Oxycodone/Acet Product Monograph

SUMMARY PRODUCT INFORMATION

INDICATIONS AND CLINICAL USE

Adults

OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) is indicated for the relief of moderate to moderately severe pain, including conditions accompanied by fever.

OXYCODONE/ACET is not indicated as an as-needed (prn) analgesic.

Geriatrics (> 65 years of age)

In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, concomitant disease or other drug therapy (see ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations and Conditions, Geriatrics).

Pediatrics (< 18 years of age)

The safety and efficacy of OXYCODONE/ACET has not been studied in the pediatric population. Therefore the use of OXYCODONE/ACET is not recommended in patients under 18 years of age.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• Patients who are hypersensitive to the active substance of OXYCODONE/ACET

  (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) or other opioid analgesics or to any ingredient in the formulation. For a complete listing, see the DOSAGE FORMS, COMPOSITION AND PACKAGING section of the Product Monograph.

• Patients with severe hepatic insufficiency or active liver disease.
• In patients with known or suspected mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction (e.g. bowel obstruction or strictures) or any diseases/conditions that affect bowel transit (e.g. ileus of any type).
• Patients with suspected surgical abdomen (e.g. acute appendicitis or pancreatitis).
• Patients with mild pain that can be managed with other pain medications.
• Patients with acute or severe bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive airway, or status asthmaticus.
• Patients with acute respiratory depression, elevated carbon dioxide levels in the blood and cor pulmonale.
• Patients with acute alcoholism, delirium tremens and convulsive disorders.
• Patients with severe CNS depression, increased cerebrospinal or intracranial pressure and head injury.
• Patients taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors (or within 14 days of such therapy).

• Women who are breast-feeding, and during pregnancy, or during labour and delivery (see

  Serious Warnings and Precautions, and Warnings and Precautions).

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

SERIOUS WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Limitations of Use

Because of the risks of addiction, abuse, and misuse with opioids, even at recommended doses, and because of the risks of overdose and death with immediate release opioid formulations, OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen tablets) should only be used in patients for whom alternative treatment options (e.g. non-opioid analgesics) are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide appropriate management of pain (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

Addiction, Abuse, and Misuse

OXYCODONE/ACET poses risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. Each patient’s risk should be assessed prior to prescribing OXYCODONE/ACET, and all patients should be monitored regularly for the development of these behaviours or conditions (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS). OXYCODONE/ACET should be stored securely to avoid theft or misuse.

Life-threatening Respiratory Depression: OVERDOSE

Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of OXYCODONE/ACET. Infants exposed in-utero or through breast milk are at risk of life-threatening respiratory depression upon delivery or when nursed. Patients should be monitored for respiratory depression, especially during initiation of OXYCODONE/ACET or following a dose increase.

OXYCODONE/ACET must be swallowed whole. Cutting, breaking, crushing, chewing, or dissolving OXYCODONE/ACET can lead to dangerous adverse events including death (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS). Further, instruct patients of the hazards related to taking opioids including fatal overdose.

Accidental Exposure

Accidental ingestion of even one dose of OXYCODONE/ACET, especially by children, can result in a fatal overdose of OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, Disposal, for instructions on proper disposal).

Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome

Prolonged maternal use of OXYCODONE/ACET during pregnancy can result in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, which may be life-threatening (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS).

Interaction with Alcohol

The co-ingestion of alcohol with OXYCODONE/ACET should be avoided as it may result in dangerous additive effects, causing serious injury or death (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and DRUG INTERACTIONS).

Risks from Concomitant Use with Benzodiazepines or Other CNS Depressants Concomitant use of opioids with benzodiazepines or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including alcohol, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Neurologic and DRUG INTERACTIONS).

• Reserve concomitant prescribing of OXYCODONE/ACET and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.
• Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required.
• Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.

General

Patients should be instructed not to give OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) tablets to anyone other than the patient for whom it was prescribed, as such inappropriate use may have severe medical consequences, including death. OXYCODONE/ACET should be stored securely to avoid theft or misuse.

OXYCODONE/ACET should only be prescribed by persons knowledgeable in the continuous administration of potent opioids, in the management of patients receiving potent opioids for the treatment of pain, and in the detection and management of respiratory depression, including the use of opioid antagonists.

Patients should be cautioned not to consume alcohol while taking OXYCODONE/ACET as it may increase the chance of experiencing serious adverse events, including death.

Hyperalgesia that will not respond to a further dose increase of OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) can occur at particularly high doses. A OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) dose reduction or change in opioid may be required.

Headache: Because headache often involves a significant psychological component, an opioid analgesic should only be employed for the treatment of headache when no other treatment is effective, in order to minimize the risk of psychological and physical dependence.

