Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Onexila XL 10mg prolonged-release tablets

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Oxycodone hydrochloride may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Oxycodone hydrochloride

Equivalent medicines (same active substance, strength and form)

and 1 more with the same active substance, strength and form

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

for Onexila XL is a centrally acting, strong painkiller from the group of opioids. Onexila XL is used to treat severe pain, which can be adequately managed only with opioid analgesics. Onexila XL is indicated in adults, and adolescents aged 12 years and older.

What you need to know before you take it

e Onexila XL Do not take Onexila XL

  • if you are allergic to oxycodone hydrochloride or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6),
  • if you suffer from severely depressed breathing (respiratory depression) with too little oxygen in the blood (hypoxia) and/or too much carbon dioxide (hypercapnia) in the blood,
  • if you suffer from severe chronic obstructive lung disease,
  • if you suffer from cor pulmonale (cardiac changes due to chronic overload of lung circulation),
  • if you suffer from acute, severe bronchial asthma,
  • if you suffer from intestinal paralysis (paralytic ileus),
  • if you have an acute abdomen or suffer from a delayed gastric emptying. Warnings and precautions Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Onexila XL if any of these conditions apply to you or applied to you in the past:
  • if you are older or debilitated
  • if your lung, liver or kidney function is severely impaired (see also section 3 "Risk patients"),
  • if you suffer from myxoedema (certain illnesses of the thyroid gland), impaired function of the thyroid gland,
  • if you suffer from adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease),
  • if you suffer from enlargement of the prostate (prostatic hypertrophy),
  • if you suffer from alcoholism or are undergoing alcohol withdrawal and experience complications (e.g. delirium tremens),
  • if you experience a psychosis that is caused by an intoxication (e.g. alcohol),
  • if you suffer from known opioid-dependence,
  • if you suffer from inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis),
  • if you suffer from a disease of the biliary tract,
  • if you suffer from colic of the bile duct and ureter,
  • in conditions with increased brain pressure,
  • if you suffer from disturbances of circulatory regulation,
  • if you suffer from epilepsy or have a seizure (fits) tendency,
  • if you take MAO inhibitors (for the treatment of depression). Incorrect use of Onexila XL The prolonged-release tablet must be swallowed whole, not be chewed or crushed as this leads to rapid oxycodone release due to the damage of the prolonged-release properties. The administration of chewed or crushed Onexila XL leads to a rapid release and absorption of a potentially fatal dose of oxycodone (see section 3 "If you take more Onexila XL than you should"). In case of abusive injection (injection in a vein) the other tablet ingredients may lead to destruction (necrosis) of the local tissue, change of lung tissue (granulomas of the lung) or other serious, potentially lethal events. Surgery The administration of Onexila XL before surgery cannot be recommended due to lacking safety data. Onexila XL should only be administered after bowel surgery when the bowel function has been restored. Long-term treatment and abuse Onexila XL has primary dependence potential. When used for a long time tolerance to the effects and progressively higher doses may be required to maintain pain control. Chronic use of Onexila XL may lead to physical dependence and a withdrawal syndrome may occur upon abrupt cessation. When a patient no longer requires therapy with oxycodone hydrochloride, it may be advisable to taper the dose gradually to prevent symptoms of withdrawal. When used as directed in patients suffering from chronic pain the risk of developing physical or psychological dependence is markedly reduced and needs to be weighed against the potential benefit. Please discuss this with your doctor. Children Onexila XL should not be used in children under 12 years of age because of safety and efficacy concerns. Elderly patients In elderly patients without impairment of kidney and/or liver function a dose adjustment is usually not necessary. Anti-doping warning Athletes should be aware that this medicine may cause a positive reaction to "anti-doping tests". Use of Onexila XL as a doping agent may become a health hazard. Other medicines and Onexila XL Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines.
  • Medicines that dampen the activity of the central nervous system, e.g.
  • sleeping pills or tranquillisers (sedatives, hypnotics)
  • other medicines that act on the nervous system (phenothiazines, neuroleptics)
  • medicines used during surgery (anaesthetics)
  • medicines used to treat depressions
  • medicines used for muscle relaxation
  • medicines used to treat allergies or vomiting (antihistamines, antiemetics)
  • other opiods or alcohol can enhance the side effects of oxycodone, in particular depressed breathing (respiratory depression).
  • Medicines with an anticholinergic effect, e.g.
  • other medicines that act against parasympathetic and cholinergic nerve fibres on the central nervous system (psychotropic medicines)
  • medicines used to treat allergies (antihistamines) or vomiting (antiemetics)
  • medicines used to treat Parkinson's disease can enhance certain side effects of oxycodone (e.g. constipation, dry mouth or urinary disturbances).
  • Cimetidine and inhibitors of cytochrome P450-3A such as ketoconazole, variconazole and erythromycin may inhibit the metabolism of oxycodone. The influence of other medicines that can markedly affect the metabolism of oxycodone has not been investigated.
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can enhance the side effects of oxycodone (e.g. excitation, decrease or increase in blood pressure).
  • In individuals a clinically relevant increase or decrease of blood clotting have been observed if anticoagulants of the coumarin type (medicinal products against blood clotting) are co-applied with Onexila XL. Onexila XL with alcohol Drinking alcohol whilst taking Onexila XL may make you feel more sleepy or increase the risk of serious side effects such as shallow breathing with a risk of stopping breathing, and loss of consciousness. It is recommended not to drink alcohol while you are taking Onexila XL. Pregnancy and breast-feeding If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine. Pregnancy Onexila XL should not be used in pregnancy unless clearly necessary. There is insufficient experience regarding the use of oxycodone in

