Opana ER 15mg

Description

What is Opana ER 15mg?

Opana ER 15mg is an extended-release opioid pain reliever containing oxymorphone hydrochloride. It is prescribed for the management of moderate to severe chronic pain requiring continuous, long-term opioid therapy when other treatments are insufficient.

This medication provides up to 12 hours of pain relief and is typically used for patients who are opioid-tolerant. It alters the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain, helping patients manage chronic discomfort.
Learn more about this medication at MedlinePlus: Oxymorphone.

How to Use Opana ER 15mg

Opana ER 15mg tablets must be taken exactly as directed by a healthcare provider. The medication should be taken every 12 hours, swallowed whole with water on an empty stomach — either one hour before or two hours after meals.

Do not crush, chew, break, or dissolve the tablet, as doing so can cause a rapid release of oxymorphone and may result in overdose or death.
Always follow your doctor’s dosage instructions carefully.

For clinical details, refer to the FDA Opana ER Label Information.

What is Opana ER 15mg Used For?

Opana ER 15mg is used to treat:

• Chronic pain conditions requiring 24-hour opioid management
• Cancer-related pain
• Severe post-surgical pain
• Neuropathic and musculoskeletal pain

This medication is prescribed when other non-opioid or immediate-release pain medicines fail to provide adequate relief.
You can learn more about chronic pain management at Johns Hopkins Medicine: Chronic Pain.

Side Effects of Opana ER 15mg

Like other opioids, Opana ER 15mg may cause mild to serious side effects.

Common side effects include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Constipation
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Sweating

Serious side effects include:

• Slowed or shallow breathing
• Confusion or extreme drowsiness
• Fainting
• Irregular heartbeat
• Seizures

If you experience difficulty breathing or signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash or swelling), seek emergency medical help immediately.
For a full side effect list, visit Drugs.com: Oxymorphone Side Effects.

Warnings and Precautions

• Do not consume alcohol while taking this medication — it can lead to fatal respiratory depression.
• Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the drug affects you.
• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have liver disease.
• Combining Opana ER with benzodiazepines, sedatives, or antidepressants may increase risk of overdose.

Review important opioid safety tips at CDC: Prescription Opioids Facts.

How Long Does Opana ER 15mg Stay in Your System?

The half-life of oxymorphone in Opana ER 15mg is approximately 9 to 11 hours, but this can vary based on a person’s age, metabolism, dosage, and overall health. Traces of the medication can remain in urine for up to 3–4 days after the last dose.

For a detailed explanation of opioid metabolism, visit PubChem: Oxymorphone.

Product Highlights

• Brand Name: Opana ER
• Strength: 15mg
• Active Ingredient: Oxymorphone Hydrochloride
• Form: Extended-Release Oral Tablet
• Intended Use: Management of moderate to severe chronic pain
• Duration: Up to 12 hours per dose
• Controlled Substance: Schedule II
• Prescription Required: Yes