Abuse and Misuse

Like all opioids, OXYCODONE/ACET is a potential drug of abuse and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. Therefore, OXYCODONE/ACET should be prescribed and handled with caution.

Patients should be assessed for their clinical risks for opioid abuse or addiction prior to being prescribed opioids. All patients receiving opioids should be routinely monitored for signs of misuse and abuse.

Opioids, such as OXYCODONE/ACET, should be used with particular care in patients with a history of alcohol and illicit/prescription drug abuse. However, concerns about abuse, addiction, and diversion should not prevent the proper management of pain.

OXYCODONE/ACET is intended for oral use only. The tablets should be swallowed whole, and not chewed or crushed. Abuse of oral dosage forms can be expected to result in serious adverse events, including death.

Cardiovascular

OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) administration may result in severe hypotension in patients whose ability to maintain adequate blood pressure is compromised by reduced blood volume, or concurrent administration of drugs such as phenothiazines and other tranquilizers, sedative/hypnotics, tricyclic antidepressants or general anesthetics. These patients should be monitored for signs of hypotension after initiating or titrating the dose of OXYCODONE/ACET.

The use of OXYCODONE/ACET in patients with circulatory shock should be avoided as it may cause vasodilation that can further reduce cardiac output and blood pressure.

Dependence/Tolerance

As with other opioids, tolerance and physical dependence may develop upon repeated administration of OXYCODONE/ACET and there is a potential for development of psychological dependence.

Physical dependence and tolerance reflect the neuroadaptation of the opioid receptors to chronic exposure to an opioid, and are separate and distinct from abuse and addiction. Tolerance, as well as physical dependence, may develop upon repeated administration of opioids, and are not by themselves evidence of an addictive disorder or abuse.

Patients on prolonged therapy should be tapered gradually from the drug if it is no longer required for pain control. Withdrawal symptoms may occur following abrupt discontinuation of therapy or upon administration of an opioid antagonist. Some of the symptoms that may be associated with abrupt withdrawal of an opioid analgesic include body aches, diarrhea,

gooseflesh, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness or restlessness, anxiety, runny nose, sneezing, tremors or shivering, stomach cramps, tachycardia, trouble with sleeping, unusual increase in sweating, palpitations, unexplained fever, weakness and yawning (see ADVERSE REACTIONS and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, Adjustment or Reduction of Dosage).

Use in Drug and Alcohol Addiction

OXYCODONE/ACET is an opioid with no approved use in the management of addictive disorders. Its proper usage in individuals with drug or alcohol dependence, either active or in remission is for the management of pain requiring opioid analgesia. Patients with a history of addiction to drugs or alcohol may be at higher risk of becoming addicted to OXYCODONE/ACET; extreme caution and awareness is warranted to mitigate the risk.

Endocrine

Adrenal Insufficiency: Cases of adrenal insufficiency have been reported with opioid use, more often following greater than one month of use. Presentation of adrenal insufficiency may include non-specific symptoms and signs including nausea, vomiting, anorexia, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and low blood pressure. If adrenal insufficiency is suspected, confirm the diagnosis with diagnostic testing as soon as possible. If adrenal insufficiency is diagnosed, treat with physiologic replacement doses of corticosteroids. Wean the patient off of the opioid to allow adrenal function to recover and continue corticosteroid treatment until adrenal function recovers. Other opioids may be tried as some cases reported use of a different opioid without recurrence of adrenal insufficiency. The information available does not identify any particular opioids as being more likely to be associated with adrenal insufficiency.

Gastrointestinal Effects

OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) and other morphine-like opioids have been shown to decrease bowel motility. OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) may obscure the diagnosis or clinical course of patients with acute abdominal conditions (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Hepatic Effects

Administration of acetaminophen in doses higher than recommended may result in hepatic injury, including the risk of severe hepatotoxicity and death. The maximum daily dose of acetaminophen (400 mg) includes all routes of administration (intravenous, oral, and rectal) and all products containing acetaminophen (oral solution/drops, syrup, pills, capsules, suppositories, etc.). Do not exceed the maximum recommended daily dose of acetaminophen (see DRUG INTERACTIONS).

Administration of acetaminophen doses higher than recommended entails the risk for very serious liver damage. Clinical symptoms of liver damage are usually first seen after one to two days following acetaminophen overdose. Maximum liver damage symptoms are usually observed after 3-4 days (see OVERDOSAGE). Acetaminophen should be used with caution in cases of hepatic insufficiency.

Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS)

Prolonged maternal use of opioids during pregnancy can result in withdrawal signs in the neonate. Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, unlike opioid withdrawal syndrome in adults, may be life-threatening.

Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome presents as irritability, hyperactivity and abnormal sleep pattern, high pitched cry, tremor, vomiting, diarrhea and failure to gain weight. The onset, duration, and severity of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome vary based on the specific opioid used, duration of use, timing and amount of last maternal use, and rate of elimination of the drug by the newborn.

