Understanding the Distinctions Between Oxycodone and Percocet
Oxycodone and Percocet are often confused as they both belong to the category of opioid painkillers, utilized for pain relief in the body. However, it is important to recognize that these medications have distinct characteristics and have been subjects of discussion amidst the opioid epidemic. While they share similarities, there are key differences between Oxycodone and Percocet:
1. Composition: Oxycodone is a standalone medication that solely contains the opioid pain reliever oxycodone. Percocet, on the other hand, is a combination medication that contains both oxycodone and acetaminophen.
2. Acetaminophen Content: Percocet contains acetaminophen in addition to oxycodone. Acetaminophen is a non-opioid pain reliever that enhances the analgesic effects of oxycodone.
3. Prescribed Formulations: Oxycodone is available in various forms, including immediate-release and extended-release formulations. Percocet, however, is typically available in immediate-release form.
4. Administration: Oxycodone is commonly prescribed as a standalone medication for managing severe pain. Percocet is prescribed for moderate to moderately severe pain, often after surgeries or dental procedures.
5. Dosage Flexibility: Due to the inclusion of acetaminophen, Percocet offers more flexibility in terms of dosage adjustments. Oxycodone, as a standalone medication, has less flexibility in this regard.
6. Addiction Potential: Both Oxycodone and Percocet carry a high risk of addiction due to their opioid properties. It is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and duration to minimize the risk of dependence.
The FDA has warned that if any drug combines acetaminophen with an opioid then it may cause severe liver damage. Therefore, it is advised to limit the amount of acetaminophen to make them safer. Opioids help in blocking the pain signals that reach the brain. This happens when an opioid gets binds with the opioid receptors in the brain and the spinal cord.
Oxycodone Uses Vs Percocet Uses
Oxycodone helps to treat moderate to severe pain and its extended-release form provides relief from ongoing pain like the pain associated with cancer. Whereas Percocet also treats moderate to severe pain but is also prescribed for fever conditions. It is useful in treating breakthrough pain when long-acting pain medication is not enough to provide relief. Percocet is not recommended for long-term use because of the presence of acetaminophen.
Effectiveness of Oxycodone vs Percocet
Both of the medications are effective in providing relief from pain. In some studies, it is found that when Oxycodone is combined with analgesics that it might provide instant relief and few side effects. When you consume Oxycodone immediate-release tablets or Percocet then they will start working within 15 to 30 minutes after consumption and their peak effect will start within 1 hour which lasts for about 3 to 6 hours. Extended-release tablets of Oxycodone are longer-acting and start to relieve pain within 2- 4 hours after consumption. Both medicines when used for the long-term may stop providing their effects to relieve pain. This happens when you develop tolerance and you need a high dose to get relief.
Side Effects of Oxycodone vs Percocet
The commonly faced side effects of Oxycodone & Percocet are almost similar that are as follows: –
- Unusual drowsiness,
- Nausea,
- Constipation,
- Dizziness,
- Headache,
- Motor skill impairment,
- Dizziness,
- Loss of appetite, etc.
Oxycodone causes dizziness & feelings of euphoria, vomiting of blood, urinating problems, fever and chills, cough, etc. On the other hand, Percocet contains acetaminophen that causes severe damage to the liver and other side effects.
Drug Interactions
Both Percocet & Oxycodone require a medical prescription from a doctor. It is important to discuss your current medications and supplements with the doctor to know the suitable dose for you. It is suggested to never take the Percocet pill alongside other drugs that include acetaminophen, or OTC versions. If you take opioid analgesics along with serotonin reuptake inhibitors then you might face serotonin syndrome.
Other drugs that might interact with Percocet are
- Beta-blockers,
- Zidovudine,
- Probenecid,
- Birth control pills,
- Activated charcoal,
- Alcohol,
- Pills treating asthma and motion sickness, etc.
Other Considerations
If you buy Oxycodone & Percocet then it might not work well for everyone. There are some considerations that you must keep in your mind when you should avoid taking Percocet medicine are as follows: –
- Women who are pregnant, in labor, or breastfeeding,
- Having drug abuse or addiction in the past,
- If you are sensitive to acetaminophen or Oxycodone,
- If you are taking other medications that may interact with Oxycodone or acetaminophen.
It is therefore required to consult your doctor before you buy Percocet pills online. You must tell your medical history to check whether medication is safe for you or not and what dose you must prefer.
