Percocet Vs. Tylenol 3
Percocet is a narcotic analgesic obtainable by prescription. Tylenol 3 is also a prescription pain reliever. They both can also be used to reduce fever. These two medications are prescribed in similar situations. They are comparable, but are definitely different in composition.
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Percocet Composition
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Percocet is made up of two different drugs, oxycodone and acetaminophen. Oxycodone is a narcotic. Narcotics are pain relievers that are very effective, but also can be addictive. Acetaminophen is a non-narcotic pain reliever and antipyretic (fever reducer) that is added to Percocet to increase the effectiveness of oxycodone.
Tylenol 3 Composition
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Tylenol 3 is composed of caffeine, acetaminophen, and codeine. Codeine is a narcotic analgesic, acetaminophen is an analgesic and anti-pyretic, and caffeine is a stimulant. Codeine's effectiveness is increased with the acetaminophen addition.
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Addictive
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Addiction is a possibility when using narcotics long term or not as prescribed. Since both Tylenol 3 and Percocet contain narcotics, they both have the ability to cause dependency to the drug if misused. Therefore, if you already struggle with an addiction, be sure to address this with your physician as she may prescribe something non-habit forming instead.
Treatment of pain
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Tylenol 3 is stated to be used for mild to moderate pain. Percocet is designed to be used for moderate to moderately severe pain. Therefore, if the pain is more severe, it is likely Percocet would be prescribed over Tylenol 3.
Similar Side Effects
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The side effects of Percocet and Tylenol 3 are very similar. They include nausea, dizziness, sedation, and vomiting. Since everyone's body reacts differently to medications, a past history of side effects when using one of these medications may be what decides the choice of prescription between these two.
Summary
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Tylenol 3 and Percocet are both narcotic analgesics that have similar side effects. They are both habit forming and can be addictive. They both are effective, but Tylenol 3 is usually prescribed over Percocet for a lesser level of pain. Since both are obtained through prescription, it is important to be honest about your discomfort level and your history when working with your physician to manage your pain.
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