What Is Percodan?

Percodan is a pain relief medication prescribed to patients experiencing moderate to severe pain. Technically, it is a combination medication because it contains more than one type of pain reliever. Percodan consists of oxycodone, which changes the way the body interprets pain, and aspirin, which reduces pain and swelling. Oxycodone is classified as an opioid analgesic while aspirin is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Taking Percodan may cause certain side effects in some patients. More common side effects of Percodan, which do not require medical attention, include nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, increased sweating, dry mouth, lightheadedness, and weakness. These should all disappear with time. If they do not go away or worsen, let your doctor or pharmacist know.

Serious side effects of Percodan are rare. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience the following serious side effects of Percodan: slow or irregular heartbeat, mood changes, agitation, hallucinations, depression, confusion, difficulty urinating, ringing in the ears, decreased hearing, vision changes, easy bruising or bleeding, stomach or abdominal pain, black stools, vomit resembling coffee grounds, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, persistent nausea, signs of kidney problems, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness, and weight loss.

Seek medical attention as soon as possible if you experience any of these severe side effects after taking Percodan: slow or shallow breathing, fainting, seizures, severe drowsiness, difficulty waking up, or signs of an allergic reaction such as rashes, itching or swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.

How Is Percodan Used?

Percodan should only be taken as directed by your doctor. It should be taken orally with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking a dose of Percodan. Your doctor may suggest Percodan as needed for shorter periods of pain or on a regular schedule for ongoing pain.

Make sure you take Percodan at the first sign of pain. If you wait until the pain has gotten worse, Percodan may not be as effective.

Remember, your Percodan dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase or decrease your Percodan dose without your doctor’s permission.

Percodan Addiction

Patients using Percodan responsibly may develop a Percodan addiction or dependence. If you begin to think someone in your life has started misusing Percodan, seek professional help immediately. Signs of Percodan addiction may include becoming obsessed with finding and taking Percodan, losing interest in the hobbies or activities you once enjoyed, performing poorly at work or school, and suffering financial losses due to money spent on Percodan.

The Importance of Aftercare

Aftercare is an important part of ongoing treatment, as anyone who has been diagnosed with a substance use disorder has a chance for recurrence of use. It is highly recommended that you find an aftercare program to support your psychological needs after the initial treatment to greatly minimize the risk for temptation.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, seek help today.

Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.