The Differences Between Percocet and Hydrocodone
Two of the most-prescribed pain relievers in the U.S. are Percocet and hydrocodone. Both drugs work to help people who have high levels of pain or chronic pain. While Percocet and hydrocodone are utilized for pain relief, there are also differences between the two drugs. Being properly informed as to how both drugs work is vital to avoiding addiction.
The Bottom Line
Percocet and hydrocodone are highly addictive drugs. Taking each medication only as your doctor prescribes and being informed as to how they work can prevent an unexpected addiction.
Why are Percocet and Hydrocodone Prescribed?
Many factors lead to the “why” with doctors prescribing Percocet and hydrocodone. A person’s medical history, pain levels, and diagnoses can contribute to prescriptions for either medication. Both Percocet and hydrocodone help to ease pain levels in the body by inhibiting pain signals in the central nervous system. While both drugs work for 12 hours at a time, they are only intended to be used for a short period of time to prevent the formation of drug tolerance and dependence.
Hydrocodone is blended with acetaminophen and is commonly mixed with other medications as well since it also has cough suppressant properties. Vicodin and Lortab are two common name-brand medications that are made up of hydrocodone and acetaminophen.
Percocet is a completed mix of oxycodone and acetaminophen. Percocet is not mixed with other medications because it does not contain cough suppressant properties.
What Are the Effects of Percocet and Hydrocodone Abuse?
The shared general side effects between Percocet and hydrocodone are the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose:
• Slowed breathing
• Dizziness
• Sedation
• Slowed heart rate
• Confusion
• Death
People who take Percocet and hydrocodone are at risk for becoming addicted. Addiction can lead to challenges in family life, difficulties continuing activities of daily living, and financial and employment strain. Treatment is the answer for those who become addicted.
Article written by Mikayla Nielsen.
What Does Recovery from Percocet or Hydrocodone Look Like?
You can get help for addiction at TelepsychHealth. After detoxing, TelepsychHealth can help guide you towards staying sober. Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) can provide treatment such as:
• Art therapy
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If you are struggling with substance or alcohol use, depression, or anxiety, intensive outpatient may be right for you. Contact us at (888) 730-5220 or contact us to begin the process of healing today!