pregnant women. Oxycodone crosses the placenta into the organism of the child. Prolonged use of oxycodone during pregnancy can cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns. Use of oxycodone during delivery can cause respiratory depression in the newborn. Breast-feeding You should not use Onexila XL when you are breast-feeding. Oxycodone passes into breast milk. Therefore, a risk for the sucking infant cannot be excluded in particular following intake of multiple doses of Onexila XL. Driving and using machines Oxycodone impairs alertness and reactivity to such an extent that the ability to drive and operate machinery is affected or ceases altogether. In these circumstances Onexila XL has moderate to major influence on the ability to drive and use machines. With stable therapy, a general ban on driving a vehicle may be not necessary. In these circumstances Onexila XL has minor influence on the ability to drive and use machines. The treating physician must assess the individual situation. Please discuss with your doctor whether or under what conditions you can drive a vehicle. To look at the possible side effects affecting the motor skills and concentration see section 4. "Possible side effects". Onexila XL contains sucrose This medicinal product contains sucrose. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before you take this medicinal product.

How to take it

Onexila XL Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. The recommended dose is Adults and adolescents (≥12 years of age) The usual initial dose is 10 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride once daily, preferably taken at the same time each day. Some patients may benefit from a starting dose of 5 mg to minimise the incidence of side effects. For doses not realisable/practicable with this medicinal product other strengths and medicinal products are available. Further determination of the daily dose and any dose adjustments during the further course of therapy are performed by the treating physician and depend on the previous dosage. Dose adjustments should be made in steps of approximately one third of the daily dose to reduce the risk of possibly occurring side effects. In general, the lowest effective dose for the relief of pain should be chosen. Patients who have already taken opioids can start treatment with higher dosages taking into account their experience with opioid treatment. Some patients who receive Onexila XL need rapidly acting painkillers as rescue medication to control breakthrough pain. Onexila XL is not intended for the treatment of breakthrough pain. For the treatment of non-cancer pain a daily dose of 40 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride is generally sufficient, but higher dosages may be necessary. Patients with cancer pain usually require dosages from 80 to 120 mg of oxycodone hydrochloride which may be increased up to 400 mg in individual cases. The treatment needs to be controlled regularly with regard to pain relief and other effects in order to achieve the best pain therapy possible as well as to be able to treat any occurring side effects in good time and to decide whether treatment should be continued. Your doctor will adjust the dosage depending on the pain intensity and how you respond to the treatment (see also section 2, "Warnings and precautions"). Risk patients If you have impaired kidney and/or liver function or if you have a low body weight your doctor may prescribe a lower starting dose. Use in children under 12 years of age Onexila XL should not be used in children under 12 years of age because of safety and efficacy concerns. Method of administration Onexila XL is for oral use only. Take the tablets once daily as advised by your doctor. Swallow the prolonged-release tablets whole with a sufficient amount of liquid (1⁄2 glass of water) with or without food, preferably at the same time each day. The prolonged-release tablets must be swallowed whole, not chewed or crushed (see also section 2, "Warnings and precautions"). Opening instruction for the blister This medicinal product is packed in a child-resistant blister. You cannot press out the prolonged-release tablets through the blister. Please observe the following opening instruction for the blister: 1. Tear off a single dose along the perforation line of the blister. 