What is Percocet?

Percocet is a prescription medicine that is commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is a combination of two drugs: oxycodone (a pain reliever) and acetaminophen (a common over-the-counter painkiller). The “10mg/325mg” refers to the amount of each drug in one tablet—10 milligrams (mg) of oxycodone and 325 milligrams (mg) of acetaminophen.

How Does Percocet Work?

• Oxycodone is a strong pain reliever that belongs to a group of drugs called opioids. It works by changing the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain, making you feel less pain.
• Acetaminophen, on the other hand, is a less strong pain reliever. It helps to reduce fever and alleviate pain by acting on the brain to reduce the production of chemicals that cause pain and fever.

Together, these two ingredients provide effective pain relief when used correctly.

How to Take Percocet

Percocet is usually taken by mouth in the form of a tablet. It’s important to follow the exact instructions given by your doctor, including:

• Dosage: Your doctor will tell you how many tablets to take and how often. Never take more than prescribed to avoid serious side effects or overdose.
• Timing: Percocet is typically taken every 4 to 6 hours, but don’t take it more frequently than your doctor recommends.
• With or Without Food: You can take Percocet with or without food, but if it causes stomach upset, try taking it with food.

Side Effects of Percocet

Like all medications, Percocet can cause side effects. Some common side effects include:

• Drowsiness or dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Stomach pain

If you experience any serious side effects like trouble breathing, a slow heartbeat, or extreme drowsiness, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Warnings and Precautions

• Addiction Risk: Oxycodone is an opioid, and opioids carry a risk of addiction, misuse, and overdose. It’s important to take Percocet only as prescribed by your doctor.
• Alcohol and Drug Interactions: Avoid drinking alcohol or taking certain medications while using Percocet. Alcohol can increase the risk of serious side effects like liver damage or even death.
• Liver Health: Since Percocet contains acetaminophen, it is important not to exceed the recommended dose of acetaminophen, as it can cause severe liver damage.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking Percocet, as it may harm your baby.

Important Tips

• Never share your Percocet prescription with others.
• Keep Percocet in a safe place away from children and pets.
• Dispose of unused Percocet properly to prevent misuse.

Conclusion

Percocet 10mg/325mg is a combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen used to treat pain. While it is effective, it is also important to use it carefully to avoid side effects or potential addiction. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and talk to them about any concerns or questions regarding your treatment.