Use of OXYCODONE/ACET is contraindicated in pregnant women (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Neurologic

Interactions with Central Nervous System Depressants (including benzodiazepines and alcohol): OXYCODONE/ACET should be used with caution and in a reduced dosage during concomitant administration of other opioid analgesics, general anesthetics, phenothiazines and other tranquilizers, sedative-hypnotics, tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics, antihistamines, benzodiazepines, centrally-active anti-emetics and other CNS depressants. Respiratory depression, hypotension and profound sedation, coma or death may result.

Observational studies have demonstrated that concomitant use of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines increases the risk of drug-related mortality compared to use of opioid analgesics alone. Because of similar pharmacological properties, it is reasonable to expect similar risk with the concomitant use of other CNS depressant drugs with opioid analgesics (see DRUG INTERACTIONS). If the decision is made to prescribe a benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant concomitantly with an opioid analgesic, prescribe the lowest effective dosages and minimum durations of concomitant use. In patients already receiving an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid, and titrate based on clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is initiated in a patient already taking a benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant, prescribe a lower initial dose of the opioid analgesic, and titrate based on clinical response. Follow patients closely for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.

Advise both patients and caregivers about the risks of respiratory depression and sedation when OXYCODONE/ACET is used with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants (including alcohol and illicit drugs). Advise patients not to drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of concomitant use of the benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant have been determined. Screen patients for risk of substance use disorders, including opioid abuse and misuse, and warn them of the risk for overdose and death associated with the use of additional CNS depressants including alcohol and illicit drugs (see DRUG INTERACTIONS).

OXYCODONE/ACET should not be consumed with alcohol as it may increase the chance of experiencing dangerous side effects, including death (see CONTRAINDICATIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS, Sedation, and DRUG INTERACTIONS).

Severe pain antagonizes the subjective and respiratory depressant actions of opioid analgesics. Should pain suddenly subside, these effects may rapidly become manifest.

Serotonin Syndrome: OXYCODONE/ACET could cause a rare but potentially life-threatening condition resulting from concomitant administration of serotonergic drugs (e.g. anti-depressants, migraine medications). Treatment with the serotoninergic drug should be discontinued if such events (characterized by clusters of symptoms such as hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability with possible rapid fluctuations of vital signs, mental status changes including confusion, irritability, extreme agitation progressing to delirium and coma) occur and supportive symptomatic treatment should be initiated. OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) should not be used in combination with MAO inhibitors or serotonin-precursors (such as L-tryptophan, oxitriptan) and should be used with caution in combination with other serotonergic drugs (triptans, certain tricyclic antidepressants, lithium, tramadol, St. John’s Wort) due to the risk of serotonergic syndrome (see DRUG INTERACTIONS).

Head Injury: The respiratory depressant effects of OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen), and the capacity to elevate cerebrospinal fluid pressure, may be greatly increased in the presence of an already elevated intracranial pressure produced by trauma. Also, OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) may produce confusion, miosis, vomiting and other side effects which obscure the clinical course of patients with head injury. In such patients, OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) must be used with extreme caution and only if it is judged essential (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Peri-operative Considerations

OXYCODONE/ACET is not indicated for pre-emptive analgesia (administration pre-operatively for the management of post-operative pain).

In the case of planned chordotomy or other pain-relieving operations, patients should not be treated with OXYCODONE/ACET for at least 24 hours before the operation and OXYCODONE/ACET should not be used in the immediate post-operative period.

Physicians should individualize treatment, moving from parenteral to oral analgesics as appropriate. Thereafter, if OXYCODONE/ACET is to be continued after the patient recovers from the post-operative period, a new dosage should be administered in accordance with the changed need for pain relief. The risk of withdrawal in opioid-tolerant patients should be addressed as clinically indicated.

The administration of analgesics in the peri-operative period should be managed by healthcare providers with adequate training and experience (e.g., by an anesthesiologist).

Oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen and other morphine-like opioids have been shown to decrease bowel motility. Ileus is a common post-operative complication, especially after intra-abdominal surgery with opioid analgesia. Caution should be taken to monitor for decreased

bowel motility in post-operative patients receiving opioids. Standard supportive therapy should be implemented.

OXYCODONE/ACET should not be used in the early post-operative period (12 to 24 hours post-surgery) unless the patient is ambulatory and gastrointestinal function is normal.

Psychomotor Impairment

OXYCODONE/ACET may impair the mental and/or physical abilities needed for certain potentially hazardous activities such as driving a car or operating machinery. Patients should be cautioned accordingly. Patients should also be cautioned about the combined effects of OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) with other CNS depressants, including other opioids, phenothiazine, sedative/hypnotics and alcohol.

