Percocet (oxycodone and acetaminophen)
Oxycodone is an opioid pain medication. An opioid is sometimes called a narcotic. Acetaminophen is a less potent pain reliever that increases the effects of oxycodone.
Acetaminophen and oxycodone is a combination medicine used to relieve moderate to severe pain.
Acetaminophen and oxycodone may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Oxycodone can slow or stop your breathing. Never use this medicine in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Do not crush, break, or open an extended-release pill. Swallow it whole to avoid exposure to a potentially fatal dose. Narcotic pain medicine may also be habit-forming, even at regular doses. Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it.
MISUSE OF NARCOTIC MEDICATION CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. Oxycodone may cause life-threatening addiction and withdrawal symptoms in a newborn.
Do not take more of this medicine than recommended. An acetaminophen overdose can damage your liver or cause death.
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to acetaminophen (Tylenol) or oxycodone, or if you have recently used alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers, or other narcotic medications. You should not use Xartemis XR if you have severe asthma or breathing problems, or a bowel obstruction called paralytic ileus.
To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
- any type of breathing problem or lung disease;
- liver disease, cirrhosis, or if you drink more than 3 alcoholic beverages per day;
- a history of drug abuse, alcohol addiction, or mental illness;
- diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, or a blockage in your stomach or intestines;
- kidney disease, urination problems;
- low blood pressure, or if you are dehydrated;
- problems with your gallbladder, pancreas, or thyroid; or
- a history of head injury, brain tumor, or seizures;
This medicine is more likely to cause breathing problems in older adults and people who are severely ill, malnourished, or otherwise debilitated.