Both Vicodin and Percocet are prescription pain medications, but they have different ingredients. Learn more about the difference between these two drugs in this post.
What is Vicodin?
Vicodin is a pain reliever that belongs to a class of drugs called opioids. Vicodin is typically prescribed for moderate to severe pain relief. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which blocks pain signals from traveling to the brain. Vicodin is available in tablet form and is usually taken every 4-6 hours as needed for pain relief. Some common side effects of Vicodin include drowsiness, lightheadedness, and nausea. Vicodin can be addictive and should only be used as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
What is Percocet?
Percocet is a prescription medication used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It contains a combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Oxycodone is a narcotic pain reliever. Percocet may be used as needed for pain or on a regular schedule. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Percocet should not be taken for longer than directed.
overdoses of acetaminophen can lead to liver damage. The maximum amount of acetaminophen in 24 hours should not exceed 4000 milligrams. Percocet may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. This medication may be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset. Percocet may cause drowsiness, so do not operate heavy machinery or drive until you know how this medication will affect you. elders may be more sensitive to the side effects of Percocet.
Difference between Vicodin and Percocet
Vicodin and Percocet are two commonly prescribed pain medications. Both Vicodin and Percocet contain the active ingredient acetaminophen, but Vicodin also contains hydrocodone. Hydrocodone is a narcotic pain reliever, while acetaminophen is a non-narcotic pain reliever. Vicodin is typically prescribed for moderate to severe pain, while Percocet is typically prescribed for short-term pain relief. Vicodin is available in tablet form, while Percocet is available in tablet and capsule form. The main difference between Vicodin and Percocet is that Vicodin contains hydrocodone, which makes it a more potent pain medication.
Conclusion
While Vicodin and Percocet are both opioid painkillers, they have different active ingredients. Vicodin is a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen, while Percocet contains oxycodone and acetaminophen. Both medications are effective in treating moderate to severe pain, but some patients may find that one medication works better for them than the other.
If you’re struggling with chronic pain and haven’t found relief from either Vicodin or Percocet, talk to your doctor about trying a different opioid medication. There are many options available, and each person responds differently to different medications.