Respiratory

Respiratory Depression: Serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression has been reported with the use of opioids, even when used as recommended. Respiratory depression from opioid use, if not immediately recognized and treated, may lead to respiratory arrest and death. Management of respiratory depression may include close observation, supportive measures, and use of opioid antagonists, depending on the patient’s clinical status. OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) should be used with extreme caution in patients with substantially decreased respiratory reserve, pre-existing respiratory depression, hypoxia or hypercapnia (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

While serious, life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression can occur at any time during the use of OXYCODONE/ACET, the risk is greatest during the initiation of therapy or following a dose increase. Patients should be closely monitored for respiratory depression when initiating therapy with OXYCODONE/ACET and following dose increases.

Life-threatening respiratory depression is more likely to occur in the elderly, cachectic, or debilitated patients because they may have altered pharmacokinetics or altered clearance compared to younger, healthier patients.

To reduce the risk of respiratory depression, proper dosing and titration of OXYCODONE/ACET are essential. Over estimating the OXYCODONE/ACET dose when converting patients from another opioid product can result in a fatal overdose with the first dose. In these patients, the use of non-opioid analgesics should be considered, if feasible (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Special Populations, Special Risk Groups, and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

Use in Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Disease: Monitor patients with significant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cor pulmonale, and patients having a substantially decreased respiratory reserve, hypoxia, hypercapnia, or preexisting respiratory depression for respiratory depression, particularly when initiating therapy and titrating with OXYCODONE/ACET, as in these patients, even usual therapeutic doses of OXYCODONE/ACET may decrease respiratory drive to the point of apnea. In these patients, use of alternative non-opioid analgesics should be

considered, if possible. The use of OXYCODONE/ACET is contraindicated in Patients with acute or severe bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive airway, or status asthmaticus (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Sexual Function/Reproduction

Long-term use of opioids may be associated with decreased sex hormone levels and symptoms such as low libido, erectile dysfunction, or infertility (see ADVERSE REACTIONS, Post-Marketing Experience).

Skin

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Serious skin reactions

Rarely, acetaminophen can cause serious skin reactions such as acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), Stevens – Johnson syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which can be fatal. It is important to recognize and react quickly to the initial symptoms of these reactions which may occur without warning but may be manifested by any serious skin reactions. Patients should be informed about the signs of serious skin reactions, and use of the drug should be discontinued at their first appearance.

Special Populations

Special Risk Groups:

OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) should be administered with caution to patients with a history of alcohol and drug abuse and in a reduced dosage to debilitated patients, and in patients with severely impaired pulmonary function, Addison’s disease, hypothyroidism, myxedema, toxic psychosis, prostatic hypertrophy or urethral stricture.

Pregnant Women:

Studies in human have not been conducted. OXYCODONE/ACET crosses the placental barrier and is contraindicated in pregnant women..

Prolonged maternal use of opioids during pregnancy can result in withdrawal signs in the neonate. Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS), unlike opioid withdrawal syndrome in adults, can be life-threatening (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome, ADVERSE REACTIONS, Post-Marketing Experience).

Pregnant women using opioids should not discontinue their medication abruptly as this can cause pregnancy complication such as miscarriage or still-birth. Tapering should be slow and under medical supervision to avoid serious adverse events to the fetus.

Labour, Delivery and Nursing Women: Since opioids can cross the placental barrier and are excreted in breast milk, OXYCODONE/ACET is contraindicated in nursing women and during labour and delivery. Life-threatening respiratory depression can occur in the infant if opioids are administered to the mother. Naloxone, a drug that counters the effects of opiates, should be readily available if OXYCODONE/ACET is used in this population.

Pediatrics (< 18 years of age):

The safety and efficacy of OXYCODONE/ACET have not been studied in the pediatric population. Therefore, use of OXYCODONE/ACET is not recommended in patients under 18 years of age.

The more potent formula, OXYCODONE/ACET, should not be administered to infants or children.

Geriatrics (> 65 years of age):

In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range and titrate slowly, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Special Populations and Conditions, Geriatrics).

Patients with Hepatic Impairment:

OXYCODONE/ACET is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic insufficiency or active liver disease (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Acetaminophen should be used with caution in cases of hepatic insufficiency.

Patients with Renal Impairment:

Acetaminophen should be used with caution in cases of severe renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance ≤30 mL/min).

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Adverse Drug Reaction Overview

Adverse effects of OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) tablets are similar to those of other opioid analgesics, and represent an extension of pharmacological effects of the drug class. The major hazards of opioids include respiratory and central nervous system depression and to a lesser degree, circulatory depression, respiratory arrest, shock and cardiac arrest.

The most frequently observed adverse effects of OXYCODONE/ACET are light-headedness, dizziness, sedation, nausea and vomiting. These effects seem to be more prominent in ambulatory than in non-ambulatory patients, and some of these adverse reactions may be alleviated if the patient lies down.

