A 65-year-old man on modified-release oxycodone reports breathing difficulties and severe drowsiness with disorientation (keys found in the fridge). What is the most appropriate action?

• A. Urgently contact GP or seek emergency medical attention
• B. Stop using the medication
• C. Reduce dose and monitor
• D. Take antacid

Answer: (A)

Recognize signs of opioid overdose. Opioids like oxycodone can slow breathing and depress the brain, so severe drowsiness, disorientation, and respiratory difficulty in someone taking this medication points to a potentially life-threatening overdose, especially in an older person where risks are higher.

Urgently contact a GP or seek emergency medical attention. This situation needs rapid professional assessment and support for breathing, monitoring, and any reversal treatment that may be needed. Time matters because respiratory depression can progress to coma or death if not treated promptly.

Stopping the medication at home, simply reducing the dose, or taking an antacid would not address the acute danger of respiratory failure. Immediate medical help is essential to stabilize the patient and manage the overdose safely.