Percocet (Oxycodone/Acetaminophen) Medication Information
Looking for reliable Percocet medication information before filling a prescription? This guide explains what Percocet is, what oxycodone and acetaminophen do, prescription uses, dosage considerations, side effects, drug interactions, safety warnings, and important precautions.
Percocet is a prescription pain medication containing oxycodone, an opioid analgesic, and acetaminophen, a non-opioid pain reliever and fever reducer. Current labeling indicates that oxycodone and acetaminophen tablets are intended for pain severe enough to require an opioid analgesic when alternative treatments are inadequate. citeturn0search4
Because oxycodone is an opioid, this medication has important risks involving misuse, addiction, overdose, and potentially life-threatening respiratory depression.
Percocet Medication Overview
Percocet is commonly used as a name for the combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen.
Oxycodone is responsible for the opioid pain-relieving effect, while acetaminophen provides additional analgesic and fever-reducing effects.
The combination is available in different strengths depending on the specific product.
Patients should always follow the exact medication and strength prescribed by their healthcare professional.
What Is Percocet Used For?
Oxycodone and acetaminophen combination products may be prescribed for pain severe enough to require an opioid analgesic when other treatment options are inadequate. citeturn0search4
A healthcare professional should determine whether an opioid medication is appropriate based on:
- The type and severity of pain
- Previous treatments
- Medical history
- Other medications
- Individual risk factors
- Expected duration of treatment
Percocet and Oxycodone/Acetaminophen
Percocet is associated with the combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen.
Patients researching this medication may use search terms such as:
- Percocet medication
- Percocet prescription
- Oxycodone acetaminophen
- Oxycodone acetaminophen prescription
- Percocet pharmacy
- Prescription pain medication
When reviewing a prescription, always confirm the active ingredients and strength shown on the prescription label.
Percocet Prescription Information
Percocet-type oxycodone/acetaminophen medications are prescription medicines.
Before filling a prescription, patients should understand:
- The prescribed strength
- How often the medication should be taken
- How long treatment is expected to continue
- Possible side effects
- Potential drug interactions
- Acetaminophen-related precautions
- Opioid safety precautions
- Prescription refill requirements
Do not change the prescribed amount or frequency without speaking with your healthcare professional.
What to Look for When Choosing a Percocet Pharmacy
When researching a Percocet pharmacy or online pharmacy, consider the following:
Prescription Requirements
Prescription opioid medications should be dispensed according to applicable prescription requirements.
Avoid websites that encourage customers to bypass prescription requirements.
Pharmacy Information
Look for clear information about the pharmacy, prescription procedures, contact information, and medication policies.
Pharmacist Support
A pharmacist can help answer questions about prescription instructions, interactions, side effects, and medication safety.
Medication Information
A pharmacy should provide appropriate medication information and clear directions for prescribed medicines.
Customer Privacy
Prescription-related information is sensitive. Review a pharmacy’s privacy policies before providing personal information.
Percocet Dosage Information
The appropriate dose of oxycodone/acetaminophen depends on factors such as the severity of pain, previous opioid exposure, medical history, and response to treatment.
Different products can contain different amounts of oxycodone and acetaminophen. Current U.S. labeling includes products containing combinations such as 5 mg/325 mg, 7.5 mg/325 mg, and 10 mg/325 mg, although available strengths can vary by manufacturer. citeturn0search3turn0search5
Do not use another person’s prescription or change your prescribed dose.
Percocet Side Effects
Possible side effects associated with oxycodone/acetaminophen include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Sleepiness
- Lightheadedness
More serious effects can occur, including severe sedation and respiratory depression.
Seek emergency medical assistance for severe difficulty breathing, extreme sleepiness, loss of consciousness, or other signs of a serious reaction.
Percocet Safety Information
Oxycodone/acetaminophen has important safety warnings.
Oxycodone is a Schedule II controlled substance and carries risks of addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose, and death. Current labeling includes a boxed warning regarding these risks. citeturn0search4
The medication should be used only as prescribed.
Never share an opioid prescription with another person.
Store prescription medication securely and follow your pharmacist’s instructions for safe storage and disposal.
Percocet and Respiratory Depression
Opioids can cause serious or life-threatening respiratory depression.
The risk can be increased when oxycodone is taken with other medicines or substances that depress the central nervous system.
Seek emergency medical help if someone taking an opioid becomes extremely difficult to wake or develops slow, shallow, or abnormal breathing.
Percocet and Alcohol
Alcohol can increase the sedating and respiratory-depressant effects of opioids.
Avoid combining oxycodone/acetaminophen with alcohol unless specifically instructed otherwise by a healthcare professional.
Percocet and Benzodiazepines
Combining opioids with benzodiazepines can increase the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death.
This is particularly important for patients who also use medications such as:
- Xanax (alprazolam)
- Klonopin (clonazepam)
- Lorazepam
- Diazepam
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you take.
For additional information, review the Medication Interaction Guide.
Percocet Drug Interactions
Oxycodone/acetaminophen can interact with other medications.