Other adverse reactions include euphoria, dysphoria, constipation and pruritus.

Sedation:

Sedation is a common side effect of opioid analgesics, especially in opioid naïve individuals. Sedation may also occur partly because patients often recuperate from prolonged fatigue after the relief of persistent pain. Most patients develop tolerance to the sedative effects of opioids within

three to five days and, if the sedation is not severe, will not require any treatment except reassurance. If excessive sedation persists beyond a few days, the dose of the opioid should be reduced and alternate causes investigated. Some of these are: concurrent CNS depressant medication, hepatic or renal dysfunction, brain metastases, hypercalcemia and respiratory failure. If it is necessary to reduce the dose, it can be carefully increased again after three or four days if it is obvious that the pain is not being well controlled. Dizziness and unsteadiness may be caused by postural hypotension, particularly in elderly or debilitated patients, and may be alleviated if the patient lies down.

Nausea and Vomiting:

Nausea is a common side effect on initiation of therapy with opioid analgesics and is thought to occur by activation of the chemoreceptor trigger zone, stimulation of the vestibular apparatus and through delayed gastric emptying. The prevalence of nausea declines following continued treatment with opioid analgesics. When instituting therapy with an opioid for chronic pain, the routine prescription of an antiemetic should be considered. In the cancer patient, investigation of nausea should include such causes as constipation, bowel obstruction, uremia, hypercalcemia, hepatomegaly, tumor invasion of celiac plexus and concurrent use of drugs with emetogenic properties. Persistent nausea which does not respond to dosage reduction may be caused by opioid-induced gastric stasis and may be accompanied by other symptoms including anorexia, early satiety, vomiting and abdominal fullness. These symptoms respond to chronic treatment with gastrointestinal prokinetic agents.

Constipation:

Practically all patients become constipated while taking opioids on a persistent basis. In some patients, particularly the elderly or bedridden, fecal impaction may result. It is essential to caution the patients in this regard and to institute an appropriate regimen of bowel management at the start of prolonged opioid therapy. Stimulant laxatives, stool softeners, and other appropriate measures should be used as required. As fecal impaction may present as overflow diarrhea, the presence of constipation should be excluded in patients on opioid therapy prior to initiating treatment for diarrhea.

Post-Marketing Experience

Androgen deficiency: Chronic use of opioids may influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, leading to androgen deficiency that may manifest as low libido, impotence, erectile dysfunction, amenorrhea, or infertility. The causal role of opioids in the clinical syndrome of hypogonadism is unknown because the various medical, physical, lifestyle, and psychological stressors that may influence gonadal hormone levels have not been adequately controlled for in studies conducted to date. Patients presenting with symptoms of androgen deficiency should undergo laboratory evaluation.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Interaction with Benzodiazepines and Other Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants:

Due to additive pharmacologic effect, the concomitant use of benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants (e.g. other opioids, sedatives/hypnotics, antidepressants, anxiolytics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics, phenothiazines, neuroleptics, antihistamines, antiemetics, and alcohol) and beta-blockers, increases the risk of respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Follow patients closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Neurologic, Interactions with Central Nervous System Depressants (including benzodiazepines and alcohol) and Psychomotor Impairment). OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) should not be consumed with alcohol as it may increase the chance of experiencing dangerous side effects.

Drug-Drug Interactions

Table 1 – Established or Potential Drug-Drug Interactions

Legend: C = Case Study; CT = Clinical Trial; T = Theoretical

Use with Other Acetaminophen-Containing Products

Due to the potential for acetaminophen hepatotoxicity at doses higher than the maximum daily dose (4000 mg of acetaminophen per day for adults), OXYCODONE/ACET should not be used concomitantly with other acetaminophen-containing products (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS).

Drug-Laboratory Interactions

Acetaminophen may produce false-positive test results for urinary 5-hydroxyindolacetic acid.

Drug-Lifestyle Interactions

The concomitant use of alcohol should be avoided (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, General).

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

For acute pain, it is recommended that OXYCODONE/ACET be used for a maximum of 7 days at the lowest dose that provides adequate pain relief.

All doses of opioids carry an inherent risk of fatal or non-fatal adverse events. This risk is increased with higher doses. If OXYCODONE/ACET is used for more than 7 days for the management of chronic non-cancer, non-palliative pain, it is recommended that the daily dose not exceed 12 tablets, which is 60 mg oxycodone (90 morphine milligram equivalent). Physicians and patients should also take into account any other sources of acetaminophen to ensure the maximum 4000 mg daily dose is not exceeded. Each patient should be assessed for their risk prior to prescribing OXYCODONE/ACET as the likelihood of experiencing serious adverse events can depend upon the type of opioid, duration of treatment, level of pain as well as the patient’s own level of tolerance. In addition, the level of pain should be assessed routinely to confirm the most appropriate dose and the need for further use of OXYCODONE/ACET (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION - Adjustment or reduction of Dosage).

