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Percodan
combines two pain-killing drugs: the opiod oxycodon and acetylsalicylic acid
(commonly known as Aspirin). Oxycodone
binds to the pain receptors in the brain so that the sensation of pain is
reduced, while acetylsalicylic acid halts the production prostiglandins which
otherwise cause pain.
Classified
by the US government as a Schedule II narcotic – meaning that it has a high
risk of dependence, Percodan is normally prescribed for relief of short-term
pain but may have other accepted medical uses.
Other trade
names for Percodan include: Endodan, Percodan-Demi and Roxiprin
Percodan Side Effects
Percodan
can cause severe side effects such as: allergy; black, bloody or tarry stools;
shallow breathing; slowed or rapid heartbeat; unconsciousness; confusion;
hallucinations; frequent bruising or bleeding; urination difficulty or
dependence.
Less
serious side effects include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, heartburn,
nausea, vomiting, sweating, ears ringing or dry mouth or changes in mood.
Many of the
above side effects are caused by the mixture of acetylsalicylic acid with oxycodone,
which combines the side effects either drug could cause.
Signs of Overdose
Overdose
symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, ringing in the ears, contracted
pupils, confusion, cold and clammy skin, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting,
weak pulse, shallow breathing or unconsciousness.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Percodan is
classified by the DEA as highly addictive, thus when one ceases use of
Percodan, he is likely to experience withdrawal symptoms. These can include: rebound of pain,
restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, cold
flashes, involuntary muscle spasms, tremors, seizures, rapid breathing, heart
palpitations, loss of appetite, depression, exhaustion or delusion.
One
attempting to get off Percodan alone may have a hard time of it. If you or a loved one needs help, contact us
today.
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