Percocet

Percocet, which is also known as oxycodone/APAP, is a narcotic prescription medication that has been approved for treating moderate to severe chronic and acute pain. It is most commonly prescribed for use in short-term pain which may be due to injuries, surgery, or dental procedures. The prescription drug Percocet can also be used on occasion for migraines, chronic pain, or various other kinds of chronic or acute conditions that bring about pain.

Generic Name: Oxycodone and Acetaminophen
Brand Names: Percocet, Endocet, Roxicet, Tylox

How Does Percocet Work?

Percocet is actually a combination of drugs. It contains oxycodone and acetaminophen. The Oxycodone is considered a narcotic opioid for pain relief. Chemically, it is related to codeine. The oxycodone part of Percocet can be effective in decreasing pain as well as relieving cough. It can cause drowsiness as well as decreased breathing. Acetaminophen is a very well known pain reliever. It can also be used to lower fevers, and is found in many non-prescription medications like Tylenol. By adding acetaminophen to the oxycodone both drugs work more effectively at relieving pain. The combination may also limit the potential for abusive use of oxycodone.

Percocet Interaction Issues

If you combine an antidepressant along with Percocet you may increase the chances of side effects. Side effects can include drowsiness, memory loss, confusion, and difficulty breathing. Some serious side effects can also occur.

Side effects of Percocet

You must seek emergency help if you experience any type of allergic reaction with this drug. These include: sudden rash or hives, any difficulty in breathing, sudden swelling of throat, face, tongue, or lips. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following serious side effects:

• slow heartbeat
• feeling light-headed
• shallow breathing
• confusion
• fainting
• stomach pain
• seizures
• nausea or sudden loss of appetite
• dark urine
• itching

This list is not complete. Ask your doctor about other side effects.

Missed dose of Percocet

Because Percocet is only taken when needed, most people do not have a set dose schedule. If you take Percocet regularly and miss a dose, then take the missed one when you remember, unless it is nearly time for the regular dose. If that happens, skip missed dose completely and wait for the next scheduled dose. You cannot double up on this drug. Doing so can be dangerous.

Percocet Overdose Issues

If you overdose on Percocet, get emergency medical attention immediately. Understand that an overdose of this drug may be fatal. The overdose symptoms are nausea, extreme drowsiness, vomiting, pinpoint pupils, dark-colored urine, confusion, muscle weakness, cold clammy skin, blue lips, weak pulse, coma, shallow breathing, and perhaps no breathing at all.

Percocet Addiction Issues

Percocet is a narcotic and as such can be abused. In fact, many people have become addicted to it. The specific signs of Percocet addiction can be hard to distinguish. If you suspect you are becoming addicted, see your doctor. Common Signs Associated with Percocet Addiction:

• Using up prescriptions too fast
• See more than one doctor in order to get more Percocet prescriptions
• Reporting lost prescriptions when you know you are lying
• Not being able to live happily without the Percocet