesic effect as morphine. The most recent and highest quality study on opioid pharmacology and toxicity, published in 2024, highlights the importance of careful conversion and monitoring when switching between opioids 4.
Key Considerations for Opioid Conversion
- Use established conversion ratios to minimize the risk of adverse effects
- Start at the lower end of the equivalent dose range and titrate up as needed
- Close monitoring is essential during the first 24-48 hours to ensure adequate pain control and to watch for signs of either over-sedation or breakthrough pain
- Consider individual patient characteristics, such as age, renal function, and side effects, when converting between opioids 1, 2
Opioid Potency and Conversion Ratios
- Oxycodone is generally considered to be about 1.5 to 2 times more potent than morphine
- The conversion ratio may vary depending on the individual patient and the specific opioid being used
- It's essential to consult up-to-date guidelines and studies, such as those published in 2021 and 2024, to ensure accurate and safe conversion ratios 4, 3