Oxycodone is a strong opioid painkiller that is used to treat moderate to severe pain. It changes how the brain and nervous system react to pain, which is how it works. In contrast, Percocet is a mixed drug that has both oxycodone and acetaminophen in it. Paracetamol, which is another name for acetaminophen, is a pain reliever that is not as strong but makes oxycodone work better. Percocet is prescribed for the same reason as oxycodone, but it also has the pain-relieving effects of acetaminophen. Below we will discuss more on Is Oxycodone and Percocet the Same.
What Are the Differences Between Oxycodone and Percocet?
Oxycodone and Percocet are mostly different in what they are made of. Oxycodone is a drug that only has one ingredient, but Percocet has both oxycodone and acetaminophen in it. This mix is meant to help with pain relief while possibly lowering the amount of oxycodone that needs to be taken. Acetaminophen can help lower fevers and ease pain in ways that are different from how opioids work. This gives us more than one way to deal with pain. Because of this, Percocet may work better than oxycodone alone for some types of pain and also from this you get to know that is oxycodone and Percocet the same drug or not.
What Are Oxycodone and Percocet Used For?
Opioids like oxycodone and Percocet are both prescribed to treat pain that other drugs can’t handle. Oxycodone is often prescribed for people who have long-term pain, like cancer pain or severe arthritis. Because it has both oxycodone and acetaminophen in it, Percocet is usually given for quick pain, like pain after surgery or an injury. Acetaminophen, which is found in Percocet, can also help reduce swelling and fever, making it a useful choice for short-term pain relief.
Can Both Oxycodone and Percocet Cause side effects?
The effects of oxycodone and Percocet are the same since they both have oxycodone in them. Getting dizzy, sleepy, constipated, sick, or vomiting are some of the most common side effects. However, because Percocet has acetaminophen in it, it might hurt your liver if you take a lot of it or keep taking it for a long time. People who take Percocet should watch how much acetaminophen they take in total, especially if they also drink alcohol or take other drugs that contain acetaminophen.
Are Oxycodone and Percocet Both Just as Addicting?
OTC drugs like oxycodone and Percocet can make you very likely to become addicted or dependent on them. The danger comes from the oxycodone part, which can make you physically and mentally dependent on it. However, the fact that acetaminophen is in Percocet doesn’t change how addicting it is in a big way. Abusing either drug can cause serious health problems, such as an overdose. It is very important for patients to carefully follow their doctor’s instructions and be aware of the chance of becoming addicted.
How Are Oxycodone and Percocet Given and Prescribed?
Oxycodone comes in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, so the dose can be changed depending on the patient’s pain management needs. Long-lasting pain relief is what extended-release versions are for, while immediate-release versions help right away. Percocet is usually sold in an immediate-release form because it is meant to treat severe pain. How often either drug is taken will depend on how bad the pain is, how well the patient responds to treatment, and their overall health.
If You Have to Choose Between Oxycodone and Percocet, When Should You Do It?
Oxycodone or Percocet should be chosen based on the patient’s medical history and the type of pain they are experiencing. Oxycodone, especially in its extended-release form, may be better for people with chronic pain who need long-term opioid therapy. Oxycodone and acetaminophen together in Percocet can help with more than just acute pain. It can also help with fever and inflammation. It is important for patients to talk to their doctor about their symptoms and medical history so that they can get the best medication for their needs. The choice should come after a careful examination of the advantages and possible dangers of each choice.