|  | Conditions Treatments | Pain Management

Information on the Medication Percodan

Percodan is prescribed when a person is in moderate to severe pain. A combination of the drug oxycodone and aspirin, Percodan is a strong narcotic with opium-like qualities. When it contains aspirin, the brand name is Percodan or Endodon. It is known as Percoset when it contains acetaminophen.

  1. Description

    • Percodan contains a combination of oxycodone (4.8 mg) and aspirin (325 mg). Oxycodone relieves pain by acting on the part of the brain that controls the central nervous system. Aspirin reduces pain, fever and inflammation.

    Dependency

    • For some, oxycodone can become physically or mentally addictive if misused or taken for a long time, so a doctor must monitor its use. When oxycodone is used only for relieving pain, it is not likely to become addictive. If, however, it is taken to produce euphoria, relaxation or to reduce anxiety, a person can become dependent.

    Side Effects, Allergy

    • Common side effects are sleepiness, dizziness or feeling lightheaded when standing up suddenly. Others are nausea, constipation, headache, depression and weight gain. A skin rash, hives, itching, trouble breathing or swallowing or swelling of the hands, face or throat can signal an allergy. In severe cases, these can result in anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.

    Precautions

    • Percodan is not recommended for geriatric patients, pregnant women or people with certain allergies. This medication should not be used by children or teenagers because of a possible link between aspirin and Reye's Syndrome.

    Warnings

    • Do not drink alcohol while taking Percodan, and keep it in a safe place, away from children or pets.

Pain Management - Related Articles