Important interaction categories include:
- Benzodiazepines
- Other opioids
- Alcohol
- Other central nervous system depressants
- Certain medicines that affect oxycodone metabolism
- Other medications containing acetaminophen
Always provide your healthcare professional with a complete list of prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, and other substances you use.
Acetaminophen and Liver Safety
Percocet-type combination medications contain acetaminophen.
Taking too much acetaminophen can cause serious liver injury, including acute liver failure.
Current labeling warns that liver injury is associated particularly with acetaminophen doses exceeding 4,000 mg per day and with taking more than one acetaminophen-containing product. citeturn0search4
Check other medications carefully for acetaminophen before taking additional products.
Ask a healthcare professional or pharmacist if you are unsure whether another medication contains acetaminophen.
Percocet and Driving
Oxycodone can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired alertness.
Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
The risk of impairment may be greater when oxycodone is combined with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other sedating substances.
Dependence and Withdrawal
Physical dependence can develop with continued opioid use.
Patients who have been using opioid medication regularly should not abruptly change or discontinue treatment without discussing it with their healthcare professional.
A healthcare professional can determine the appropriate approach to reducing or discontinuing opioid therapy.
Percocet Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction
Oxycodone is an opioid with known risks of abuse, misuse, addiction, and overdose.
Use the medication only according to the prescription.
Never use another person’s prescription, take more than prescribed, or share your medication with another person.
Who Should Discuss Percocet With a Doctor Before Use?
Discuss oxycodone/acetaminophen with your healthcare professional if you have:
- Breathing problems
- Liver disease
- A history of substance use disorder
- Previous reactions to opioids
- Current use of benzodiazepines
- Current use of other sedating medicines
- Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
- Other significant medical conditions
Provide your healthcare professional with a complete medication list before treatment.
How to Fill a Percocet Prescription Online Safely
If you are researching an online pharmacy for Percocet, use caution.
Before submitting a prescription or personal information:
- Confirm that prescription requirements are clearly stated.
- Review the pharmacy’s contact and business information.
- Look for pharmacist support.
- Review medication and privacy information.
- Avoid websites that encourage bypassing prescription requirements.
- Ask a qualified pharmacist about any concerns regarding your prescription.
Percocet Availability
Prescription medication availability can vary by strength, manufacturer, pharmacy inventory, and location.
If your prescribed medication is unavailable, ask the pharmacist about availability and appropriate next steps.
Do not substitute a different strength or medication without professional guidance.
Percocet Prescription Refills
Follow the refill instructions provided with your prescription.
Because opioid medications are subject to specific prescribing and dispensing requirements, refill procedures can vary.
Contact your healthcare professional or pharmacist if you have questions about your prescription.
Why Patients Research Percocet Before Choosing a Pharmacy
Patients commonly research Percocet before filling a prescription because they want to understand:
- What the medication contains
- What it is prescribed for
- Possible side effects
- Drug interactions
- Opioid safety
- Acetaminophen precautions
- Prescription requirements
- Pharmacy availability
- Refill procedures
Understanding these topics can help patients have a more informed discussion with their healthcare professional and pharmacist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Percocet?
Percocet is a name associated with a combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen. It is a prescription opioid pain medication.
What are the active ingredients in Percocet?
The combination contains oxycodone and acetaminophen. The exact amounts depend on the specific product and strength.
Is Percocet a prescription medication?
Yes. Oxycodone/acetaminophen products are prescription medications.
Is Percocet an opioid?
Yes. Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic.
Can Percocet cause drowsiness?
Yes. Oxycodone can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired alertness.
Can Percocet be taken with alcohol?
Alcohol can increase the risks associated with opioid sedation and respiratory depression. Discuss alcohol use with your healthcare professional.
Can Percocet be taken with Xanax or other benzodiazepines?
Combining opioids with benzodiazepines can increase the risk of profound sedation and respiratory depression. This combination should only be used when specifically determined appropriate by a healthcare professional.
Does Percocet contain acetaminophen?
Yes. Oxycodone/acetaminophen combination products contain acetaminophen. Because excessive acetaminophen can cause serious liver injury, patients should avoid accidentally taking multiple acetaminophen-containing products. citeturn0search4
Can Percocet cause dependence?
Yes. Oxycodone can cause physical dependence and carries risks of misuse, addiction, and overdose.
Should I change my Percocet dose myself?
No. Dose changes should be discussed with the prescribing healthcare professional.
Explore More Medication Information
For related medication information, explore:
- Xanax (Alprazolam) Medication Information
- Klonopin (Clonazepam) Medication Information
- Lorazepam (Ativan) Medication Information
- Diazepam (Valium) Medication Information
- Adderall (Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine) Medication Information
- Prescription Medication Guide
- Medication Interaction Guide
Important Percocet Safety Reminder
Oxycodone/acetaminophen is a prescription opioid medication with serious safety considerations.
Use it only as prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. Never share your medication, avoid combining it with alcohol or other sedating substances unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional, and carefully consider the acetaminophen content of any other medications you take.