Таргин

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Таргин

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Treatment option: Pain, Constipation

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Таргин

Property Description
Active Ingredients Oxycodone Hydrochloride, Naloxone Hydrochloride
Form Prolonged-release tablets (modified-release)
Pharmacological Class Opioid analgesic (Agonist-Antagonist Combination)
Common Use Management of chronic, persistent pain in adult patients
Origin Semi-synthetic (Oxycodone) and Synthetic (Naloxone)

Defining the Drug: What Type of Medicine is Таргин?

Таргин (or Targiniq) is a prescription-only medication classified as an opioid analgesic within the high-level pharmacological group of controlled substances. It is defined as a fixed-dose combination product, strategically pairing two essential active substances: Oxycodone Hydrochloride and Naloxone Hydrochloride. This formulation is clinically recognized for its use in adult patients whose pain severity requires treatment with a strong opioid. The drug is distinctive from pure, single-agent opioids by its composition, designed to provide strong central pain relief while mitigating specific peripheral side effects commonly associated with opioid therapy.


Composition and Unique Formulation (Oxycodone and Naloxone)

The drug's composition is a blend of two substances prepared exclusively as a prolonged-release tablet for oral administration. Oxycodone, a semi-synthetic opioid derivative, serves as the primary pain-relieving agent. Conversely, Naloxone, a synthetic opioid antagonist, is included to specifically block opioid action within the gut. The fixed-dose combination aims to improve the gastrointestinal tolerability of oxycodone therapy. This strategic pairing addresses the objective of counteracting opioid-induced bowel dysfunction.


General Purpose: Why is This Combination Used?

The general therapeutic purpose of Таргин is the effective and continuous management of persistent, chronic pain that requires around-the-clock analgesic treatment. The modified-release profile, a key differentiating factor, aims to maintain consistent analgesic coverage throughout a twenty-four-hour period. The combination directly addresses the objective of mitigating specific gastrointestinal issues, allowing patients requiring sustained treatment to maintain better adherence and quality of life.

Regulatory References

  1. Oxycodone: MedlinePlus Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Таргин?

The use of Targin is associated with risks common to the opioid class, most notably the potential for addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. The most serious risk is life-threatening respiratory depression (slowed or shallow breathing), which can occur at any time but is highest upon initiation or following a dose increase. Accidental ingestion of even one tablet, especially by a child, can be fatal.

Adverse Reactions and Frequencies

Adverse reactions are primarily extensions of the drug's effects. The most Very Common side effects (occurring in ge 1/10 patients) are constipation, nausea, dizziness, and somnolence (drowsiness). Common reactions (ge 1/100 to <1/10) include vomiting, headache, abdominal pain, dry mouth, and anxiety.

Serious and Clinically Significant Safety Concerns

  • Opioid Withdrawal: Sudden discontinuation or dose reduction in physically dependent individuals can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, uncontrolled pain, and psychological distress.
  • Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants: Concomitant use with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. This combination should be avoided or limited in dose and duration.
  • Adrenal and Sex Hormone Effects: Long-term opioid use may lead to adrenal insufficiency and decreased levels of sex hormones, which can manifest as fatigue, loss of appetite, decreased libido, and infertility.
  • Serotonin Syndrome: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition may occur when the drug is used with certain serotonergic medications, presenting with agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, and fever.

Patients should be monitored closely, especially upon initiation or after a dose change. The tablets must be swallowed whole; crushing, chewing, or dissolving the tablet releases a potentially fatal dose of oxycodone.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Officially Documented Overdose Manifestations

Overdose with this prolonged-release combination product is defined by the severe effects of strong opioid toxicity, primarily affecting the central nervous system and respiratory function. Officially documented clinical signs include respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing), miosis (pinpoint pupils), and a deepening state of drowsiness known as somnolence, which can progress to stupor or coma. Additional signs listed in regulatory documents include hypotension (low blood pressure) and skeletal muscle flaccidity. Certain patient groups, such as those with moderate to severe hepatic impairment or the elderly, are noted to be at increased risk of toxicity.

Severe Outcomes and Emergency Action

Regulatory authorities classify severe overdose as a life-threatening emergency, capable of causing circulatory failure, respiratory arrest, and ultimately death. Due to this severe risk profile, government guidance explicitly mandates that individuals seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services immediately upon the suspicion of overdose. This urgent action is also required for accidental ingestion of even one dose, particularly by a child.

Management and Monitoring Requirements

The management procedure officially described involves the use of Naloxone, which acts as the specific opioid antagonist to reverse the effects. Supportive intervention includes symptomatic and supportive treatment and the maintenance of adequate respiratory function. Due to the modified-release formulation, prolonged observation or continuous monitoring in a hospital setting may be required, as the effects of the opioid component may recur following initial reversal.

Therapeutic Uses of Таргин

This medication is generally applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to manage highly distressing and persistent conditions. It is considered relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension, specifically addressing three core therapeutic areas.

