Side Effects of Oxycodone/APAP

Nausea, drowsiness, and constipation are among the most common side effects of oxycodone/APAP. Some of the rare side effects may include headaches, diarrhea, and thirst. Although most side effects tend to be minor and are generally easy to treat, there are potentially serious side effects of the drug that require immediate medical attention. Notify your healthcare provider right away if you experience symptoms such as difficulty passing urine or severe constipation.

An Introduction to Oxycodone/APAP Side Effects

As with any medicine, oxycodone/APAP (Endocet®, Magnacet™, Percocet®, Roxicet™, Tylox®) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with oxycodone/APAP. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of oxycodone/APAP side effects with you.)
 

Serious Side Effects

Some side effects with oxycodone/APAP, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Severe constipation
  • Slow or irregular breathing
  • Difficulty passing urine or decreased urination
  • Signs of liver damage, such as:

 

    • Yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
    • Upper-right abdominal pain (stomach pain)
    • Dark urine

 

  • The urge to take more oxycodone/APAP than prescribed or for a non-medical purpose
  • Confusion
  • Anxiety or fear
  • Severe drowsiness
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:

 

    • An unexplained rash
    • Hives
    • Itching
    • Swelling of the mouth or throat
    • Wheezing
    • Difficulty breathing.

 

Side Effects of Oxycodone/APAP Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Other Articles in This eMedTV Presentation