Skip to main content

Who can and cannot take oxycodone - Brand names: Oxycontin, Oxypro, Longtec, Shortec

Who can take oxycodone

Most adults and children aged 1 month and older can take oxycodone.

Babies, young children and older people are more likely to get side effects.

Who may not be able to take oxycodone

Oxycodone is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor or a pharmacist before taking it if you:

  • have ever had an allergic reaction to oxycodone or any other medicine
  • have lung problems, asthma or breathing difficulties
  • have ever had an addiction to alcohol
  • have a head injury or condition which causes seizures or fits
  • have an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism)
  • have kidney or liver problems
  • have an enlarged prostate
  • have low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • have a mental health condition that is affected by certain medicines
  • have had recent stomach surgery or bowel problems
  • are trying to get pregnant, are already pregnant or if you're breastfeeding

Page last reviewed: 17 November 2022
Next review due: 17 November 2025