Percocet
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General
Combination of

Oxycodone
Paracetamol

Other names

Endocet
Ratio-oxycocet

CAS number CAS number::330988-72-2
Except where noted otherwise, data are given for
materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa)
Disclaimer and references

Percocet is the trade name of a narcotic pain killer that is used to treat moderate to severe pain. It contains oxycodone which is a higher grade painkiller that can be very addictive, as well as Acetaminophen which is comparative to Tylenol. When these two substances are combined however, the effect is increased. It comes as a small pill that has a time release mechanism, releasing oxycodone periodically. Although Percocet relieves pain, it also has some negative factors. When taken at a higher dosage, it can be a cause for liver disease, or other pains relating to the liver. Most people that take Percocet do not have extreme side effects as their doctor should have determined that the patient was in enough pain to have to be on a higher level painkiller. It can also be highly addictive. People who take it recreationally say they experience feelings of euphoria, and because it blocks the pain receptors in the brain, it numbs anxiety and depression.

Contents

Properties/Appearance

Percocet is as a small round pill, however it may come in two different varieties. There is Percocet DuPont that is white with a small line pressed across one side. The word Percocet is printed on one side with DuPont on the other. The other type called Percocet 5, same in strength, also comes in blue with a line also pressed across the pill. On the other side of the pill, there is the word Percocet with a large 5 below it. The imprint and color may vary based on strength, brand name, and pharmaceutical company. [1]

Medical Use

Percocet is a drug, which contains a narcotic pain killer. It is used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain. It is similar to morphine in strength. Percocet works on a time release mechanism, releasing only small amount of oxycodone over a long period of time. However, it should not be altered for example by crushing, chewing, or breaking. Once the time release is inactive, the pill can become extremely dangerous, and the user is susceptible to a life threatening overdose. Acetaminophen is the second main ingredient in Percocet which is a lower dose pain killer than the other ingredient Oxycodone. Acetaminophen is comparative to Tylenol, and when combined with oxycodone, the effect is enhanced.[2] If a dose of Percocet is missed, the patient is asked to take it when they remember, however if the next dose is coming up soon, take that one only. Never double up doses. Store Percocet at room temperature. When disposing of it, the FDA suggests flushing it down a toilet or drain. [3]

Drug Abuse

Prescription drug addiction is a large problem worldwide, and Percocet, being a higher dosage pain killer, is no exception. This painkiller effects the central nervous system causing changes in pain receptors in the brain. Percocet contains oxycodone which is an ingredient that can also be found in heroin and morphine. This drug can even produce a similar high to heroin.What makes Percocet so addictive is that it numbs depression, emotional pain, and anxiety. If taken orally, there is a time release mechanism in this pill that will release over a long period of time, giving relief for hours, and keeping a steady dosage. However when crushed up, the time releasing mechanism is no longer available, and will cause an immediate and extreme high. The high of Percocet can be described as euphoric, calm, and intensified contentment. It is illegal to give or sell this drug to others.[4]

Warnings and Side Effects

A bottle of pills.

The main warning associated with Percocet is the fact that an ingredient in it is acetaminophen. When taken in smaller doses it can help with pain, fever, or cough and cold. However when 4 grams (4000 milligrams) or more are taken orally, it is cause for risk of liver disease. The risk can increase when alcohol is also consumed with this drug. Symptoms of liver problems pertaining to this drug include nausea or vomiting, dark urine, stomach/ abdominal pain, extreme tiredness, and yellowing of the skin/ eyes. People taking Percocet don't often have side effects because a doctor has already taken the time to determine that this drug will be necessary and beneficial to the patient. Main side effects associated with Percocet are nausea/ vomiting, lightheadedness, dizziness, drowsiness, and constipation. But most side effects are said to go away the longer the patient takes the drug. some symptoms can be helped. To prevent constipation, eating a diet high in fiber, frequent exercise, and drinking plenty of water will help to tale this problem away. To help prevent dizziness, it is recommended to get up from the laying/ sitting position slowly. Allergic reactions are extremely rare, but if they do happen, watch out for rash, itching or swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing. If any of these symptoms occur, get medical attention immediately. [5]

Video

Percocet Facts and Effects.

References

  1. Percocet Images Drugs.com. Web. Updated May 6th, 2014 Author Unknown.
  2. Prescription Drug Abuse PrescriptionDrugAbuse. Web. Accessed 20th May 2014. Author unknown.
  3. Drugs & Medications - percocet oral WebMD. Web. Accessed 20th May 2014. Author unknown.
  4. Percocet Abuse Signs, Symptoms and Addiction Treatment Coalition Against Drug Abuse. Web. Accessed 20th May 2014. Author unknown.
  5. Percocet oral WebMD. Web. Accessed 20th May 2014. Author unknown.