Percocet (Acetaminophen and Oxycodone)

What is Percocet?

Percocet is a medication used for the treatment of pain. It is a combination of oxycodone and an NSAID. The two most common NSAIDs contained in Percocet tablets are either acetaminophen (paracetamol) or aspirin. Most Percocet contains paracetamol these days as technically the combination of oxycodone and aspirin is named Percoden. Paracetamol has a synergistic effect with the analgesic properties of oxycodone. Percocet is usually prescribed for high levels of pain and has been shown to significantly approve the quality of life of those that have long term moderate to severe pain.

Is Percocet an opiate?

Percocet contains oxycodone which is an opiate. Oxycodone is classified as a semi-synthetic opiate as it is synthesized from the naturally occurring opiate thebaine which is found in poppies. Due to Percocet containing an opiate is a schedule II substance in the United States. This means that possession of Percocet without a valid prescription is highly illegal. The fact that Percocet contains an opiate means that it is highly subject to dependency and abuse. For this reason some doctors are very wary to prescribe Percocet unless they are certain it is absolutely necessary. The likelihood of becoming dependent upon Percocet is also very high due to the fact that it contains an opiate. Those with a history of past drug or alcohol abuse are especially prone to becoming addicted to Percocet. For this reason many doctors will not prescribe those with past substance abuse problems Percocet.

Other Percocet ingredients

In addition to containing the opiate oxycodone Percocet also contains paracetamol. Paracetamol is the active ingredient in Tylenol. The dosage of oxycodone and paracetamol vary depending upon the severity of the pain being treated. The amount of oxycodone per tablet varies from 2.5mg to 10mg. This is combined with differing amounts of paracetamol that vary from 325mg to 650mg. These two substances have a synergistic effect upon easing pain. This allows for the patient to take less of the addicting opiate oxycodone while still having their pain treated. Unfortunately, paracetamol can be hard on your liver if taken for a long period of time, so those with liver problems should avoid taking Percocet. Also, for those who regularly drink alcohol in amounts of three drinks a day or more should avoid Percocet due to the risk of increased chance of liver damage.

What is Percocet used for?

Percocet is used to treat moderate to severe pain. One of the more common uses is the treatment of back pain. Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors such as bulging disks due to injuries from car accidents. Percocet is also often prescribed to those going through treatment for cancer. It is very effective and relieving much of the pain associated with cancer treatment and has been shown to improve the quality of cancer patients lives to a great extent. Percocet can also be used in the treatment of migraines. Both the paracetamol and oxycodone are very effective at treating and stopping the development of migraines. Percocet may also be prescribed to those who have just undergone a major surgery.