As a rehab center in Pennsylvania, we know that people often wonder how prescription drugs are different from one another. Because these two drugs are often abused, we’re sharing the differences between Roxicodone and Percocet as well as their dangerous side effects. 

What Is Roxicodone?

Roxicodone is the brand name for oxycodone hydrochloride, which is an opioid analgesic that’s normally used to treat moderate to severe pain. As an opioid analgesic or narcotic, Roxicodone works by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the central nervous system. They basically tell your brain that you don’t feel any pain. Like other opioids, Roxicodone is known for its addictive properties and a high potential for abuse. Not only do users experience pain relief when using opioids, but a high dose of these drugs can also produce feelings of euphoria and pleasure. It’s these side effects that cause people to abuse these drugs, resulting in addiction. 

When abused, Roxicodone can produce uncomfortable psychological and physical symptoms. Some common side effects of Roxicodone include: 

• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain and bloating
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Loss of appetite
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Dry mouth 
• Sweating 
• Rash and itching

This medication should only be taken if and as prescribed to you by your doctor. When high doses of Roxicodone are taken, the person may experience more severe side effects like agitation, confusion, disorientation, hallucinations, and respiratory depression. However, the most common side effect of Roxicodone abuse is addiction. Addiction is a chronic disease that requires comprehensive and professional treatment. At Clearbrook Pennsylvania, we offer a medical detox that helps patients wean off of drugs and mitigates withdrawal symptoms. This is a crucial first step in the recovery process for people who suffer from severe drug or alcohol addictions. 

What Is Percocet?

Percocet is a medication made up of oxycodone and acetaminophen that’s used to alleviate pain and reduce fever. Because it contains an opioid, oxycodone, Percocet works like Roxicodone by attaching to opioid receptors in the central nervous system. Not only can it block pain signals from the body to the brain, but it can also produce feelings of euphoria, sleepiness, and pleasure in users, which can be very addictive. 

Percocet is also commonly abused for the side effects it produces. Some of the most common side effects of Percocet include: 

• Stomach pains
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sleepiness 
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Excessive sweating
• Dry mouth 
• Headache

When abused, not only can Percocet cause a chemical imbalance in the brain, but it can also cause respiratory depression, apnea, circulatory depression, and shock. Percocet is known for both its addictive nature and its effects on the respiratory system. Abusing this drug increases a person’s likelihood of developing respiratory-related diseases and overdosing. 

At Clearbrook Treatment Centers Pennsylvania, we also offer prescription drug treatment that’s centered on treating the aspects of addictions to drugs like Percocet and Roxicodone. Our treatment can help you or a loved one get sober. 

What Is The Difference Between Roxicodone & Percocet?

The difference between Percocet and Roxicodone is that Percocet contains acetaminophen, which increases the effects of oxycodone. Although Percocet may be a more effective form of pain treatment for individuals who didn’t find relief with oxycodone, or Roxicodone, it can be more dangerous. As an opioid, oxycodone relaxes the central nervous system and affects levels of chemicals like dopamine, which play a role in functions like breathing. Percocet is stronger than Roxicodone because it contains both acetaminophen and oxycodone. Because acetaminophen increases the effects of oxycodone, misusing or abusing Percocet increases a person’s chances of experiencing breathing problems or experiencing an opioid overdose. Developing an addiction is also more likely. 

Whether you’re comparing Percocet vs Roxicodone or any other prescription drugs, remember that these medications are not entirely safe just because they’re prescribed to you. Many if not all medications have a potential for abuse that can quickly lead to dependence. If you or someone you know has developed a substance abuse disorder, call us now at 570-536-9621 to learn more about our levels of care.