Post Operative Medication Information
Dr. Anand Vora, M.D
Orthopaedic Surgeon Specializing in Disorders of the Foot and Ankle
Illinois Bone and Joint Institute
(847) 247-4000
www.ibji-drvora.com
The following is a list of medications you MAY have received following surgery. If you have any
allergies to these or other medications do NOT take them and notify Dr. Vora immediately.
OxyContin (generic name- oxycodone controlled-release): This is an opioid for moderate-tosevere pain intended for use during the first days following surgery. You may take 1-2 tablets
every 12 hours. You should start to feel pain relief in 1 hour and it will continue to be slowly
released giving you pain relief usually lasting 12 hours. DO NOT break, crush, or chew the
medication, as any of these will destroy the controlled-released delivery. This drug may impair
mental and or physical abilities required for performance of potentially hazardous tasks such as
driving a car. Other potential side effects are present and as noted in the information
accompanying your prescription. This medication does not contain Tylenol (acetaminophen) or
Motrin (ibuprofen), so you can take either of these medications as properly directed in addition to
the OxyContin.
Norco (generic name- hydrocodone/acetaminophen): This is another opioid pain medication
but in a short-acting formulation. Sometimes, even when you are taking your scheduled doses of
OxyContin every 12 hours, you may become uncomfortable. This is what is known as
“breakthrough” pain. If this occurs, you can take 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours as needed for pain.
You should expect to feel pain relief within 60 minutes. This may be required on routinely for the
first few days after surgery. As the postoperative pain decreases, Norco should be weaned
completely for OxyContin. The side effects are similar to those mentioned for OxyContin.
Senekot-S (generic name- senna & colace): Since constipation is a normal side effect of
opioids, we recommend that you take a laxative and stool softener (such as Senokot-S or any
other such medication) while using these medications. These are generally over the counter
medications and can be obtained at most pharmacies and should be taken as directed.
Vistaril (generic name- hydrooxyzine): This medication is used to counteract some of the
potential side effects of the pain medications. It works to decrease nausea, vomiting, and
itchiness. You may take 1-2 tablets every 4-6 hours with your pain medication. Additionally, this
medication potentiates the side effects of the pain medications and can be used as an adjunct for
pain relief. Side effects include dry mouth and sedation.
Duricef (generic name- cefadroxil): This is an antibiotic to help prevent infection. You should
take these pills as directed until completion. If you are allergic to cephalosporin antibiotics you
will receive an alternative antibiotic such as clindamycin.