From the Research
The maximum daily oral dose of oxycodone for pediatric patients should not exceed 0.1-0.2 mg/kg every 4-6 hours, with a maximum single dose of 5-10 mg and a total daily dose of 30-60 mg, as supported by the general guidelines for opioid use in children 1, 2. When administering oxycodone to pediatric patients, it is crucial to start at the lowest effective dose and titrate carefully based on pain assessment and monitoring for side effects, such as respiratory depression, sedation, constipation, and nausea. The following factors should be considered when determining the appropriate dose:
- Weight: 0.1-0.2 mg/kg per dose
- Age: pediatric patients require careful dose titration
- Pain severity: dose should be adjusted according to the level of pain
- Opioid tolerance: patients with prior opioid exposure may require higher doses
- Individual response: dose should be tailored to the patient's response to the medication Prophylactic anti-emetics and laxatives should be considered to mitigate potential side effects. The duration of treatment should be limited to the shortest period necessary, with regular reassessment of pain and consideration of weaning to prevent dependence, as highlighted in studies on the efficacy and safety of oxycodone in various populations 3, 4, 5.