Percocet vs. Hydrocodone: What’s The Difference?

Percocet and hydrocodone are both commonly prescribed to people in the United States. People who use either drug are usually trying to deal with post-surgery pain or some type of chronic pain. That doesn’t mean the two drugs are the same, though. Knowing the differences between Percocet vs. hydrocodone can benefit you or a loved one, no matter what you’re taking.

With either drug, there is a path to addiction that can’t be ignored. Therefore, a better understanding of these medications could be just enough to keep you from slipping into an addiction that you never expected to have.

The Uses For Percocet And Hydrocodone

Patients that have a moderate to severe pain diagnosis can get prescriptions for either Percocet or hydrocodone, depending on circumstances such as the patient’s medical history. The drugs block pain signals in the central nervous system, so the patient doesn’t feel as much pain. A very important aspect of legal use is this: both drugs are intended for short-term use only. Both also just work for about 12 hours.

Hydrocodone is mixed with acetaminophen. Common medications made out of hydrocodone and acetaminophen are name brands like Vicodin and Lortab. Hydrocodone mixed medications can also help patients who have a painful cough, as it also works as a cough suppressant.

Percocet is already a completed drug. It’s a mix of oxycodone and acetaminophen. This is where the main difference between Percocet vs hydrocodone starts emerging. Because Percocet has oxycodone instead of hydrocodone, it won’t help patients that have a painful cough.

The Effects Of Percocet Vs Hydrocodone Abuse

One of the main differences between Percocet vs hydrocodone is the side effects.

There are side effects the two drugs have in common. Common Percocet side effects and hydrocodone side effects include the following issues:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Breathing problems

In more severe cases, people taking either drug might experience confusion, increased heart rate, and seizures. Common hydrocodone side effects include constipation and stomach pains. People who struggle with Percocet or hydrocodone abuse may also do lasting damage to their liver.

And of course they are also at great risk of developing an opioid addiction. When people develop an addiction to either drug, they may spend a lot of the time thinking about that the substance. When should they take more? How much more should they take? How can they secure a steady supply of it for the future? As a result of this thinking, they may have multiple prescriptions and bounce around from doctor to doctor, hoping to continue using the substance.

When opioid addiction sets in, life becomes gradually more difficult for the user. Families also begin to suffer, often unsure what to do about the situation. As finances and jobs are threatened, the situation becomes more desperate. At that point, it’s time to think about addiction treatment.

Recovering From Percocet Or Hydrocodone Drug Abuse

If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Percocet or hydrocodone, you can get help. Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville FL can help guide you toward a life of sobriety.

At our facility, we offer treatment programs for people struggling with different kinds of opioid addiction. Moreover, our programs are tailored to you, which can help you learn everything you need to get and stay sober. Some of our programs include:

• Drug Detox
• Inpatient drug rehab
• Fitness therapy
• Mindfulness based treatment
• PTSD and trauma therapy
• Behavioral therapy

It doesn’t matter if you’re struggling with Percocet vs hydrocodone addiction. You always have the choice to live a sober life no matter what your addiction. Call Beaches Recovery at 866.605.0532 to start your journey to sobriety today.