OXYCODONE/ACET should only be used in patients for whom alternative treatment options are ineffective or not tolerated (e.g. non-opioid analgesics).

OXYCODONE/ACET must be swallowed whole. Cutting, breaking, crushing, chewing, or dissolving OXYCODONE/ACET can lead to dangerous adverse events including death (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS).

Recommended Dose and Dosage Adjustment

Adults:

Dosage should be adjusted according to the severity of the pain and the patient's response. It may occasionally be necessary to exceed the usual dosage recommended below in cases of more severe pain or in those patients who have become tolerant to the analgesic effect of opioids. The usual adult dose is one tablet every six hours as needed for pain. Provided there is no concomitant use of other products with acetaminophen, the maximum daily dose of OXYCODONE/ACET is 12 tablets, which is 60 mg oxycodone and 3900 mg acetaminophen (see Drug Interactions, Use with Other Acetaminophen-Containing Products).

OXYCODONE/ACET should be used with caution within 12 hours pre-operatively and within the first 12-24 hours post-operatively (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Peri-operative Considerations).

OXYCODONE/ACET is not indicated for rectal administration.

Patients Not Receiving Opioids at the Time of Initiation of Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Acetaminophen Treatment: The usual initial adult dose of OXYCODONE/ACET for patients

who have not previously received opioid analgesics is one tablet every six hours as needed for pain.

Patients Currently Receiving Opioids: For patients who are receiving an alternate opioid, the "oral oxycodone equivalent" of the analgesic presently being used, should be determined. Having determined the total daily dosage of the present analgesic, TABLE 2 can be used to calculate the approximate daily oral oxycodone dosage that should provide equivalent analgesia. It is usually appropriate to treat a patient with only one opioid at a time. Further dose reductions should be considered due to incomplete cross-tolerance between opioids.

Table 2: Opioid Conversion Table

Opioids

To convert to oral morphine

equivalent

To convert from oral morphine multiply by

90 MED equivalent dose

Morphine 1 1 90 mg/d

Codeine 0.15 6.67 600 mg/d

Hydromorphone 5 0.2 18 mg/d

Oxycodone 1.5 0.667 60 mg/d

Tapentadol 0.3-0.4 2.5-3.33 300 mg/d

Tramadol 0.1-0.2 6 ***

Methadone Morphine dose equivalence is not reliably established *** The maximum recommended daily dose of tramadol is 300 mg - 400 mg depending on the formulation.

Busse J. The 2017 Canadian guideline for opioids for chronic non-cancer pain. Hamilton (ON): McMaster University; 2017

Patients with Hepatic Impairment:

OXYCODONE/ACET is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic insufficiency or active liver disease (see CONTRAINDICATIONS).

Acetaminophen should be used with caution in cases of hepatic insufficiency (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Hepatic Effects).

Patients with Renal Impairment:

OXYCODONE/ACET should be given with caution to patients with renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance ≤30 mL/min) (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS).

Geriatrics:

Respiratory depression has occurred in the elderly following administration of large initial doses of opioids to patients who were not opioid-tolerant or when opioids were co-administered with other agents that can depress respiration. OXYCODONE/ACET should be initiated at a low dose

and slowly titrated to effect (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).

Dose Titration:

Dose titration is the key to success with opioid analgesic therapy. Proper optimization of doses scaled to the relief of the individual's pain should aim at administration of the lowest dose which will achieve the overall treatment goal of satisfactory pain relief with acceptable side effects.

Dosage adjustments should be based on the patient's clinical response.

Adjustment or Reduction of Dosage:

Physical dependence with or without psychological dependence tends to occur with chronic administration of opioids, including OXYCODONE/ACET. Withdrawal (abstinence) symptoms may occur following abrupt discontinuation of therapy. These symptoms may include body aches, diarrhea, gooseflesh, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness or restlessness, runny nose, sneezing, tremors or shivering, stomach cramps, tachycardia, trouble with sleeping, unusual increase in sweating, palpitations, unexplained fever, weakness and yawning.

Following successful relief of moderate to severe pain, periodic attempts to reduce the opioid dose should be made. Smaller doses or complete discontinuation may become feasible due to a change in the patient’s condition or mental state. Patients on prolonged therapy should be withdrawn gradually from the drug if it is no longer required for pain control. In patients who are appropriately treated with opioid analgesics and who undergo gradual withdrawal for the drug, these symptoms are usually mild (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS). Tapering should be individualised and carried out under medical supervision.

