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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Excessive Sleepiness While On Oxycontin?

My husband has been fighting cancer since 2013. Prostrate then colon. He is on the 25 pain patch and OxyContin. He has been asleep almost all day and has not ate. The doctor told the hospice nurse if this doesn t help his pain we will go to the stronger patch. He has a bad heart and not sure what I should tell his kids. Can he live long without eating and on pain melds very long?
Fri, 31 Aug 2018
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,

Pain relief is a core step in the management of many cancers. This is very necessary, especially if the disease is not curable or in the end stage.

Pain medicine is very appropriate and he should be pain-free. However, diet is important too. Excessive sleeping generally goes away in some time. At the moment, try to give him food whenever he is awake or he wants it. Food is necessary. If he still can't take it then talk to your doctor.

Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
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What Causes Excessive Sleepiness While On Oxycontin?

Hi, Pain relief is a core step in the management of many cancers. This is very necessary, especially if the disease is not curable or in the end stage. Pain medicine is very appropriate and he should be pain-free. However, diet is important too. Excessive sleeping generally goes away in some time. At the moment, try to give him food whenever he is awake or he wants it. Food is necessary. If he still can t take it then talk to your doctor. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.