Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: oxycodone and acetaminophen
BRAND NAMES: Percocet, Roxicet, Tylox, Endocet
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Oxycodone is a narcotic analgesic (pain-reliever) and a cough suppressant that is similar to codeine and hydrocodone. The precise mechanism of pain relief by oxycodone
and other narcotics is not known. Acetaminophen is a non-narcotic analgesic and
antipyretic (fever reducer). Acetaminophen relieves pain by
elevating the pain threshold. It reduces fever through its action on the heat-regulating center of the brain. The combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen achieves greater pain relief than either taken separately. For more information on acetaminophen, please see acetaminophen (Tylenol).
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablet: 5mg oxycodone/325mg acetaminophen;
Capsule: 5mg oxycodone/500mg acetaminophen; Solution: 5mg
oxycodone/325mg acetaminophen per teaspoonful.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature, sealed, light-
resistant container.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Oxycodone & acetaminophen is
prescribed for the relief of moderate to moderately severe pain.
DOSING: The dose of oxycodone & acetaminophen is
variable and depends on the needs of the patient and specific
circumstances.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Oxycodone, like other narcotic pain-relievers, can exaggerate the effects of other medications and drugs
that slow the brain's processes, such as alcohol, barbiturates,
and benzodiazepines (e.g. lorazepam, Ativan).
PREGNANCY: There is very little information about the
effects on the fetus of oxycodone & acetaminophen given to pregnant women. Physicians may elect to use it if its benefits are deemed to outweigh potential risks.
NURSING MOTHERS: Small
amounts of oxycodone are secreted in breast milk and may cause side effects in the newborn.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequent adverse reactions of
oxycodone & acetaminophen include lightheadedness, dizziness, sedation,
nausea, and vomiting. Other side effects include drowsiness, constipation,
and spasm of the ureter, which can lead to difficulty in urinating.
Oxycodone can depress breathing and, therefore, is used with
caution in elderly, debilitated patients and in patients with serious lung disease. Oxycodone can impair thinking and the physical abilities required for driving or operating machinery. Oxycodone can be habit-forming. Mental and physical dependence can occur but are unlikely when used for short-term pain relief.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 12/31/1997
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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