Patient should be informed that reducing and/or discontinuing opioids decreases their tolerance to these drugs. If treatment needs to be re-initiated, the patient must start at the lowest dose and titrate up to avoid overdose.

Opioid analgesics may only be partially effective in relieving dysesthetic pain, postherpetic neuralgia, stabbing pains, activity-related pain and some forms of headache. That is not to say that patients with advanced cancer suffering from some of these forms of pain should not be given an adequate trial of opioid analgesics, but it may be necessary to refer such patients at an early time to other forms of pain therapy.

Disposal

OXYCODONE/ACET should be kept in a safe place, out of the sight and reach of children before, during and after use. OXYCODONE/ACET should not be used in front of children, since they may copy these actions.

OXYCODONE/ACET should never be disposed of in household trash. Disposal via a pharmacy take back program is recommended. Unused or expired OXYCODONE/ACET should be properly disposed of as soon as it is no longer needed to prevent accidental exposure to others, including children or pets. If temporary storage is required before disposal, a sealed child-proof

container, such as a biohazard waste container or a lockable medication box could be obtained from a pharmacy.

Missed Dose

If the patient forgets to take one or more doses, they should take their next dose at the next scheduled time and in the normal amount.

OVERDOSAGE

For management of suspected drug overdose, contact your regional Poison Control Centre immediately.

Symptoms:

OXYCODONE/ACET (oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen) is a combination product. The clinical presentation of overdose may include the signs and symptoms of oxycodone toxicity, acetaminophen toxicity or both.

Oxycodone

Serious overdose with OXYCODONE/ACET is characterized by respiratory depression (a decrease in respiratory rate and/or tidal volume, Cheyne-Stokes respiration, cyanosis), extreme somnolence progressing to stupor or coma, skeletal muscle flaccidity, cold and clammy skin, and sometimes bradycardia and hypotension. In severe overdose, apnea, circulatory collapse, cardiac arrest and death may occur.

Acetaminophen

The ingestion of very large amounts of OXYCODONE/ACET may, in addition, result in acute acetaminophen intoxication, characterized by anorexia, nausea, vomiting and sweating within two or three hours of ingestion, and possibly cyanosis with methemoglobinemia. Within 48 hours, liver function tests rise abnormally and the liver becomes enlarged and tender. Within three to five days, jaundice, coagulation defects, myocardiopathy, encephalopathy, and renal failure occur, followed by death due to hepatic necrosis.

Significant overdoses of acetaminophen may result in potentially fatal hepatotoxicity. The physician should be mindful that there is no early presentation that is pathognomonic for the overdose. A high degree of clinical suspicion must always be maintained.

Due to the wide availability of acetaminophen, it is commonly involved in single and mixed drug overdose situations and the practitioner should have a low threshold for screening for its presence in a patient’s serum. Acute toxicity after single dose overdoses of acetaminophen can be anticipated when the overdose exceeds 150 mg/kg. Chronic alcohol abusers, cachectic individuals, and persons taking pharmacologic inducers of the hepatic P450 microsomal enzyme system may be at risk with lower exposures. Chronic intoxication has been reported, rarely, in persons consuming in excess of 150 mg/kg of acetaminophen daily for several days. Hepatotoxicity occurs when plasma levels of 300 mcg are observed within four hours of ingestion.

Treatment:

Oxycodone

Primary attention should be given to the re-establishment of adequate respiratory exchange through provision of a patent airway and the institution of assisted or controlled ventilation. The opioid antagonist naloxone is a specific antidote against respiratory depression which may result from overdosage or unusual sensitivity to opioids, including oxycodone. Therefore, an appropriate dose of this antagonist should be administered, preferably by the intravenous route, simultaneously with efforts at respiratory resuscitation. Since the duration of action of oxycodone may exceed that of the antagonist, the patient should be kept under continued surveillance and repeat doses of the antagonist should be administered as needed to maintain adequate respiration. The instructions contained in the package insert provided by the manufacturer should be carefully observed.

An antagonist should not be administered in the absence of clinically significant respiratory or cardiovascular depression.

Oxygen, intravenous fluids, vasopressors and other supportive measures should be employed as indicated.

Acetaminophen:

Specific Antidote: NAC (N-acetylcysteine) administered by either the intravenous or the oral route is known to be highly effective antidote for acetaminophen poisoning. It is most effective when administered within 8 hours of a significant overdose but reports have indicated benefits to treatment initiated even after 16 hours. It is imperative to administer the antidote as early as possible in the time course of acute intoxication to reap the full benefits of the antidote’s protective effects. If hemodialysis is carried out within ten hours of ingestion, it may be of some value.

