Roxicodone vs. Percocet: What's the Difference?

Roxicodone is a prescription pain reliever that doctors use to treat severe pain. It’s a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic that is highly addictive. It’s a Schedule II substance in the U.S.¹

Doctors usually prescribe Roxicodone when other non-opioid drugs are not effective in managing pain. It works to relieve pain by affecting the central nervous system and is an immediate-release tablet, available in 5 mg, 15 mg, and 30 mg strengths.

Some common side effects of taking Roxicodone include:²

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Drowsiness
• Constipation
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting

This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects caused by Roxicodone. Some people may experience severe side effects like severe stomach pain, hallucinations, mood swings, and unusual tiredness. Taking too much Roxicodone or mixing it with other drugs or alcohol may result in an overdose or other serious, life-threatening side effects.

People who misuse Roxicodone take it in ways that differ from what the doctor prescribed, take someone else’s prescription medication, or only use it to get high (not for medical purposes). Most often, people will:³

• Swallow the tablets orally
• Crush the tablets and dissolve them in water before injecting the liquid into a vein
• Crush the tablets and snort the powder

Misusing Roxicodone in any of the above ways can cause some pleasurable side effects like euphoria and pain relief, but it can also cause many harmful side effects. Examples include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Abdominal pain
• Low blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Chills
• Sweating
• Weakness
• Slow, shallow breathing
• Dry mouth
• Blurry vision
• Chest pain
• Cardiac arrest
• Seizures
• Mood swings
• Anger/irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Brain fog

Other common behavioral signs of Roxicodone addiction and abuse include:

• Being obsessed with getting Roxicodone and using it
• Losing interest in typical hobbies and activities
• Performing poorly or irregularly at work or school
• Having sudden changes in social habits
• Experiencing financial problems
• Showing physical signs of injecting drugs, like bruises or injection marks
• Making appointments with multiple doctors to get prescriptions for Roxicodone

Percocet is a combination medication that contains oxycodone (an opioid pain reliever) and acetaminophen (a non-opioid pain reliever and the active ingredient in Tylenol). It works to change the way your body experiences and responds to pain and reduces fever.⁴

Doctors prescribe Percocet to treat moderate to severe pain, but it’s often diverted for recreational use because it produces feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and pleasure. Some people may use it strictly to get high instead of for medical reasons. Percocet is classified as a Schedule II drug in America, meaning it has a high potential for misuse and addiction.

Some common side effects of taking Percocet include:⁵

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Blurry vision
• Itchy, red eyes
• Dry mouth
• Feelings of extreme happiness or sadness

This is not a complete list of Percocet side effects, and some individuals may experience more severe symptoms or allergic reactions.

People who misuse Percocet may do so by swallowing the tablets, crushing them and snorting the powder, or dissolving the powder in water before injecting it. Since Percocet contains acetaminophen, misusing it regularly can cause severe liver damage.

Since Percocet contains an opioid, people who use it (even for medical purposes) can become dependent on it very quickly. Misusing it can produce feelings of well-being, euphoria, and pleasure, but it also can cause harmful side effects. Common symptoms of Percocet abuse include:⁶

• Constipation
• Confusion
• Headaches
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Difficulties sleeping
• Low blood pressure
• Shallow breathing
• Excessive sweating
• Lack of coordination
• Drowsiness
• Sexual dysfunction
• Anxiety
• Depression

The severity of these side effects may increase with misuse. Meaning, the more often someone abuses Percocet (and the more they take), the more severe the side effects are likely to be.

Other behavioral signs of Percocet addiction may include:

• Seeing multiple doctors to get prescriptions for Percocet
• Being unusually excitable
• “Losing” Percocet prescriptions frequently
• Spending a lot of time trying to get Percocet or using it
• Losing interest in normal hobbies or activities
• Performing poorly at work or school
• Having sudden financial difficulties
• Showing physical signs of injecting drugs (like bruises or track marks)

Percocet addiction is difficult to overcome on your own. If you want to get sober, the best way to do it is with the help of a professional. Look for an accredited and well-rated drug detox center that uses evidence-based treatment methods.

Yes, Roxicodone and Percocet can both cause physical dependence or addiction. Both drugs contain opioids, which are highly addictive and can quickly cause physical dependence, especially if you use them regularly. Roxicodone and Percocet should be used with caution and only under a doctor’s supervision.

If you're comparing Roxicodone vs. Percocet, you're probably wondering what the difference is between the two. Roxicodone and Percocet are two prescription drugs that can help people cope with pain, but they are also likely to be misused. If you are physically dependent or addicted to either of these drugs, you may need professional detox treatment to get sober.

When you’re ready to make a change, the caring addiction treatment professionals at Briarwood Detox Center are available to help. We can help you get through opioid withdrawal with medical and clinical treatment that ensures your safety and comfort. We tailor our medically-assisted opioid detox program to each individual’s unique treatment needs to provide you with the best opportunity for a full recovery.

If you’re struggling with opioid addiction, you are not alone, and help is available now. Please call (866) 710-7710 or contact us online to start your journey to recovery today. We accept most forms of insurance.

References:

1. Roxicodone drug (rxlist.com)
2. Drugs.com
3. Prescription opioids (NIDA)
4. WebMD
5. Drugs.com
6. Percocet addiction (Healthline)
7. Percocet withdrawal symptoms (md-health.com)

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