Oxycodone
On 1 February 2019, PHARMAC changed the funded brand of oxycodone hydrochloride controlled-release tablets. These tablets come in different strengths – 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg and 80 mg.
Oxycodone is used to help treat severe pain when other forms of pain relief haven’t been effective.
What changed?
The funded brand of oxycodone is changing from the BNM brand to the Oxycodone Sandoz brand. All the funded strengths will be changing to the Oxycodone Sandoz brand.
The funded brand from 1 March 2019
- From 1 March 2019 the Oxycodone Sandoz brand of oxycodone was fully funded and available for patients.
- From 1 May 2019 a part payment might have been required for the BNM brand of oxycodone.
- From 1 August 2019 only the Oxycodone Sandoz brand of oxycodone is fully funded.
People wishing to keep using their current brand of oxycodone, could ask their pharmacist to check the price and availability. PHARMAC cannot guarantee the availability or price of the BNM brand of oxycodone after 1 August 2019.
Oxycodone Sandoz works the same as other brands
- Oxycodone Sandoz works the same as the BNM brand of oxycodone.
- Oxycodone Sandoz has the same active ingredient as other brands of oxycodone and is delivered in the body in the same way. This means it will have the same effect as other brands.
- Oxycodone Sandoz has been thoroughly evaluated by Medsafe to ensure it’s safe and works the same as other brands.
- Oxycodone Sandoz will still come in a 20-tablet blister pack.
- Your Oxycodone Sandoz will look very similar to the brand you’re used to.
There’s more information about medicines and changes to medicines on PHARMAC’s website: The facts about generic and biosimilar medicines.
Find out more
If you have any questions or concerns about changing brands, talk with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
You can also get more information from us at enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz or 0800 660 050.
Last updated: 24 March 2020