2. Hereby an unsealed area is accessible which is located at the position, where the perforation lines have crossed. 3. Pull at the unsealed "strap" to peel off the cover seal. If you take more Onexila XL than you should If you have taken more Onexila XL as prescribed you should inform your doctor or your local poison control centre immediately. The following symptoms may occur: constricted pupils (miosis), depressed breathing (respiratory depression), sleepiness, skeletal muscle flaccidity and drop in blood pressure. In severe cases circulatory collapse, drowsiness, unconsciousness (coma), slowing of the heart rate (bradycardia) and accumulation of water in the lungs (non-cardiogenic lung oedema) may occur; abuse of high doses of strong opioids such as oxycodone can be fatal. In no case you should expose yourself to situations requiring elevated concentration e.g. driving a car. If you forget to take Onexila XL If you miss the intake of Onexila XL, pain relief will consequently be insufficient or cease altogether. You can make up for a forgotten dose if the next regular intake is not due for at least another 12 hours. You can then continue to take Onexila XL as directed. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. If you stop taking Onexila XL Do not stop treatment without informing your doctor. When a patient no longer requires therapy with Onexila XL, it may be advisable to taper the dose gradually to prevent symptoms of withdrawal. A withdrawal syndrome may occur upon abrupt cessation of therapy. For symptoms of the withdrawal syndrome see section 4 "Possible side effects". If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Significant side effects or signs to consider and measures to be taken when these side effects or signs occur If you experience any of the following side effects, stop taking Onexila XL and contact your doctor immediately. Depressed breathing (slowed breathing) is the most significant risk induced by opioids and is most likely to occur in elderly or debilitated patients. As a consequence, in predisposed patients opioids can cause severe drops in blood pressure. Apart from this oxycodone can cause constricted pupils, bronchial spasms and spasms in smooth muscles and suppress the cough reflex. Other possible side effects Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people)

  • sedation (tiredness to drowsiness), dizziness, headache
  • constipation, feeling or being sick
  • itching Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people)
  • loss of appetite
  • several psychological side effects such as
  • changes in mood (e.g. anxiety, depression, euphoria)
  • changes in activity (mostly sedation, sometimes accompanied by lethargy, occasionally increase with restlessness, nervousness and sleep disorders)
  • changes in performance (thought process disorder, confusion, amnesia, isolated cases of speech disorders)
  • pins and needles (paraesthesia)
  • lowering of blood pressure, rarely accompanied by symptoms such as pounding or racing heartbeat (palpitations), fainting
  • depressed breathing (dyspnoea), bronchospasm (difficulty in breathing or wheezing)
  • dry mouth, rarely accompanied by thirst and difficulty swallowing,
  • gastrointestinal disorders such as bellyache, diarrhoea, belching, upset stomach (dyspepsia)
  • skin disorders including rash, rarely increased sensitivity to light (photosensitivity), in isolated cases itchy (urticaria) or scaly rash (exfoliative dermatitis)
  • urinary disorders (urinary retention, but also frequent urination)
  • feeling weak (asthenia), sweating, chills

Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people)

