Are Oxycodone and Percocet the Same?

No, oxycodone and Percocet are not the same. They are very similar but they have slightly different ingredients. The difference between the two is their ingredients. Oxycodone is only oxycodone where as Percocet is a combination drug of both oxycodone and acetaminophen.  Although these medications work for the same purpose, they act differently on the body.

Oxycodone

According to the National Library of Medicine, oxycodone uses the opioid receptors in the brain to change the way that the brain feels pain. It is normally prescribed for moderate to severe pain. Oxycodone is highly addictive and very often the subject of abuse. Most people who abuse oxycodone crush the pills due to the time release coating and either snort them or mix them into a liquid.

Due to its potential for abuse and addiction, if you are taking oxycodone you should see your doctor regularly and tell him if you are growing tolerant to the drug. If you do need treatment for an oxycodone addiction, all you have to do is call 888-810-2643. We can help you find the treatment that you need.

Percocet

Percocet is oxycodone mixed with acetaminophen. This mixture is said to relieve pain in two ways. The oxycodone uses the opioid receptors in the brain in order to block pain signals. The acetaminophen is also a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, and fever, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

Percocet abuse can cause severe liver damage.

There are also several warnings out about both acetaminophen and oxycodone. Acetaminophen is known to seriously damage the liver to the point where the liver needs to be replaced when you take it at high levels.

This liver damage is why so many people who abuse Percocet or are addicted to it wind up with severe liver damage and in need of a transplant. Percocet is abused in much the same manner as oxycodone is but the combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen make it more dangerous.

Dangers of Acetaminophen

Not only does the acetaminophen in Percocet cause liver damage when used in large quantities, it can cause other damage as well. The liver damage can start with something as simple as gastric upset, nausea, and vomiting. By the time these symptoms are noticed, it is already too late.

Another side effect of acetaminophen is gastric ulcers. The chemicals in acetaminophen can eat through the lining of the stomach. Combined with large amounts of oxycodone, this condition can go unnoticed until there is a severe bleed in the stomach or intestines.

Percocet and Oxycodone are Both Highly Addictive

Percocet and oxycodone addiction by themselves are a very serious matter that require treatment. If you are taking more than the recommended amount of either, chances are you are addicted to one or the other and the acetaminophen is already taking its toll on your body.

You need to seek treatment before it is too late and the damage to your body is already done. For more information on treatment or to find treatment that works for you call 888-810-2643.