If you’ve ever had a major surgery or injury, it’s likely that you were prescribed the pain medications Vicodin or Percocet. Most people are able to take these medications to help them through recovery and then taper off as their doctor advises. 

However, some develop a dependence or addiction to one of these drugs and continue to take it after their prescription runs out. 

Wondering what the differences are between these two drugs and what you can do if you’ve developed an addiction? Here is more about Vicodin vs Percocet.

Vicodin vs Percocet: What Are They Made Of?

Both Vicodin and Percocet are opioids and are classified as Schedule 2 drugs, meaning they have a high risk of psychological or physical dependence. They work by interfering with the way your central nervous system interprets pain signals sent to your brain. This results in less (or no) pain as well as making everyday activities easier. 

While both drugs contain acetaminophen, Vicodin is enhanced with the opioid hydrocodone while Percocet has a different opioid: oxycodone. Vicodin comes in forms that contain 300 or 325 mg of acetaminophen while Percocet only comes in a form with 325 mg.  

Another difference between the two drugs is how they are available. Vicodin is only available in a generic form while Percocet is available as both a brand name and a generic. 

Vicodin vs Percocet: What Are They Prescribed For?

Both drugs are prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain in either acute or chronic forms. Because of their high rates of addiction, the drugs are usually only prescribed short-term, often after a surgery or injury. 

In some cases, either Vicodin or Percocet can be prescribed for chronic pain caused by arthritis, cancer, or other chronic conditions. 

Side Effects of Vicodin vs Percocet 

Both Vicodin and Percocet can have adverse side effects. While many of the effects are similar—such as nausea and stomach pain—there are subtle differences. Percocet is more likely than Vicodin to cause constipation and other stomach issues while Vicodin is more likely than Percocet to cause fatigue, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness. 

To reduce side effects, those taking Percocet and Vicodin should drink plenty of water, take a stool softener, exercise regularly, and follow their doctor’s instructions for dosage. They should also speak to their doctor about any other prescription or over-the-counter medications or supplements they are taking to avoid dangerous drug interactions. 

Why Are Vicodin and Percocet Abused?

There are several reasons why Percocet and Vicodin are abused. First, they give those who take them calming, euphoric feelings that users enjoy. Second, they take away chronic pain that can be difficult to manage through any other form of medication or treatment. Finally, those who take these drugs can develop tolerances, meaning they need to take more and more to feel the same effects. This can lead to taking more than the prescribed dosage and taking the drugs after a prescription has expired to experience the effects of treating pain. Though both are commonly abused, Percocet tends to have a higher risk of addiction and overdose because it is stronger. 

Getting Help for Vicodin and Percocet Addiction 

Do you think you or a loved one has an addiction to Percocet or Vicodin? If so, it’s important to get help as soon as possible. Depending on how long you’ve been taking opioids and at what dosage, you may experience uncomfortable or even dangerous withdrawal symptoms and it’s vital to be monitored by a medical professional during your recovery. A treatment center that specializes in opioids can offer therapy, counseling, and medications in either an in or outpatient setting to help you address your addiction and get you on the right track.