General Management: When the possibility of acetaminophen overdose exists, treatment should begin immediately and include appropriate decontamination of the GI tract (such as emesis or lavage), proper supportive care, careful assessment of appropriately timed serum acetaminophen estimations evaluated against the Matthew-Rumack nomogram, timely administration of NAC as required and appropriate follow-up care. Physicians unfamiliar with the current management of acetaminophen overdose should consult with a poison control centre immediately. Delays in initiation of appropriate therapy may jeopardize the patient’s chances of full recovery.

ACTIONS AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

Mechanism of Action

The principal ingredient, oxycodone, is a semisynthetic opioid analgesic with multiple actions qualitatively similar to those of morphine; the most prominent of these involve the central nervous system and organs composed of smooth muscle. The principal actions of therapeutic value of the oxycodone are analgesia and sedation.

OXYCODONE/ACET also contains the non-opioid antipyretic analgesic, acetaminophen; the latter exerts its effects by a mechanism similar to that of the salicylates but, unlike the salicylates, does not have anti-inflammatory or uricosuric properties.

Pharmacodynamics

Central Nervous System:

Oxycodone produces respiratory depression by direct action on brain stem respiratory centres. The respiratory depression involves both a reduction in the responsiveness of the brain stem centres to increases in CO₂ tension and to electrical stimulation.

Oxycodone depresses the cough reflex by direct effect on the cough centre in the medulla. Antitussive effects may occur with doses lower than those usually required for analgesia.

Oxycodone causes miosis, even in total darkness. Pinpoint pupils are a sign of opioid overdose but are not pathognomonic (e.g., pontine lesions of hemorrhagic or ischemic origin may produce similar findings). Marked mydriasis rather than miosis may be seen with hypoxia in the setting of oxycodone overdose.

Gastrointestinal Tract and Other Smooth Muscle:

Oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen tablets cause a reduction in motility associated with an increase in smooth muscle tone in the antrum of the stomach and duodenum. Digestion of food in the small intestine is delayed and propulsive contractions are decreased. Propulsive peristaltic waves in the colon are decreased, while tone may be increased to the point of spasm resulting in constipation. Other opioid-induced effects may include a reduction in gastric, biliary and poancreatic secretions, spasm of the sphincter of Oddi, and transient elevations in serum amylase.

Cardiovascular System:

Oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen tablets may produce release of histamine with or without associated peripheral vasodilation. Manifestations of histamine release and/or peripheral vasodilatation may include pruritus, flushing, red eyes, hyperhidrosis and/or orthostatic hypotension.

Endocrine System:

Opioids may influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal or -gonadal axes. Some changes that can be seen include an increase in serum prolactin, and decreases in plasma cortisol and testosterone. Clinical signs and symptoms may be manifest from these hormonal changes.

Immune System:

In vitro and animal studies indicate that opioids have a variety of effects on immune functions, depending on the context in which they are used. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown.

Pharmacokinetics

Oxycodone is similar to codeine and methadone in that it retains at least one half of its analgesic activity when administered orally. It has been suggested that less rapid biotransformation in the

liver may be due to the protective effect of a methoxy group in the 3-position, the site of glucuronide conjugation in morphine.

Acetaminophen is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, peak plasma levels being obtained within ten minutes to one hour.

Special Populations and Conditions

Pediatrics: Individuals under 18 years of age should not take OXYCODONE/ACET tablets.

Geriatrics: See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.

Hepatic Impairment: See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.

Renal Impairment: See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS.

STORAGE AND STABILITY

Store at room temperature (15 to 30°C).

Patients should be instructed to store OXYCODONE/ACET, as any medication, safely out of the sight and reach of children.

SPECIAL HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS

Not applicable.

DOSAGE FORMS, COMPOSITION AND PACKAGING

Each white, scored tablet contains: oxycodone hydrochloride 5 mg and acetaminophen 325 mg.

Non-medicinal ingredients in alphabetical order: colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, pregelatinized starch, sodium starch glycolate and stearic acid. Available in bottles of 100 and 500 tablets.

PART II: SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION

PHARMACEUTICAL INFORMATION

Drug Substance

Proper name: Oxycodone hydrochloride

Chemical name: Oxycodone, 14-hydroxydihydrocodeinone

Moledular formula C₁₈H₂₁NO₄ HCl, 315.36 g/mol and molecular mass:

Structural Formula:

Physiochemical properties: The oxycodone component is a white odorless crystalline powder which is derived from the opium alkaloid, thebaine.

Drug Substance

Proper name: Acetaminophen

Chemical name: Paracetamol, APAP, N-acetyl p-aminobenzoic acid,

4’-hydroxyacetanilide

Moledular formula C₈H₉NO₂, 151.16 g/mol and molecular mass:

Structural Formula:

Physiochemical properties: Acetaminophen is a major active metabolite of phenacetin.

REFERENCE

1. 1. ^NPERCOCET Product Monograph by Bristol-Myers Squibb Canada, Control #194809, dated October 13, 2016.