Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is Xtampza ER. It is an opioid medicine. It treats severe pain that requires control around-the-clock.

Xtampza ER is designed to be taken every 12 hours, at the same time every day, with food. Take it exactly as YOUR doctor tells YOU to. You should either swallow the capsule whole, or sprinkle the contents of it onto a spoonful of soft food.

Some common side effects can occur. You could feel sleepy. You should wait until you know how it affects you before doing activities that require you to be alert, like driving. You could feel dizzy. To reduce this, you should stand up slowly. Some patients get a headache, nausea, itching or stomach pain. This medicine can also cause constipation, so ask your doctor how to prevent this. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects can occur. Get emergency help if you have ANY unusual changes to your body. Examples include confusion, trouble breathing, a fast heartbeat, extreme sleepiness, or swelling in your face or mouth.

Xtampza ER can put you at risk for opioid addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose and death. To help keep this medicine safe for you, you should work with your doctor to use the lowest dose for the shortest time possible. After you stop taking it you should dispose of it properly. Ask your pharmacist about proper disposal options in your area or go to the FDA.gov website for more information.

Also, always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines, and do not drink alcohol.

For best results with Xtampza ER, read the Medication Guide for full information.