Description

Opana 40mg (G74)

Opana 40mg (G74) is an extended-release version of oxymorphone hydrochloride, a potent semi-synthetic opioid used to treat severe, chronic pain in people who require 24-hour analgesia. The “G74” mark identifies the tablet as a 40mg dose produced by a certain pharmaceutical company. Unlike immediate-release oxymorphone (Opana IR), this formulation gives pain relief for 12 hours, requiring less frequent doses.

Key Features:

Active ingredient: Oxymorphone HCl (40mg per pill).

Mechanism: Binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, causing changes in pain perception.

Round, white extended-release tablet (must be eaten whole; crushing or chewing can result in a lethal overdose).

Indications:
Chronic pain includes cancer, severe arthritis, and neuropathic pain.

Reserved for opioid-tolerant patients (those who have been taking opioids for a long time).

Due to the risk of overdose, this medication should not be used for post-surgical pain.

Dosage and Administration:
Taken every 12 hours; dosage is modified according to pain severity and tolerance.

To prevent respiratory depression, patients who have never used opioids should start with smaller dosages (e.g., 5mg).

Do not crush, snort, or inject, since this can result in fast absorption and death.

Common Side effects are:

Constipation, nausea, and disorientation..

Dry mouth, perspiration, and itching.

Serious (need emergency help):

Respiratory depression (slow, shallow breathing).

Serious hypotension, disorientation, or coma.

Addiction, dependence, or withdrawal if abruptly discontinued.

Precautions and Warnings:
High abuse potential (Schedule II restricted substance in the United States).

Contraindicated in patients with

Severe asthma or intestinal blockage.

Use of alcohol or CNS depressants raises the risk of sedation.

Pregnancy and Nursing: Avoid—can cause neonatal withdrawal.

Drug interactions:
Benzodiazepines, alcohol, and sedatives  associates with an increase risk of fatal respiratory depression.

MAOIs and SSRIs: Risk of serotonin syndrome.

Muscle relaxants and antipsychotics: Increased CNS depression.