Differences Between Percocet and Oxycodone

If you have experienced chronic pain or invasive surgery, your doctor likely prescribed a potent opioid. Many patients may receive drugs like Percocet or oxycodone post-surgery, when dealing when a painful illness like cancer, or even after an intense dental session. These prescription drugs have now become so commonplace that the United States is currently battling an opioid epidemic as a result. 

There is an abundance of misinformation about opioids and the different risks that each brand may pose for patients. There are still many patients that believe that Percocet and oxycodone are essentially the same, but there are major distinctions between the two that individuals receiving pain treatment need to be aware of.

What Are the Differences Between Percocet and Oxycodone? 

Both Percocet and oxycodone are powerful opioid medications. Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that will sedate your central nervous system to fight off the sensation of pain. Percocet is a combination drug, made up of equal parts oxycodone and acetaminophen, a non-opioid pain reliever. This makes Percocet more potent and is given to patients that have highly severe to chronic forms of pain. Typically patients that have severe arthritis or have a long-standing battle with cancer are recommended this medication.

Side Effects of Both Opioids

While these two opioids are effective in relieving pain, there are some side effects that are associated with these medications. The side effects that both opioids share are as follows:

• A calm state as a result of the sedation of your central nervous system.
• Drowsiness
• Intestinal discomfort as a result of the drug interaction with your gi tract.
• Nausea
• Lack of appetite
• Dizziness 
• Headache
• Motor skill impairment 

You may have additional side effects such as:

• fever and chills
• violent cough
• painful urination
• skin rash and itching
• vomiting of blood

Additionally, since Percocet contains acetaminophen, you may experience side effects such as: 

• abdominal pain
• yellow skin
• yellow eyes
• liver damage

Importance of Seeking Help

Both opioids are highly addictive, so much so that the DEA has identified both as Schedule II drugs. This means that their potential for misuse is likely.

During these times, when many Americans are coming to terms that over one million lives were lost during the pandemic, there also exists a need to address the ongoing opioid epidemic. The COVID pandemic has, in ways, fueled the growing dependence on prescription opioids for the purpose of emotional coping. In 2020, America experienced record highs for drug overdoses and suicides. Many chronic pain patients have become reliant on opioids and see no way out of the cycle of addiction.

However, there is a way to still seek treatment for chronic pain without becoming opioid-dependent. Percocet and oxycodone can be very safe and effective in treating pain if taken in the prescribed doses and with clinical supervision, but many patients are also using these opioids to treat emotional pain as well. It is critical that patients also seek out treatment that cares for them psychologically as well as physically.

Oasis Recovery Can Help 

If you or a loved one is currently struggling with Percocet or oxycodone abuse, help is available! We encourage you to reach out to the professionals at Oasis Recovery to learn more about our personalized treatment programs and mental health services. With professional help, recovery is always possible. Our experts work with you to design a treatment plan that fits your needs. Common treatment programs include:

• Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
• Full-time Addiction Treatment on campus
• Aftercare Services

Contact us today for more information about how our programs and services can help you get your life back on track. You do not have to struggle with opioid addiction alone.