  • allergic reactions
  • syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion which leads to frequent urination
  • change in perception such as depersonalisation, hallucinations, change in taste
  • both increased and decreased muscle tone, trembling (tremor), tics, reduced sense of touch (hypaesthesia), coordination disturbances, dizziness
  • changes in tear secretion, constriction of the pupil, visual disturbances
  • abnormally acute sense of hearing (hyperacousis)
  • accelerated pulse, widening of the blood vessels (vasodilatation)
  • increased coughing, pharyngitis, runny nose, voice changes
  • oral ulcers, inflammation of the gums, inflamed mouth (stomatitis), flatulence
  • biliary colics, increased liver enzymes
  • disturbances of sexual function (reduced sexual desire and impotence)
  • accidental injuries, pain (e.g. chest pain), feeling unwell, excessive fluid in the tissues (oedema), migraine
  • physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people)
  • lymph node disease (lymphadenopathy)
  • lack of water in the body (dehydration)
  • fits (seizures), in particular in patients suffering from epilepsy or with a tendency to fits
  • muscle spasms (muscle cramps)
  • gum bleeding, increased appetite, dark-coloured stools, tooth staining and damage, obstruction in the gut (ileus) –

dry skin, herpes simplex (disorder of the skin and mucosa) blood in urine (haematuria) absence of menstrual bleeding (amenorrhoea) changes in body weight (loss or rise), cellulitis

Very rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people)

  • severe allergic reactions (anaphylactic reactions)
  • speech disorders Tolerance and dependence may develop with chronic use and a withdrawal syndrome may occur upon abrupt cessation of therapy. The withdrawal syndrome is characterised by some or all of the following: restlessness, increased production of tears, runny nose, yawning, sweating, chills, muscle pain, abnormal dilatation of the pupil and sensation of irregular and forceful heartbeat. Other symptoms may also develop, including: irritability, anxiety, backache, joint pain, weakness, belly cramps, sleeplessness, being sick, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, or increased blood pressure, breathing rate or heart rate. Counteractive measures If you observe any of the above listed side effects your doctor usually will take appropriate measures. The side effect constipation may be prevented by fibre enriched diet and increased drinking. If you are suffering from sickness or vomiting your doctor will prescribe you an appropriate medicine. If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How to store it

Onexila XL Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the blister and the carton after "EXP". The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. This medicinal product does not require any special storage conditions. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Onexila XL contains The active substance is oxycodone hydrochloride. Onexila XL 10 mg prolonged-release tablets: Each prolonged-release tablet contains 10 mg oxycodone hydrochloride equivalent to 8.97 mg oxycodone. Onexila XL 20 mg prolonged-release tablets: Each prolonged-release tablet contains 20 mg oxycodone hydrochloride equivalent to 17.94 mg oxycodone. Onexila XL 40 mg prolonged-release tablets: Each prolonged-release tablet contains 40 mg oxycodone hydrochloride equivalent to 35.87 mg oxycodone. Onexila XL 80 mg prolonged-release tablets: Each prolonged-release tablet contains 80 mg oxycodone hydrochloride equivalent to 71.75 mg oxycodone. The other ingredients are: Tablet core: Sugar spheres (sucrose, maize starch), hypromellose, talc, ethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, propylene glycol, carmellose sodium, cellulose, microcrystalline, magnesium stearate (Ph. Eur.), silica, colloidal anhydrous. Onexila XL 10 mg prolonged-release tablets: Tablet coating: Opadry® II White (consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, talc, titanium dioxide (E171), macrogol 3350). Onexila XL 20 mg prolonged-release tablets: Tablet coating: Opadry® II White (consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, talc, titanium dioxide (E171), macrogol 3350) and Opadry® II Yellow (consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, talc, macrogol 3350, iron oxide, yellow (E172)). Onexila XL 40 mg prolonged-release tablets: Tablet coating: Opadry® II White (consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, talc, titanium dioxide (E171), macrogol 3350) and Opadry® II Red (consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, talc, macrogol 3350 iron oxide, red (E172)). Onexila XL 80 mg prolonged-release tablets: Tablet coating: Opadry® II White (consisting of polyvinyl alcohol, talc, titanium dioxide (E171), macrogol 3350). What Onexila XL looks like and contents of the pack Onexila XL 10 mg prolonged-release tablets: White, round, biconvex prolonged-release tablets with a diameter of 6.16 mm. Onexila XL 20 mg prolonged-release tablets: Yellowish to yellow, oblonged, biconvex prolonged-release tablets with a diameter of 10.2 mm x 4.7 mm and with a breakline on both sides. The tablet can be divided into equal doses. Onexila XL 40 mg prolonged-release tablets: Pink, oblonged, biconvex prolonged-release tablets with a diameter of 12.3 mm x 5.8 mm and with a breakline on both sides. The tablet can be divided into equal doses. Onexila XL 80 mg prolonged-release tablets: White, oblonged, biconvex prolonged-release tablets with a diameter of 16.3 mm x 7.8 mm and with a breakline on both sides. The tablet can be divided into equal doses. Pack sizes: 10, 14, 20, 28, 30, 50, 56, 60, 98 and 100 prolonged-release tablets in child-resistant perforated unit dose blister. Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer Marketing Authorisation Holder Rivopharm UK Ltd 30th Floor 40 Bank Street Canary Wharf London E14 5NR United Kingdom Manufacturer Develco Pharma GmbH Grienmatt 27 Schopfheim 79650 Germany

