Safety and Efficacy of Controlled-Release Oxycodone ( Oxycontin )

Safety and Efficacy of Controlled-Release Oxycodone: A Systematic Literature Review



from Pharmacotherapy
Posted 09/12/2002


D. Gary Rischitelli, M.D., J.D., M.P.H., Sean H. Karbowicz, Pharm.D.



Abstract and Introduction

Abstract

Prescriptions for controlled-release oxycodone, a narcotic analgesic, recently contributed to a dramatic increase in pharmacy costs for a large private insurance company. To determine whether this agent offered clinical benefits over other available drugs that would justify its significantly greater cost, a systematic review of 16 clinical trials was undertaken. The review suggested that immediate-release and controlled-release preparations of oxycodone have similar efficacy and comparable side effect profiles. Controlled-release oxycodone has the advantage of less frequent dosing than immediate-release oxycodone; however, other agents may be dosed infrequently at much lower costs. For patients requiring a controlled-release opioid treatment, controlled-release morphine and methadone should be considered because they appear to be as effective as oxycodone and cost considerably less. Controlled-release oxycodone may be appropriate for some patients, particularly if they cannot tolerate other controlled-release or long-acting opioid analgesics.

http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/439812