Ativan and Oxycodone

[rosemariev]

I have seen patients on very low doses of ativan such as 1mg PO tab q 4-6 hrs and then they also have a PRN for 5-10MG PO oxycodone tabs. I have found conflicting information about giving ativan and oxycodone close together. However a pt should be watched closely seemd to be the same advice given in most information with this comination.

I would like to know what information you may have.

Thanks

[sbostonRN]

It depends on the patient. I have given both together and totally snowed the patient (never did that to him again!). And sometimes it's the right blend to help them relax and provide pain control. If the resp rate and BP are good I would try both and monitor closely.

[loriangel14, RN]

As long as the VS are stable I would give both at the same time.Quite frequently they need both to give them comfort and quite often it will be passed along in report to please give both together.I have found that the analgesic is more effective that way.

[rosemariev]

Thank you for the input as the result was good/stable v/s but unable to wake for about 8 hours. Considering the night prior I think it was much needed rest and the combo of drugs given. It did scare me that he wouldn't wake up. Thanks for the input.

[SaoirseRN]

Also depends on whether the patient is used to taking these drugs. Somebody who has been on them for years at home will not react the same way as somebody who is narcotic/benzo naive.

[loriangel14, RN]

Thank you for the input as the result was good/stable v/s but unable to wake for about 8 hours. Considering the night prior I think it was much needed rest and the combo of drugs given. It did scare me that he wouldn't wake up. Thanks for the input.

Yes I have seen that as well. If the patient is exhausted they will sleep for a while once the pain is finally under control and the Ativan helps them relax.