This leaflet was last revised in 07/2016

Frequently asked questions about Onexila XL 10mg prolonged-release tablets

How do I take Onexila XL 10mg prolonged-release tablets?

Onexila XL 10mg prolonged-release tablets comes as tablet containing 10mg. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Onexila XL 10mg prolonged-release tablets?

The active substance in Onexila XL 10mg prolonged-release tablets is oxycodone hydrochloride.

Are there equivalent medicines to Onexila XL 10mg prolonged-release tablets?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Ixyldone 10 mg prolonged-release tablets, Longtec 10 mg Prolonged Release Tablets, Oxeltra 10 mg Prolonged-Release Tablets. In total there are 6 equivalent products. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Onexila XL 10mg prolonged-release tablets, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Onexila XL 10mg prolonged-release tablets without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Oxycodone hydrochloride (89 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

Severe pain, which can be adequately managed only with opioid analgesics.

Onexila XL is indicated in adults, and adolescents aged 12 years and older.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Posology

The dosage depends on the intensity of pain and the patient's individual susceptibility to the treatment.

The following general dosage recommendations apply:

Adults and adolescents (≥12 years)

Dose titration

In general, the initial dose for opioid naïve patients is 10 mg oxycodone hydrochloride given once daily. Some patients may benefit from a starting dose of 5 mg to minimise the incidence of adverse reactions. For the lower starting dose other medicinal products with more appropriate strengths are available.

Patients already receiving opioids may start treatment with higher dosages taking into account their experience with former opioid therapies.

For doses not realisable/practicable with this medicinal product, other strengths and medicinal products are available.

According to well-controlled clinical studies 10-13 mg oxycodone hydrochloride correspond to approximately 20 mg morphine sulphate, both in the prolonged-release formulation.

Because of individual differences in sensitivity for different opioids, it is recommended that patients should start conservatively with Onexila XL after conversion from other opioids, with 50-75% of the calculated oxycodone dose.

Dose adjustment

Some patients who take Onexila XL need rapid release analgesics as rescue medication in order to control breakthrough pain. Onexila XL is not indicated for the treatment of acute pain and/or breakthrough pain. The single dose of the rescue medication should amount to 1/6 of the equianalgesic daily dose of Onexila XL. Use of the rescue medication more than twice daily indicates that the dose of Onexila XL needs to be increased. The dose should not be adjusted more often than once every 1-2 days until a stable once daily administration has been achieved.

Following a dose increase from 10 mg to 20 mg taken once daily, dose adjustments should be made in steps of approximately one third of the daily dose. The aim is a patient specific dosage which, with once daily administration, allows for adequate analgesia with tolerable undesirable effects and as little rescue medication as possible as long as pain therapy is needed.

In general, the lowest effective analgesic dose should be chosen. For the treatment of non malignant pain a daily dose of 40 mg is generally sufficient; but higher dosages may be necessary. Patients with cancer-related pain may require dosages of 80 to 120 mg, which in individual cases can be increased to up to 400 mg. If even higher doses are required, the dose should be decided individually balancing efficacy with the tolerance and risk of undesirable effects.

Duration of administration

Onexila XL should not be taken longer than necessary. If long-term treatment is necessary due to the type and severity of the illness careful and regular monitoring is required to determine whether and to what extent treatment should be continued. If opioid therapy is no longer indicated it may be advisable to reduce the daily dose gradually in order to prevent symptoms of a withdrawal syndrome.

