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Saturday, December 06, 2008 6071048 asks

Q: Cutting 20 mg oxycontin does (or does not) affect the time release mechanism?

I take 20 mg oxycontin for a herniated disc and severe stenosis. Is it safe (won't disturb the time-release) to cut the 20 mg in half if I do not feel the need for the full 20 mg tablet? I see conflicting answers on the WEB. Thank you.

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Answers (2)
12/ 6/08 12:29pm

I strongly urge you not to break or cut the oxycontin in half.It actually can disturb the time release action of the med.that can result in you getting too much of the med at once,and can be dangerous.If you feel that the 20mgs are too much at one time, talk to your m.d., and have him/her to possibly cut the dosage down to 10 mg tabs,I do know that they make that strength.Smile

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12/ 6/08 2:22pm

I second the advise that you NEVER cut any time-released medication.  This includes most narcotics. fentanyl patches. etc.  I am a healthcare professional and I would suggest that you contact your healthcare provider to get a different pain relief med if this is not working.  Oxycontin does come in 10 mg, maybe you could ask for 10mg twice a day.

THIS IS NOT TO BE TAKEN AS MEDICAL ADVICE.  PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PHYSICIAN!! 

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By 6071048— Last Modified: 12/02/10, First Published: 12/06/08