When it comes to managing pain, Percocet and oxycodone are two commonly prescribed medications. While they share similarities, there are distinct differences in their composition, effects, and risks. Understanding these differences can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about pain management and long-term use.
What Are Percocet and Oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a pure opioid analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is available as a standalone medication or in combination with other pain-relieving agents.
Percocet, on the other hand, is a combination medication that includes oxycodone and acetaminophen (Tylenol). The addition of acetaminophen enhances pain relief but also introduces the risk of liver toxicity with prolonged use or high doses.
Key Differences Between Oxycodone and Percocet
| Feature | Oxycodone | Percocet |
| Composition | Pure opioid | Oxycodone + Acetaminophen |
| Strength | Stronger in terms of opioid potency | Less potent but effective due to acetaminophen |
| Uses | Chronic and acute pain management | Short-term pain relief |
| Risk Factors | High risk of addiction and dependence | Liver damage risk with excessive acetaminophen |
| Available Forms | Immediate-release & extended-release | Only available in combination with acetaminophen |
How Do They Work?
Both oxycodone and Percocet work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, reducing the perception of pain. The difference lies in the fact that Percocet combines two mechanisms—oxycodone’s opioid pain relief and acetaminophen’s additional analgesic and fever-reducing properties.
Which Is Stronger: Percocet or Oxycodone?
While 10 mg of oxycodone delivers the full strength of the opioid, 10 mg Percocet also includes 325 mg of acetaminophen, which can enhance pain relief. However, oxycodone alone is considered stronger, as it contains a higher concentration of opioid with no added ingredients.
Medical Uses and Considerations
Oxycodone is typically prescribed for chronic pain conditions, such as post-surgical pain or severe injury recovery. Because of its strength, it is available in extended-release forms like OxyContin, which provides long-lasting pain relief.
Percocet is often prescribed for short-term pain relief, such as after a medical procedure or injury. However, due to the acetaminophen content, it is not recommended for long-term use, as excessive acetaminophen intake can lead to liver damage.
Side Effects and Risks
Both medications share common opioid-related side effects, including:
- Drowsiness and dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Respiratory depression (in high doses)
- Potential for addiction and dependence
Additional Risks of Percocet
- Liver toxicity: Excess acetaminophen can cause liver damage or failure.
- Gastrointestinal issues: Acetaminophen can lead to stomach irritation with prolonged use.
Which Is More Likely to Cause Addiction?
Both Percocet and oxycodone carry a high risk of addiction due to their opioid content. However, oxycodone alone is considered more potent, making it more susceptible to abuse in high doses.
How Long Do They Take to Work?
- Percocet: Begins working within 30-60 minutes, peaks in 1-2 hours, lasts 4-6 hours.
- Oxycodone (Immediate Release): Similar timeline as Percocet.
- OxyContin (Extended Release): Gradual release over 12 hours for prolonged pain relief.
Street Names and Misuse
Unfortunately, both drugs are often misused and sold illegally. Common street names include:
- Percocet: “Percs,” “512s”
- Oxycodone: “Roxies,” “Blues,” “OC”
This widespread misuse contributes to the opioid crisis, with many individuals developing dependencies that lead to heroin or fentanyl use.
Percocet vs. Oxycodone: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between Percocet and oxycodone depends on the severity and duration of pain, patient history, and potential health risks. Percocet is typically preferred for short-term pain management, while oxycodone is used for both short-term and chronic pain conditions.
Seeking Help for Opioid Dependence
Both Percocet and oxycodone can lead to dependence, requiring medical detox for safe discontinuation. The Waismann Method provides medically supervised opioid detox in a hospital setting, ensuring a safe, comfortable withdrawal process without unnecessary suffering.
If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid dependence, don’t wait to get the help you need.
Call Waismann Method Opioid Treatment Specialists today at 1-800-423-2482 for expert medical care and safe, effective detox options. A healthier, safer future can begin with one phone call.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is oxycodone the same as Percocet?
No, oxycodone is a pure opioid analgesic, while Percocet is a combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen.
