The maker
Endo Pharmaceuticals is the maker of the brand name form of Percocet. The generic form of this medication is made by many different companies.
What it does
This is a combination medicine. It is prescribed to ease pain that is moderate to severe. The Oxycodone element in it is a narcotic analgesic and the acetaminophen is not a narcotic, but is a pain reliever. Oxycodone works with your brain to alter how the body senses and acts in response to pain. Acetaminophen also helps to lower fevers.
Secondary effects
There is the potential that vomiting, nausea, constipation, or lightheadedness will occur. Some of these secondary effects will likely diminish after you've been taking this medicine for a time. If you notice that these side effects continue or become worse, you should tell your health care provider right away.
You can prevent your chances of becoming constipated by eating a diet that is high in fiber and drink lots of water. It is also helpful to get enough exercise. You should also ask your doctor to help you to choose a laxative.
Dizziness and lightheadedness can be reduced if you slowly stand when lying down or sitting.
Keep in mind that your doctor has given you a prescription for this medicine because she or he has determined that you will benefit more than the side effects could harm you. Many people who take this medicine don't notice any serious secondary effects.
Talk to your health care provider right away if you notice any of these rare but potentially serious side effects: mood changes, changes in the way you think; severe pain in the abdomen, severe stomach pain and trouble urinating.
You should seek emergency medical care if you notice any of these very rare but very serious secondary effects: seizure, shallow or slow breathing, fainting, feeling unusually sleepy, trouble waking up.
Possible Drug Interactions
Some drugs have the potential to change when you take other kinds of medications or herbal supplements with them. These changes can increase the risk for serious secondary effects and can even cause your medicines to not be effective. There is the potential for drug interactions, but they don't always happen. Your health care provider can help to reduce the chances for these interactions by closely monitoring you and changing the way you take your medicines.
In help your health care provider offer you the very best in care, talk to him or her about everything you're currently taking. This includes over the counter medications, prescription medications, vitamins and herbal supplements. While taking this medication, you should never stop, start or change your dosages of any other medications that you are taking without discussing with your doctor first.
Some of the medicines that have a potential for interactions with Percocet include: medications that include pentazocine, butorphanol and nalbuphine, as well as some narcotic antagonists.
