Can I drink tea while taking oxycodone hydrochloride sustained-release tablets?

Nov 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
In general, it is not recommended to drink tea when taking oxycodone hydrochloride sustained-release tablets. It is best to take them at least two hours apart to avoid affecting drug efficacy or causing discomfort. It is advisable to take the medication first and wait until the drug is mostly absorbed before drinking tea. If consuming tea, choose a weak brew and limit the amount—avoid strong tea. During treatment, strictly follow your doctor's instructions and do not adjust the dosage on your own.

Generally, it is not recommended to drink tea when taking oxycodone hydrochloride sustained-release tablets. It's best to take them at least two hours apart to avoid affecting drug efficacy or causing discomfort. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Oxycodone hydrochloride sustained-release tablets are potent analgesics that must be adequately absorbed through the intestines to exert stable effects. Tea contains components such as tannic acid and caffeine. Tannic acid may bind with the medication, forming insoluble precipitates that reduce absorption efficiency and weaken pain relief. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant, whereas the medication acts as a central nervous system depressant; their opposing actions may disrupt normal neurological function and potentially worsen symptoms like palpitations and dizziness. Additionally, both tea and the medication can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, and consuming them together may intensify adverse reactions such as nausea and stomach pain.

It is recommended to prioritize taking oxycodone hydrochloride sustained-release tablets and wait until the drug has been mostly absorbed before drinking tea. If tea is consumed, opt for weak tea and limit the amount—avoid strong tea. During treatment, strictly follow medical instructions, do not adjust the dosage independently, maintain a light and easily digestible diet, and keep a regular daily routine to minimize interference with drug absorption and overall health.