TarginAct® is a medicine used to help relieve severe pain when other types of painkillers aren’t enough. It also includes an ingredient to help reduce constipation, a common side effect of strong pain medications.
This guide will explain what TarginAct® is, how to take it safely, what to watch out for, and how it may affect you. It’s written in a friendly, easy-to-understand way to help you make informed choices about your treatment.
What Is TarginAct®?
TarginAct® is a combination pain medicine that contains two ingredients:
- Oxycodone: A strong painkiller that helps relieve pain.
- Naloxone: Helps prevent constipation caused by oxycodone.
What Does TarginAct® Look Like?
TarginAct® comes in different strengths. Your doctor will decide which one is right for you:
| Strength | Color | What it Contains |
|---|---|---|
| 5 mg/2.5 mg | Blue tablet | 5 mg Oxycodone + 2.5 mg Naloxone |
| 10 mg/5 mg | White tablet | 10 mg Oxycodone + 5 mg Naloxone |
| 20 mg/10 mg | Pink tablet | 20 mg Oxycodone + 10 mg Naloxone |
| 40 mg/20 mg | Yellow tablet | 40 mg Oxycodone + 20 mg Naloxone |
Each tablet is shaped like a capsule and should be swallowed whole with water. Never break, chew, or crush the tablet.
When Is TarginAct® Used?
Doctors prescribe TarginAct® to treat severe, long-lasting pain—like pain from cancer, surgery, or chronic conditions—when other medicines haven’t worked well. It also helps reduce the chance of constipation from painkillers.
How to Take TarginAct®
- Take it every 12 hours (usually in the morning and evening)
- Swallow tablets whole with enough water
- Can be taken with or without food
Your doctor will choose the dose that best fits your needs. Always follow the instructions carefully.
Important: Do not share this medicine with others. It was prescribed for you only.
Who Should NOT Take TarginAct®?
You should not take this medicine if you:
- Are allergic to oxycodone, naloxone, or any of the ingredients
- Have serious breathing problems
- Have severe liver or kidney problems
- Have a condition called paralytic ileus (serious bowel issue)
Talk to your doctor if you have any health issues before starting this medicine.
Warnings and Precautions
Please tell your doctor if you:
- Are older or very sick
- Have lung, liver, kidney, heart, or thyroid problems
- Have had a head injury or seizures
- Have a history of alcohol or drug addiction
Taking TarginAct® can cause drowsiness or make you feel light-headed. Be careful when driving or using machines.
Can You Take Other Medicines with TarginAct®?
TarginAct® may not mix well with some medicines. Tell your doctor if you take:
- Sleeping pills, sedatives, or tranquilizers
- Antidepressants or antipsychotics
- Blood thinners like warfarin
- Antibiotics or antifungals
- Medicines for epilepsy or allergies
- Grapefruit juice (yes, really!)
These can change how TarginAct® works or increase side effects.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- Do not use during pregnancy unless your doctor says it’s absolutely necessary
- Not recommended during labor or while breastfeeding
TarginAct® may harm your baby or cause withdrawal symptoms after birth.
Side Effects – What to Expect
Like all medicines, TarginAct® can cause side effects. Not everyone gets them, but here are some you might notice:

Very Common (happens to more than 1 in 10 people):
- Nausea (feeling sick)
- Constipation
- Feeling sleepy or dizzy
Common (1 in 10 to 1 in 100 people):
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling tired or weak
Less Common or Rare:
- Allergic reactions
- Breathing problems
- Feeling confused or anxious
- Skin rashes or itching
- Muscle cramps or pain
- Problems passing urine
If you experience serious side effects, like trouble breathing or signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, trouble swallowing), call your doctor or go to the emergency room right away.
What Happens If You Take Too Much?
Taking too much TarginAct® can be very dangerous. Symptoms may include:
- Breathing that slows or stops
- Sleepiness or coma
- Weak muscles
Call emergency services immediately if you or someone else may have overdosed.
Storage Instructions
- Store at room temperature (below 25°C)
- Keep in the original packaging until use
- Keep out of reach of children
Packaging and Manufacturer Info
TarginAct® is available in blister packs of 28 tablets. It is made and supplied by:
Mundipharma (Pty) Ltd
Block D, Grosvenor Square, Park Lane, Century City, 7441, South Africa
www.mundipharma.co.za
Final Tips for Patients
- Take TarginAct® exactly as your doctor tells you
- Don’t skip doses or stop suddenly without medical advice
- Store it safely and away from others
- Report any side effects or concerns to your doctor
This guide is here to help you understand your medicine. If you have more questions, please speak to your healthcare provider. They’re the best source of advice for your individual needs.
Education:
NPU (National Pharmaceutical University) 2010-2015, 2015-2016 internship
Work experience:
2010 – 2012 Pharmacy 63 – Production Department
2012 – 2015 Pharmacy 63 – Pharmacist
2015 – 2016 Pharmacy 63 – Pharmacist
2016 – to date Pharmacy UA – Head of Pharmacy