Elderly patients

Elderly patients without clinical manifestation of impaired liver and/or kidney function usually do not require dose adjustments.

Risk patients

Risk patients, for example patients with impaired renal or hepatic function, low body weight or slow metabolism of medicinal products, should initially receive half the recommended adult dose if they are opioid naïve. Therefore the lowest recommended dosage, i.e. 10 mg, may not be suitable as a starting dose. Dose titration should be performed in accordance with the individual clinical situation.

Paediatric population

Children under 12 years of age

Onexila XL should not be used in children under 12 years of age because of safety and efficacy concerns.

Method of administration

For oral use.

Onexila XL should be taken once daily at the dosage determined.

The prolonged-release tablets may be taken with or independent of meals with a sufficient amount of liquid. Onexila XL must be swallowed whole, not chewed or crushed.

4.3. Contraindications

- Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

- Severe respiratory depression with hypoxia and/or hypercapnia.

- Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

- Cor pulmonale.

- Severe bronchial asthma.

- Paralytic ileus.

- Acute abdomen, delayed gastric emptying.

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Caution is required in

- elderly or debilitated patients,

- patients with severe impairment of lung, hepatic or renal function,

- myxoedema, hypothyroidism,

- Addison's disease (adrenal insufficiency),

- intoxication psychosis (e.g. alcohol),

- prostatic hypertrophy,

- alcoholism, known opioid dependence,

- delirium tremens,

- pancreatitis,

- diseases of the biliary tract,

- biliary or ureteric colic,

- conditions with increased brain pressure,

- disturbances of circulatory regulation,

- epilepsy or seizure tendency,

- patients taking MAO inhibitors.

In suspicion or in case of paralytic ileus administration of Onexila XL has to be stopped immediately.

Surgical procedures

Special care should be taken when oxycodone is applied in patients undergoing bowel-surgery. Opioids should only be administered post-operatively when the bowel function has been restored.

The safety of Onexila XL used pre-operatively has not been established and cannot be recommended.

Respiratory and cardiac depression

Respiratory depression is the most significant risk induced by opioids and is most likely to occur in elderly or debilitated patients. The respiratory depressant effect of oxycodone can lead to increased carbon dioxide concentrations in blood and hence in cerebrospinal fluid. In predisposed patients opioids can cause severe decrease in blood pressure.

Tolerance and dependence

Long-term use of oxycodone can cause the development of tolerance which leads to the use of higher doses in order to achieve the desired analgesic effect. There is a cross-tolerance to other opioids. Chronic use of oxycodone can cause physical dependence. Withdrawal symptoms may occur following abrupt discontinuation of therapy. If therapy with oxycodone is no longer required it may be advisable to reduce the daily dose gradually in order to avoid the occurrence of a withdrawal syndrome.

Oxycodone has a primary dependence potential. However, when used as directed in patients with chronic pain the risk of developing physical or psychological dependence is markedly reduced or needs to be assessed in a differentiated manner. There are no data available on the actual incidence of psychological dependence in chronic pain patients. In patients with a history of alcohol and drug abuse the medicinal product must be prescribed with special care.

Abuse

In case of abusive parenteral venous injection the tablet excipients may lead to necrosis of the local tissue, granulomas of the lung or other serious, potentially fatal events. To avoid damage to the controlled release properties of the tablets the prolonged-release tablets must not be chewed or crushed. The administration of chewed or crushed tablets leads to rapid release and absorption of a potentially fatal dose of oxycodone (see section 4.9).

Alcohol

Concomitant use of alcohol and Onexila XL may increase the undesirable effects of Onexila XL; concomitant use should be avoided.

Special patient groups

Patients with severe hepatic impairment should be closely monitored.

Paediatric population

The safety and efficacy of Onexila XL in children aged 12 years and younger have not been established. Onexila XL should not be used in children aged 12 years and younger because of safety and efficacy concerns.

Anti-doping warning

Athletes must be aware that this medicine may cause a positive reaction to 'anti-doping' tests.

Use of Onexila XL as a doping agent may become a health hazard.

