Percocet Facts
Percocet is the brand name for a pain medication containing acetaminophen and oxycodone. Acetaminophen is an analgesic (most commonly sold under the brand name Tylenol), while oxycodone is a narcotic (opioid) drug. Doctors prescribe Percocet to relieve moderate pain.
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Purpose
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Percocet is mainly used to relieve short-term pain after surgery or injury. Some people also take Percocet as long-term therapy for chronic pain with successful results.
FDA Panel Recommendation
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In July 2009, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) panel voted to ban drugs combining acetaminophen and narcotics because of death rates associated with these substances. The FDA typically follows panel recommendations or adds stringent warnings to the product labeling after such advisories.
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Acetaminophen Risks
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Acetaminophen can cause liver damage, particularly if users drink alcohol regularly or take more Percocet than the directions specify.
Narcotic Overdose Potential
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Narcotics are respiratory system depressants, which can slow breathing if the person takes larger doses than prescribed. Automatic breathing can slow to the point of stopping altogether. This can be very dangerous during sleep, since the individual may be too sedated to wake and start breathing again.
Narcotic Withdrawal
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Because narcotics are addictive, prolonged use of Percocet can lead to withdrawal symptoms when use of the substance is discontinued, even when taken as directed. Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, fever, anxiety, insomnia, muscle pain and sweating. Long-term users of Percocet should decrease dosage gradually when discontinuing the medication.
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