Sustained Management of Severe, Persistent Chronic Pain

This medication is generally applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to manage severe, ongoing pain that requires supportive symptom management appropriate for severe manifestations. It addresses symptoms related to physical discomfort by supporting continuous analgesic coverage throughout a twenty-four-hour period. This helps maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable for patients dealing with conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms.

Supportive Relief for Opioid-Related Gastrointestinal Impairment

This formulation is relevant for easing symptom clusters related to gastrointestinal impairment, such as opioid-induced constipation (OIC). This helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive while managing severe pain over a sustained period. This supports general well-being during symptomatic phases and contributes to easing the overall symptom load.

Management of Symptoms in Severe Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)

The medication is also applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to manage the discomfort and urge to move associated with severe RLS, in scenarios where prior symptomatic assistance has been inadequate. It is used for managing symptoms of increased neurological or muscular activity and is considered relevant in conditions where functional stability becomes affected.


Quick Fact: Relief for Persistent Pain and Bowel Discomfort

The combination is relevant for easing symptoms related to persistent, severe pain while also managing symptom clusters linked to organ-specific functional stress that may accompany opioid use. The combination is commonly used in clinical settings that involve chronic, unstable symptom patterns where supportive symptom management over time is appropriate.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Scope

Таргин (Oxycodone/Naloxone) is an opioid medication restricted to adult patients (18 years and older). Its use is established for individuals whose chronic pain requires daily, around-the-clock strong opioid treatment, or for the management of severe Restless Legs Syndrome. Use is not recommended in the pediatric population (under 18 years) as safety and effectiveness have not been established in this age group, nor is it recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Contraindications and Restrictions

Official regulatory documents define several absolute contraindications, meaning the medicine must not be used in patients with the following conditions:

Classification Population Exclusion (Must Not Use)
Respiratory Status Severe respiratory depression, severe bronchial asthma, severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or Cor Pulmonale.
Gastrointestinal Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus.
Organ Function Moderate to severe hepatic (liver) impairment.
Other Known hypersensitivity to oxycodone, naloxone, or any component of the tablets.

Use requires caution and close monitoring in individuals with mild hepatic or renal (kidney) impairment, as well as those with a history of head injury, increased intracranial pressure, or certain obstructive bowel conditions (non-paralytic ileus).

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The regulatory profile for Targin (Oxycodone/Naloxone) is defined by established pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic interactions, which determine necessary co-administration restrictions.

Contraindications and High-Risk Combinations: Co-administration with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) is formally contraindicated, and a mandatory timing-based restriction requires separation of at least 14 days after MAOI therapy is discontinued. A major pharmacodynamic risk exists with Central Nervous System (CNS) depressants, such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, and general anesthetics, due to the potential for synergistic effects leading to profound sedation and respiratory depression. Additionally, use with Mixed Opioid Agonist/Antagonist Analgesics is restricted as this combination may reduce the analgesic effect or precipitate withdrawal symptoms.

Metabolic and Exposure Alterations: The medicine is subject to Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme interactions. CYP3A4 inhibitors (like certain antifungals) increase the plasma concentration of oxycodone, while CYP3A4 inducers (like rifampin) decrease oxycodone levels, potentially resulting in reduced efficacy or withdrawal. Co-administration with other serotonergic drugs carries a documented risk of serotonin syndrome. Caution is required in patients with mild hepatic or renal impairment, and for elderly or debilitated patients, as the severity of interactions with CNS depressants may be heightened.

Mechanism of Action

How Таргин Works

The mechanism of action for Таргин (Oxycodone/Naloxone) is defined by a strategic combination of two components that target specific opioid receptors in different anatomical locations, achieving a mechanistic dissociation.


Central Modulation of Nociceptive Signaling

This domain involves Oxycodone, which acts as a full agonist primarily at mu-opioid receptors located in the brain and spinal cord. Binding to these receptors initiates a cellular cascade that hyperpolarizes nerve cells and inhibits the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, thereby attenuating the transmission of nociceptive signals within the central nervous system. This direct action on central neural pathways leads to the physiological outcome of reduced nociceptive signal transmission.


Peripheral Opioid Receptor Blockade in the Gut

This distinct domain involves Naloxone, which functions as a competitive antagonist primarily within the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) wall. Due to its very low oral bioavailability, Naloxone is restricted to this peripheral location where it selectively blocks Oxycodone's ability to bind to local mu-receptors. This blockade prevents Oxycodone from inhibiting smooth muscle contractions, which supports the physiological process of propulsive peristalsis.

Dosage and Administration Information

The administration of Таргин (Oxycodone/Naloxone prolonged-release tablets) is structured by explicit official guidelines to ensure the correct sustained release of its components. The medication is strictly for oral use and must be swallowed whole with liquid, as breaking, crushing, or dissolving the tablet compromises its extended-release properties.

The use pattern is based on a fixed schedule requiring administration twice daily, typically at 12-hour intervals. It is not intended for as-needed dosing. For patients who have not previously used strong opioids (opioid-naïve), the usual initial dose is 10 mg/5 mg (oxycodone/naloxone). The dose may then be adjusted cautiously by small increments, such as 5 mg/2.5 mg, every one to two days until a consistent level of use is established.

