Opana ER (Oxymorphone HCL)? Uses, Dosage, and Key Safety Information

If you’re researching extended-release pain management solutions, you’ve likely come across Opana ER (Oxymorphone HCL). This powerful opioid analgesic has been used to manage moderate to severe chronic pain in patients requiring continuous, around-the-clock treatment.

In this article, we’ll break down what Opana ER is, how it works, key medical uses, and important safety guidelines. Whether you’re a healthcare provider or researching pain management options, here’s what you need to know.

What Is Opana ER?

Opana ER, the brand name for Oxymorphone Hydrochloride, is an extended-release opioid pain reliever. It is designed for long-term, 12-hour relief from severe pain that cannot be controlled with other medications.

Key Facts:

• Generic name: Oxymorphone Hydrochloride

• Brand name: Opana ER

• Form: Extended-release oral tablet

• Schedule: Schedule II controlled substance

• Strengths: Commonly available in 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, and 40mg

How Opana ER Works

Oxymorphone is a semisynthetic opioid, structurally related to morphine but significantly more potent. Opana ER binds to the mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, altering the perception of and response to pain.

The ER (extended-release) formulation ensures that the drug is slowly released into the body over 12 hours, making it suitable for patients who require constant pain control.

Medical Uses of Opana ER

Opana ER is used primarily for:

• Chronic severe pain (e.g., cancer, post-surgical recovery, major injuries)

• Palliative care where long-term opioid treatment is necessary

⚠️ Opana ER is not for use on an as-needed basis for pain or in patients new to opioid therapy.

Dosage & Administration

Only a licensed healthcare provider should determine the dosage of Opana ER. It is typically prescribed twice daily and must be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating.

Important guidelines:

• Do not crush, chew, or dissolve tablets

• Misuse can lead to overdose and death

• Taper dosage gradually when discontinuing

Opana ER Safety & Regulatory Update

Due to concerns about misuse and abuse, Opana ER was voluntarily withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2017 at the request of the FDA. However, Oxymorphone HCL is still available in other formulations and markets under different brand names.

For more information

Alternatives to Opana ER

If you’re seeking long-term opioid pain relief and cannot access Opana ER, speak with your doctor about alternative options, such as:

• OxyContin (Oxycodone ER)

• Morphine Sulfate ER

• Hydromorphone ER (Exalgo)

Final Thoughts

Opana ER (Oxymorphone HCL) was a powerful tool in pain management but is no longer available in some markets due to public health concerns. Still, Oxymorphone remains a clinically significant opioid used under strict medical supervision.

If you are a healthcare provider considering alternatives or are managing chronic pain treatment, always consult up-to-date prescribing guidelines and DEA-compliant sources.