Excipients

This medicinal product contains sucrose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption or sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency should not take this medicine.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

• Central nervous system depressants (e.g. sedatives, hypnotics, phenothiazines, neuroleptics, anaesthetics, antidepressants, muscle relaxants, antihistamines, antiemetics) and other opioids or alcohol can enhance the adverse reactions of oxycodone, in particular respiratory depression.

• Anticholinergics (e.g. neuroleptics, antihistamines, antiemetics, antiparkinson medicinal products) can enhance the anticholinergic undesirable effects of oxycodone (such as constipation, dry mouth or micturition disorders).

• Cimetidine and inhibitors of cytochrome P450-3A such as ketoconazole, variconazole and erythromycin may inhibit the metabolism of oxycodone.

• Monoaminooxidase (MAO) inhibitors are known to interact with narcotic analgesics, producing CNS excitation or depression with hyper- or hypotensive crisis (see section 4.4).

• The inhibition of cytochrome P450 2D6 and 3A4 has no clinical relevance, however, strong CYP2D6 inhibitors may have an effect on the elimination of oxycodone. The effect of other relevant isoenzyme inhibitors on the metabolism of oxycodone is not known. Potential interactions should be taken into account.

• Clinically relevant changes in International Normalised Ratio (INR) in both directions have been observed in individuals if coumarin anticoagulants are co-applied with oxycodone.

• Alcohol may enhance the pharmacodynamic effects of Onexila XL; concomitant use should be avoided.

There are no studies investigating the effect of oxycodone on CYP catalysed metabolism of other active substances.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Use of this medicinal product should be avoided to the extent possible in patients who are pregnant or lactating.

Pregnancy

There are limited data from the use of oxycodone in pregnant women. Infants born to mothers who have received opioids during the last 3 to 4 weeks before giving birth should be monitored for respiratory depression. Withdrawal symptoms may be observed in the newborn of mothers undergoing treatment with oxycodone

Breastfeeding

Oxycodone may be secreted in breast milk and may cause respiratory depression in the newborn. Oxycodone should, therefore, not be used in breastfeeding mothers.

Fertility

Animal toxicology studies have not shown any effects on fertility (see section 5.3).

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

Oxycodone can impair alertness and reactivity to such an extent that the ability to drive and operate machinery is affected or ceases altogether. In these circumstances Onexila XL has moderate to major influence on the ability to drive and use machines.

With stable therapy, a general ban on driving a vehicle is not necessary. In these circumstances Onexila XL has minor influence on the ability to drive and use machines. The treating physician must assess the individual situation.

4.8. Undesirable effects

Summary of the safety profile

Oxycodone can cause respiratory depression, miosis, bronchial spasms and spasms of the smooth muscles and can suppress the cough reflex. Tolerance and dependence may occur (see below).

The most serious adverse reaction, as with other opioids, is respiratory depression (see section 4.9). This is most likely to occur in elderly, debilitated or opioid-intolerant patients. In predisposed patients opioids can cause severe drop in blood pressure.

The adverse reactions considered at least possibly related to treatment are listed below by system organ class and absolute frequency. Frequencies are defined as:

Tabulated list of adverse reactions

Very common

(≥1/10)

Common

(≥1/100 to <1/10)

Uncommon

(≥1/1,000 to <1/100)

Rare

(≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000)

Very rare

(<1/10,000)

Not known

(cannot be estimated from the available data)

Blood and lymphatic system disorders

Rare:

lymphadenopathy

Immune system disorders

Uncommon:

hypersensitivity

Very rare:

anaphylactic reactions

Endocrine disorders

Uncommon:

syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Common:

anorexia

Rare:

dehydration

Psychiatric disorders

Common:

various psychological adverse reactions including changes in mood (e.g. anxiety, depression, euphoria), changes in activity (mostly suppression sometimes associated with lethargy, occasionally increase with agitation, nervousness and insomnia) and changes in cognitive performance (abnormal thinking, confusion, amnesia, isolated cases of speech disorders)

Uncommon:

change in perception such as depersonalisation, hallucinations change in taste

Nervous system disorders

Very common:

somnolence, dizziness, headache

Common:

paraesthesia

Uncommon:

both increased and decreased muscle tone, tremor, involuntary muscle contractions, hypaesthesia, coordination disturbances, vertigo

