Oxycodone HCl and Oxycodone 10mg IR: Understanding the Relationship
Yes, Oxycodone HCl (hydrochloride) is the same as Oxycodone 10mg IR (immediate release). Oxycodone hydrochloride is the chemical salt form of oxycodone that is used in pharmaceutical formulations, including immediate release tablets.
Chemical Composition and Formulation
Oxycodone is available in different formulations, with the immediate release (IR) version being specifically designed to provide rapid onset of analgesia:
- Oxycodone hydrochloride is the active pharmaceutical ingredient in all oxycodone formulations 1
- The immediate release formulation has an onset of action within 10-30 minutes and duration of 3-6 hours 2
- IR formulations are typically dosed every 4-6 hours as needed for pain 3
Clinical Characteristics of Oxycodone IR
The immediate release formulation of oxycodone hydrochloride has specific pharmacokinetic properties:
- Oral bioavailability ranges from 60% to 87% 1, 4
- Plasma protein binding is approximately 45% 1
- Half-life is approximately 3-4 hours for the immediate release formulation 4
- Time to reach steady-state plasma concentrations is approximately 18-24 hours 1
Distinction from Extended-Release Formulations
It's important to distinguish oxycodone HCl immediate release from extended-release formulations:
- Immediate release oxycodone is designed for rapid onset pain control and shorter duration of action 3
- Extended-release formulations (like OxyContin) are designed for 12-hour dosing and are not appropriate for acute pain management 2, 3
- Extended-release oxycodone should not be used for acute pain or on an as-needed basis 3
Regulatory Classification
Oxycodone, including the immediate release hydrochloride formulation, is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse 2, 3:
- This classification applies to both the single-ingredient oxycodone products and combination products with other analgesics 2
- The 10mg IR formulation specifically refers to the strength of the oxycodone component in the tablet
Clinical Use Considerations
When prescribing oxycodone HCl immediate release:
- For acute pain, the immediate release formulation is preferred over extended-release formulations 2, 3
- Dosing should be initiated at the lowest effective dose and titrated based on pain control and side effects 1
- Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, somnolence, dizziness, and pruritus 4, 5
- Caution is needed in patients with hepatic impairment, as oxycodone is primarily metabolized in the liver 2, 1
In summary, when a prescription specifies "Oxycodone HCl 10mg IR," it refers to the immediate release formulation of oxycodone hydrochloride at a 10mg strength, which is designed for rapid onset pain control with dosing typically every 4-6 hours as needed.