In most adults, yes, provided both medicines have been prescribed or recommended appropriately. There is no general requirement to separate paracetamol and Oxynorm by a particular number of hours.
Using them together can provide additional pain relief because they work differently. Oxynorm is generally reserved for moderate to severe pain, whereas paracetamol is commonly used for mild-to-moderate pain and can form part of a wider pain-management plan.
How Much Paracetamol Can You Take?
For typical adults taking 500 mg paracetamol tablets, the usual dose is 500 mg to 1,000 mg at a time, with at least 4 hours between doses. NHS guidance says adults should not normally exceed 4,000 mg (4 g) in 24 hours, equivalent to eight 500 mg tablets.
However, your appropriate dose may be lower if you have certain medical conditions, weigh less than 50 kg, have liver problems, regularly drink substantial amounts of alcohol, or have been given specific instructions by your doctor.
Always check other medicines for hidden paracetamol. Products such as some cold-and-flu remedies and combination painkillers may already contain paracetamol, increasing the risk of accidental overdose.
Important Safety Advice With Oxynorm
Oxynorm (oxycodone) can cause sleepiness, dizziness, nausea, confusion and constipation. More importantly, opioids can cause dangerous breathing problems if taken incorrectly or in excessive amounts.
Avoid alcohol while taking Oxynorm because it can increase drowsiness and the risk of serious side effects. You should also be particularly cautious with other medicines that cause sedation, including certain sleeping medicines, antihistamines, antidepressants, gabapentin or pregabalin.
If you become extremely sleepy, difficult to wake, confused, or have slow, shallow or difficult breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Bottom Line
Paracetamol and Oxynorm can usually be taken together, and this combination is commonly used for pain relief. Take Oxynorm strictly according to your prescription and keep within the recommended paracetamol dose. If you’re unsure about your specific doses, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking them
