Med change

[dianne45]

My dr has asked me to think about changing from oxycodone 10/325 5xdaily (percocet) to oxycontin. I've done the research on oxycontin as requested and can see that they most likely are worrying about the dose of tylenol for so long.  I do want to decrease pain meds and am worried about addiction. This percocet rx has been ongoing for at least 3-4 years on an increasing dose basis.  I have a connective tissue disorder as well as an inflammatory arthritis - various tendon tears/problems, 3 broken metatarsals, back and joint surgeries, etc.  Has anyone experienced such a change and offer any advice?

[skmedlin27703]

The oxycontin is the same as percocet but without the Tylenol and will give you longer lasting relief...  I would just make sure you take it exactly as directed and you may find it works better for you... its different for everyone... good luck

[Dee1956]

Hi, I agree with MaryCarmel
I think you should switch as the doctor is offering.  
I wish you the best
Dee

[marycarmel]

If it's only the tylenol that you're worried about, you could be changed to straight oxycodone.  Oxycontin and oxycodone are essentially the same medication, with the oxycontin being time released and the oxycodone immediate release.

Sometimes a long-acting med can help manage your pain better and you can stay at lower dosages, though it seems most people need something for breakthrough pain.

I've run the gamut on nearly all meds, both IR and ER, and now am down to using a small amount of oxycodone on an 'as needed' basis and have found my pain easier to control with that and the use of OTC meds and other non-narcotic meds.

Everyone is different, so you'll have to see what works best for you.  Open and honest communication with your pain doctor is very important in managing chronic pain.