Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking oxycodone - Brand names: Oxycontin, Oxypro, Longtec, Shortec

Oxycodone and pregnancy

Oxycodone is occasionally taken during pregnancy for pain that is severe or difficult to treat.

If you take oxycodone at the end of pregnancy, your baby might have withdrawal symptoms after they're born. If this happens, your baby may need more time in hospital for observation.

It's important to treat pain in pregnancy. If you have severe pain, oxycodone might sometimes be the best option. Your doctor can help you decide what's right for you and your baby.

Oxycodone and breastfeeding

Oxycodone is not usually recommended if you're breastfeeding, but it may be used occasionally for pain that is severe or difficult to treat. Your doctor can help you decide what's right for you and your baby.

Although only small amounts of oxycodone pass into breast milk, it may still cause side effects in your baby such as breathing problems, being very sleepy, or difficulty feeding. Because of this potential risk, your doctor may recommend a different painkiller while you're breastfeeding.

If you do take oxycodone while breastfeeding, it's best to take it in low doses and only for a short time. This reduces the risk of your baby getting side effects.

Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, health visitor or midwife as soon as possible if you have any concerns about your baby, including if you notice that your baby:

• is not feeding as well as usual
• has constipation
• seems unusually pale

However, these effects are very rare.

If you need to go to A&E, take the oxycodone packet or leaflet inside it, plus any remaining medicine, with you.

Oxycodone and fertility

There's no evidence to suggest that taking oxycodone will reduce fertility in women or men.

However, speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're trying to get pregnant. They may want to review your treatment.

Find out more about how oxycodone can affect you and your baby on the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS) website.