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Drug vs. Drug

Endocet vs Percocet: Main Differences and Similarities

pain medication

Key takeaways

  • Endocet and Percocet are both combination medications containing acetaminophen and oxycodone, used to treat moderate to severe pain.

  • The common side effects for both medications include constipation, nausea, and somnolence, and they share the same drug classification, manufacturer, and potential drug interactions.

  • Both drugs are available in the same dosage forms and strengths, and their use involves a significant risk of abuse and dependence due to the opioid component.

  • While both medications can be effective for pain relief, it is critical to consult a doctor for appropriate guidance, especially considering their potential for liver damage at high doses of acetaminophen and the risk of addiction.

Endocet and Percocet are two brand names for the combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone. This combination medication is often prescribed for moderate to severe pain that is not relieved with other therapies.

Acetaminophen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that treats pain and inflammation by decreasing the production of prostaglandins. Oxycodone is an opioid that binds to mu receptors in the brain. This combination produces a strong analgesic effects to relieve pain from injury, surgery, and other conditions.

Endocet

Endocet comes in strengths of 325 mg-2.5 mg, 325 mg-5 mg, 325 mg-7.5 mg, and 325 mg-10 mg of acetaminophen and oxycodone. The usual dose of Endocet is given every 6 hours as needed for pain. Common side effects of Endocet include constipation, nausea, and somnolence.

Percocet

Percocet is available in strengths of 325 mg-2.5 mg, 325 mg-5 mg, 325 mg-7.5 mg, and 325 mg-10 mg of acetaminophen and oxycodone. Percocet can be taken every 6 hours as needed for pain depending on a doctor’s prescription. Common side effects of Percocet include constipation, nausea, and somnolence.

Endocet vs Percocet Side by Side Comparison

Endocet and Percocet are identical medications used for pain. Their features can be found in the table below.

Endocet Percocet
Prescribed For
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Moderate to severe pain
Drug Classification
  • Opioid
  • Opioid
Manufacturer
Common Side Effects
  • Constipation
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Pruritus
  • Lethargy
  • Fatigue
  • Constipation
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Pruritus
  • Lethargy
  • Fatigue
Is there a generic?
Is it covered by insurance?
  • Varies according to your provider
  • Varies according to your provider
Dosage Forms
  • Oral tablet
  • Oral tablet
Average Cash Price
  • $152 for a supply of 100, 2.5 mg capsules
  • $152 for a supply of 100, 2.5 mg capsules
SingleCare Discount Price
Drug Interactions
  • Alcohol
  • SSRI/SNRI antidepressants
  • Triptans
  • CNS depressants (opioids, antihistamines, antipsychotics, antianxiety agents, hypnotics, antiemetics, phenothiazines, tranquilizers)
  • Mixed agonist/antagonist analgesics (butorphanol, nalbuphine, pentazocine, buprenorphine)
  • Anticholinergics
  • MAO inhibitors
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitors (macrolide antibiotics, azole-antifungal agents, protease inhibitors)
  • CYP3A4 inducers (rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin)
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Diuretics
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Beta blockers (propranolol)
  • Lamotrigine
  • Probenecid
  • Alcohol
  • SSRI/SNRI antidepressants
  • Triptans
  • CNS depressants (opioids, antihistamines, antipsychotics, antianxiety agents, hypnotics, antiemetics, phenothiazines, tranquilizers)
  • Mixed agonist/antagonist analgesics (butorphanol, nalbuphine, pentazocine, buprenorphine)
  • Anticholinergics
  • MAO inhibitors
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitors (macrolide antibiotics, azole-antifungal agents, protease inhibitors)
  • CYP3A4 inducers (rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin)
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Diuretics
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Beta blockers (propranolol)
  • Lamotrigine
  • Probenecid
Can I use while planning pregnancy, pregnant, or breastfeeding?
  • Endocet is in Pregnancy Category C. While adverse effects have been reported in animals, not enough research has been performed in humans. Consult a doctor regarding steps to take while planning pregnancy. Endocet is not recommended while breastfeeding
  • Percocet is in Pregnancy Category C. While adverse effects have been reported in animals, not enough research has been performed in humans. Consult a doctor regarding steps to take while planning pregnancy. Percocet is not recommended while breastfeeding.

Summary

Endocet and Percocet contain the same active ingredients, acetaminophen and oxycodone. As a potent opioid combination, Endocet and Percocet can help relieve moderate to severe pain.

Both Endocet and Percocet come in similar dosage forms. They can both be taken multiple times throughout the day as needed for pain. However, the maximum recommended daily dose of acetaminophen is 4000 mg. This is because acetaminophen can cause liver damage at high doses.

Acetaminophen and oxycodone can cause side effects such as constipation and nausea. As a Schedule II drug, this combination also has a high risk for abuse and dependence. Those who abuse acetaminophen and oxycodone report feelings of euphoria which can lead to addiction.

It is important to discuss these medications with a doctor. This information should be reviewed with a doctor to determine the best treatment option for you.