Percocet: An overview
Percocet is a synthetic opioid, used for pain relief, which works using two active ingredients: oxycodone and acetaminophen and belongs to the group of prescription opioids. It is an opioid pain medication which serves to treat moderate health problems with severe pain and fever-associated conditions. However, it is not recommended for long-term use as it may cause serious liver damage and opioid addiction (Percocet addiction) can be developed.[1, 2, 3].
Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Percocet?
Combining alcohol with the opioid drug Percocet is not recommended. This combination may lead to dangerous side effects like extreme dizziness or drowsiness and it can even be deadly. In addition, combining alcohol with Percocet may lead to serious liver injury or even acute liver failure. This is because Percocet contains acetaminophen which can cause oxidative stress and lead to the formation of toxic metabolites[2, 3].
What will happen if I drink alcohol while taking Percocet?
If you drink alcohol while taking Percocet, you might experience a series of adverse side effects. This includes extreme dizziness or drowsiness, impaired coordination, liver damage and also you are increasing the risk of physical or mental dependence on both substances resulting in Percocet addiction and alcohol addiction [2].
What should I do if I drank alcohol while taking Percocet?
In case you have consumed alcohol while on Percocet, monitor your symptoms closely. You might observe some of the serious side effects, in which case contact you might need immediate medical attention.
In the future, it is best to avoid drinking alcohol, and if you have the intention to, always consult with your doctor[2].
Interactions of Percocet
Percocet interacts with other substances as well. For instance, oxycodone, which is one of the active ingredients in Percocet, can interact with CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, CYP£A$ inducers, central nervous system depressants and antidepressants. Additionally, you might interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, opioid analgesics, diuretics and anticholinergic drugs.
Acetaminophen, the other active ingredient in Percocet, interacts with activated charcoal, beta-blockers, lamotrigine, probenecid and zidovudine [3].