Official recommendations detail necessary starting dose adjustments for specific patient populations. For instance, the initial dose is generally reduced to one-half the usual starting amount for patients with renal impairment. Similarly, a reduction to one-third or one-half of the starting dose is indicated for those with mild hepatic impairment. Use in patients under 18 years of age is not officially recommended.

Should an administration time be missed, the guidance is to skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule, rather than doubling the amount. When therapy is no longer required, the official protocol mandates a gradual reduction of the dose, or tapering, over approximately one week, to discontinue use safely.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of Studies for Cefazolin


Evidence for Use in Surgical Prophylaxis (Pre-operative)

Cefazolin was studied for use before certain surgeries exploring infection rates at the surgical site. The research exploring this use mainly includes studies such as Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and Meta-analyses. These studies compared Cefazolin, often given as a single dose, against a placebo or against other antibiotics. Research examined outcomes related to physical discomfort and systemic imbalance, specifically monitoring the development of a Surgical Site Infection (SSI) in various procedures like heart, joint, and intestinal surgeries.

The findings describe patterns observed in the studies where the use of Cefazolin before surgery reported measurements of lower infection rates in the observed populations. Some research focused on how the drug levels behaved in the body during the procedure, reporting that drug concentrations were generally maintained at levels that studies suggest are above the Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC).

Evidence for Use in Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (SSTIs)

Cefazolin was evaluated in studies for its use in managing certain conditions characterized by episodic manifestations, such as common bacterial skin and soft tissue infections like cellulitis. The studies exploring this were often comparative trials that assessed Cefazolin alongside other antimicrobials. Research examined outcomes reflecting daily functioning and acute changes, specifically monitoring how quickly the patient's condition stabilized and if hospitalization was necessary.

Studies monitored how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, and the research highlighted changes measured during the study period, such as the resolution of fever or the reduction in the size of the affected area. Data show patterns related to similar rates of stabilization and discharge in studies that examined Cefazolin versus other antibiotic treatments for these conditions.


What is Still Uncertain About Cefazolin

Evidence is limited in key areas. For the treatment of some severe infections, such as bloodstream infections (Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia), the evidence primarily relies on Observational Cohort Studies and Retrospective Analyses, meaning certainty remains low due to the lack of highly controlled comparative trials.

For all indications, follow-up durations were limited, typically assessing outcomes only for 30 days. This means that long-term outcomes are not fully established regarding sustained health, recurrence rates, or durability of the observed responses. Available evidence is more limited in certain special populations, including pediatric patients, older adults with specific health issues, and pregnant individuals.

Key Studies & References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Guideline for the Prevention of Surgical Site Infection, 2017
  2. Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials Comparing Cefazolin to Cefuroxime, Ceftriaxone, and Cefamandole for Surgical Site Infection Prevention
  3. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: 2014 Update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA)
  4. Impact of Cefazolin Shortage on Clinical Outcomes of Adult Patients with Bacteremia Caused by Methicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus in a Tertiary Care University Hospital

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Таргин (FAQ)


Q: Does this medicine make you sleepy?

According to the official product information, somnolence (sleepiness or drowsiness) is noted as one of the most frequently reported adverse reactions during clinical studies. In these studies, somnolence occurred in a significant percentage of patients, at a rate that was at least double the incidence reported with placebo (an inactive substance). This information suggests that sleepiness is a recognized common effect.


Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

The official drug labeling contains important warnings regarding alcohol use. The medicine should not be prescribed to patients who have a history of substantial alcohol use or who have existing evidence of chronic liver disease. This is because severe hepatic (liver) failure has been reported with the use of this medication in patients with these underlying conditions. This official information highlights the potential risk when combined with substantial alcohol use.


Q: Is it safe to take this medicine for a long time?

The regulatory documents for this medication include information on its use for maintenance or continuation treatment for certain approved conditions. This suggests that ongoing use may be considered for some patients. Regulatory information highlights the importance of periodic reassessment by a healthcare provider for patients using the medicine long-term.


Q: Can children 5 years old use this medicine?

Official information indicates that this medicine is approved for treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) only in pediatric patients 7 years of age and older. It is also approved for Fibromyalgia only in pediatric patients 13 years of age and older. The medication's approval does not extend to children younger than these specific ages for those conditions.

How should Таргин be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Labeled Storage Temperature: Store at room temperature, specifically below 25 C or between 15 C and 30 C (regional variation).
Protection Requirements: Protect from light and moisture; keep in the original container.
Prohibited Conditions: Do not freeze or expose to excessive heat.
Child-Safety Requirement: Keep strictly out of the sight and reach of children and pets in a secure, preferably locked, place.
Disposal Instructions: Unused or expired tablets must be disposed of immediately via drug take-back programs. Alternatively, the FDA authorizes flushing down the toilet for this high-risk opioid if take-back is unavailable.

These mandated conditions ensure the prolonged-release tablets maintain stability until the expiry date. Strict disposal protocols are essential for this controlled substance to prevent accidental ingestion, misuse, or diversion, as determined by regulatory agencies.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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