Rare:

seizures, in particular in epileptic patients or patients with tendency to convulsions, muscle spasm

Very rare:

speech disorders

Eye disorders

Uncommon:

lacrimation disorder, miosis, visual disturbances

Ear and labyrinth disorders

Uncommon:

hyperacousis

Cardiac disorders

Common:

lowering of blood pressure, rarely accompanied by secondary symptoms such as palpitations, syncope

Uncommon:

supraventricular tachycardia, vasodilatation

Vascular disorders

Common:

lowering of blood pressure, rarely accompanied by secondary symptoms such as palpitations, syncope

Uncommon:

supraventricular tachycardia, vasodilatation

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Common:

respiratory depression, bronchospasm

Uncommon:

increased coughing, pharyngitis, rhinitis, voice changes

Gastrointestinal disorders

Very common:

constipation, nausea, vomiting

Common:

dry mouth, rarely accompanied by thirst and difficulty swallowing; gastrointestinal disorders such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, eructation, dyspepsia,

Uncommon:

oral ulcers, gingivitis, stomatitis, flatulence

Rare:

gingival bleeding, increased appetite, melaena, tooth staining and damage, ileus

Hepatobiliary disorders

Uncommon:

biliary colics, hepatic enzyme increased

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Very common:

pruritus

Common:

skin eruptions including rash, in rare cases increased photosensitivity, in isolated cases urticaria or exfoliative dermatitis

Rare:

dry skin, herpes simplex

Renal and urinary disorders

Common:

micturition disturbances (urinary retention, but also increased urge to urinate)

Rare:

haematuria

Reproductive system and breast disorders

Uncommon:

reduced libido, impotence

Rare:

amenorrhoea

General disorders and administration site conditions

Common:

asthenia, hyperhydrosis, chills

Uncommon:

accidental injuries, pain (e.g. chest pain), malaise, oedema, migraine, physical dependence with withdrawal symptoms

Rare:

weight changes (increase or decrease), cellulitis

Description of selected adverse reactions

Tolerance and dependence may develop with chronic use and a withdrawal syndrome may occur upon abrupt cessation of therapy. The opioid abstinence or withdrawal syndrome is characterised by some or all of the following: restlessness, lacrimation, rhinorrhoea, yawning, perspiration, chills, myalgia, mydriasis and palpitations. Other symptoms also may develop, including: irritability, anxiety, backache, joint pain, weakness, abdominal cramps, insomnia, nausea, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhoea, or increased blood pressure, respiratory rate or heart rate.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme. Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard.

4.9. Overdose

Symptoms

Miosis, respiratory depression, somnolence, reduced skeletal muscle tone and drop in blood pressure. In severe cases circulatory collapse, stupor, coma, bradycardia and non-cardiogenic lung oedema may occur; abuse of high doses of strong opioids such as oxycodone can be fatal.

Management

Primary attention should be given to the establishment of a patent airway and institution of assisted or controlled ventilation.

In the event of overdosing intravenous administration of an opiate antagonist (e.g. 0.4-2 mg intravenous naloxone) may be indicated. Administration of single doses must be repeated depending on the clinical situation at intervals of 2 to 3 minutes. Intravenous infusion of 2 mg of naloxone in 500 ml isotonic saline or 5% dextrose solution (corresponding to 0.004 mg naloxone/ml) is possible. The rate of infusion should be adjusted to the previous bolus injections and the response of the patient.

Gastric lavage can be taken into consideration. Consider activated charcoal (50 g for adults, 10 -15 g for children), if a substantial amount has been ingested within 1 hour, provided the airway can be protected. It may be reasonable to assume that late administration of activated charcoal may be beneficial for prolonged-release preparations; however there is no evidence to support this.

For speeding up the passage a suitable laxative (e.g. a PEG based solution) may be useful.

Supportive measures (artificial respiration, oxygen supply, administration of vasopressors and infusion therapy) should, if necessary, be applied in the treatment of accompanying circulatory shock. Upon cardiac arrest or cardiac arrhythmias cardiac massage or defibrillation may be indicated. If necessary, assisted ventilation as well as maintenance of water and electrolyte balance.

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