Percocet

What is it?

• Percocet is a prescription painkiller.

• It is a combination medication containing:

  • Oxycodone (an opioid pain reliever)

  • Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) (a non-opioid pain reliever and fever reducer).

• It is used for moderate to severe pain.

How It Works

• Oxycodone: Binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord → blocks pain signals.

• Acetaminophen: Works in the brain to reduce pain and fever; also boosts the pain-relieving effect of oxycodone.

Medical Uses (Benefits)

• Treats moderate to severe acute pain (after surgery, injury, or dental work).

• More effective than acetaminophen alone.

• Combination helps in lowering the dose of oxycodone (compared to using oxycodone by itself).

Risks & Harms

• Addiction & Dependence – Oxycodone is an opioid with a high risk of misuse.

• Side effects: drowsiness, constipation, nausea, dizziness.

• Liver damage risk – due to acetaminophen overdose (very dangerous if combined with alcohol or other acetaminophen medicines).

• Overdose risk – can cause slowed breathing, unconsciousness, or death if misused.

Conclusion

• Percocet is a strong pain reliever that combines an opioid (oxycodone) with a non-opioid (acetaminophen).