Is oxycodone hydrochloride the same as Percocet?
No, oxycodone hydrochloride refers to the hydrochloride salt form of oxycodone, used in medications containing only oxycodone. Percocet combines oxycodone with acetaminophen.
Is oxycodone acetaminophen the same as Percocet?
Yes, oxycodone combined with acetaminophen is the generic formulation of Percocet.
Is oxycodone HCl the same as Percocet?
No, oxycodone HCl (hydrochloride) is oxycodone alone, whereas Percocet includes both oxycodone and acetaminophen.
What is stronger, Percocet 10 mg or oxycodone 10 mg?
Both contain 10 mg of oxycodone; however, Percocet also includes acetaminophen, which can enhance pain relief.
What painkiller is the strongest?
Among commonly prescribed opioids, medications like fentanyl and hydromorphone are considered more potent than oxycodone.
What is Percocet called on the street?
Street names for Percocet include “Percs,” “512s,” and “Blue Dynamite.”
Which is stronger, Tylenol 3 or Percocet?
Percocet is generally stronger than Tylenol 3, as oxycodone is more potent than codeine, the opioid in Tylenol 3.
Which is stronger, oxycodone or hydrocodone?
Oxycodone is typically considered more potent than hydrocodone.
Does Percocet make you sleepy?
Yes, drowsiness is a common side effect of Percocet due to its opioid content.
What is stronger than oxycodone?
Fentanyl and hydromorphone are examples of opioids more potent than oxycodone.
What drug is comparable to Percocet?
Vicodin (hydrocodone and acetaminophen) is similar but generally less potent than Percocet.
What is “perc” in slang?
“Perc” is slang for Percocet.
What is the new name for Percocet?
There isn’t a new name; Percocet remains the brand name for oxycodone-acetaminophen combination.
Which is stronger, Norco or Percocet?
Percocet is generally stronger than Norco, as oxycodone is more potent than hydrocodone.
How does oxycodone feel?
Oxycodone can produce pain relief, euphoria, relaxation, and drowsiness.
How much oxycodone is in 10 mg of Percocet?
A 10 mg Percocet tablet contains 10 mg of oxycodone and typically 325 mg of acetaminophen.
Is 10 mg of oxycodone very strong?
A 10 mg dose is considered moderate to strong, depending on individual tolerance and pain level.
How long does Percocet take to kick in?
Percocet typically starts working within 30 minutes, with peak effects around 1 hour.
What does a 5 mg Percocet look like?
Appearance varies by manufacturer, but a 5 mg Percocet tablet often has specific imprints and may be round and white.
Are Percocet and Vicodin the same?
No, Percocet contains oxycodone and acetaminophen; Vicodin contains hydrocodone and acetaminophen.
Is oxycodone the same as OxyContin?
OxyContin is a brand name for the extended-release form of oxycodone.
Is Percocet a hydrocodone or oxycodone?
Percocet contains oxycodone combined with acetaminophen.
What kind of pain is Percocet good for?
Percocet is prescribed for moderate to severe pain, such as post-surgical pain or injury.
Is Percocet stronger than tramadol?
Yes, Percocet is generally stronger than tramadol.
If you have questions about opioid dependence, explore medically assisted detox and individualized treatment options, or call 1-800-423-2482 to speak confidentially with a detox specialist today!
Sources:
- NIH: PERCOCET- oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen tablet
- Camh: Oxycodone is a prescription pain medication like morphine, codeine and methadone.
- CDC: Counterfeit Percocet–Related Overdose Cluster
- MedLinePlus: Oxycodone Information
Written by Clare Waismann, Registered Addiction Specialist (M-RAS), Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor (SUDCC II)
Disclaimer: The content of this article is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or consultation. Despite the contributions from Clare Waismann, M-RAS, SUDCC II, and the expertise of our editorial team, information is subject to change, and readers are encouraged to seek direct expert guidance before acting upon any information provided here.
Opiates.com blog references various sources for its content. Always consult with a healthcare professional regarding any concerns or questions.
