Key takeaways
Oxycodone (Roxicodone, Oxaydo) and Percocet (oxycodone/acetaminophen) are both used to treat pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid medications, but they have some key differences. Oxycodone is an opioid that comes in both immediate-release and extended-release forms, while Percocet is a combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen and is only available as an immediate-release medication. This means Percocet also helps relieve pain through the effects of acetaminophen, which stops the production of certain chemicals in your brain. Because Percocet contains acetaminophen, you need to be careful not to take other medications with acetaminophen or alcohol to avoid liver damage. Both medications have a high risk of misuse, dependency, and addiction, and they are controlled substances under the Schedule II category. They also share common side effects like constipation, dizziness, and sleepiness, and both require careful management to avoid withdrawal symptoms. However, Percocet has additional risks related to acetaminophen.
