Vicodin and Percocet are equally effective at managing pain.
As opioids, they have the same side effects and risk for addiction, dependence, and misuse.
However, they differ in some ways, such as the active opioid drugs in the medication.
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Vicodin contains hydrocodone, while Percocet containsoxycodone.
The brand name Vicodin has been discontinued and is no longer available on the market.
This risk can occur even at recommended doses.
The table below provides a quick glance at the similarities and differences between them.
How Do They Work?
Vicodin and Percocet are combination pain-relieving medicines.
Vicodin has hydrocodone, while Percocet has oxycodone.
Opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone work by targeting the opiate receptors in the brain and spinal cord.
This changes how your brain and peripheral nervous system respond to pain, providing relief.
Acetaminophen, also an analgesic, works to enhance the opioid’s pain-relieving capabilities.
Which Works Better for Pain?
The study included 220 people and assessed pain following an emergency department visit.
According to the results, both medications reduced pain scores by half.
The results showed that hydrocodone is more effective in managing burn-induced pain than oxycodone.
However, this study was conducted in rodents.
Therefore, these results may not translate to humans.
Liquid formulations are beneficial for those who have difficulty swallowing or use G-tubes.
There are also differences in the amount of acetaminophen between the two.
Vicodin and Percocet should be prescribed only by healthcare professionals.
Start with the lowest effective dose and try taking it as prescribed for the shortest possible duration.
For Vicodin, the amount of acetaminophen in it may vary depending on the formula.
The following table shows the dosing strengths and maximum dosage for adults.
Percocet is available in the following dosing combinations for use in adults.
Do not abruptly discontinue Vicodin or Percocet in people who may be physically dependent on opioids.
In case of a suspectedoverdoseor severe adverse effects, immediatelygive naloxone as an antidote.
Naloxone reduces the effects of the opioids in the body.
Naloxone Use
Naloxone is an FDA-approved medicine used to treat an opioid overdose.
It can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose temporarily.
It works by blocking the effects of opioids, which can help prevent fatal adverse effects.
Naloxone is available in different dosage forms, such as nasal spray, injectable, and auto-injector.
It is also available under the brand names Narcan and RiVive and as a generic medicine.
Anybody can use it in case of a suspected overdose.
Some common side effects include:
Call your healthcare provider if you have these symptoms or if they worsen.
In some cases, opioids can cause more severe side effects.
Call for immediate medical help if you have any of the following symptoms.
When to Call 911
Opioid overdose can be life-threatening if immediate medical care is not provided.
Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and nonprescription drugs you take to avoid any side effects.
Who Should Not Take Opioids?
These drugs can also pass into breast milk and may harm the baby.
Carefully observe infants for any adverse effects.
Seek immediate medical care if you notice these signs.
Do not stop taking these medicines without asking your healthcare provider.
It may cause severe withdrawal effects.
Your healthcare provider will slowly reduce the dose to stop it gradually within a few weeks.
Summary
Vicodin and Percocet are potent opioids used for pain relief.
They work by targeting opioid receptors in the CNS to reduce the sensation of pain.
However, like other opioids, they can cause dependence and addiction.
Always use as prescribed and immediately call a healthcare provider in case of an overdose.
It is also helpful to keep naloxone on hand to use in case of an emergency.
DailyMed.Label: Percocet- oxycodone hydrochloride and acetaminophen tablet.
DailyMed.Label: Hydrocodone bitartrate acetaminophen tablet.
MedlinePlus.Opiate and opioid withdrawal.
Miner J, ed.Academic Emergency Medicine.2015;22(11):1254-1260. doi:org/10.1093/pm/pnx050
DailyMed.Label: hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen solution.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.Opioid overdose.
