My dad have CHF and stage 3 CKD. He's on hospice. He's been taking hydrocondone(lortab) for pain and relaxation. So far he's okay with the medication except being itchy. The hospice doctor plans on switching him to oxycodone and also giving him itch medicine. Should I do the switch or just stick with the lortab. Isn't the oxycodone too strong for my dad? Will it hurt him?
Have you asked your question to the hospice MD or the hospice nurse? I'd like to think either one would answer your questions - is it too strong, will it hurt him, should I switch?
Personally, I have a poor reaction to codeine based products (I don't routinely take anything, but I've had dental extraction/implant work this year) and I've had better results from oxycodone. Itching isn't my issue, it's severe nausea. Perhaps the MD believes that your father may not react to the oxycodone.
Not to pester you with questions, but is the prescription provided "as needed"? My MIL is on hospice, with Ativan and hydrocodone prescribed as needed. And yes, they do ask every week if she needs a refill, but I don't feel like they are pushing it. Would that relieve any anxiety on you if you felt it wasn't pill pushing? Or is hospice saying he needs this on a regular schedule?
Thank you for sharing details - your care and concern is evident!