Taking Phentermine With Oxycodone

In our latest question and answer, our pharmacist discusses whether or not there is a drug interaction between phentermine and oxycodone.

Nov 28, 2017

Faye asked

I take a 37.5 phentermine capsule at 7 or 7:30 am. I was told I could take oxycodone but the internet has warnings about it. If I take it at 9 or 10 pm, is that OK?

Answer

There is no reported drug interaction between phentermine and oxycodone. Any drug interaction you may find listed online is likely referring to the opposing effects of the drugs, not an actual drug-drug interaction.

Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic used for the treatment of moderate to severe pain. Opioid medications are well known for causing drowsiness, sedation and dizziness.

Phentermine is a amphetamine-like medication used for the treatment of obesity. While not classified as an amphetamine drug, it works in a similar way and has amphetamine like effects. In addition to helping weight loss, it increases focus and overall alertness.

As oxycodone causes sedation and phentermine often has the opposite effect, sometimes 'drug interactions checkers' will list an interaction between the two... due to these opposing effects. The only real concern here is that you may not known how the combination will affect you specifically. The combination could cause an overall sedative effect or it may not. 

If you have concerns about the combination and how it may potentially affect you, speak with your doctor but know there is no 'drug-drug' interaction between these two.

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