How Does Percocet Work to Relieve Pain?

Percocet is a strong pain-relieving medication. It works differently than ibuprofen, aspirin and other similar painkillers do. Those painkillers work at the pain's site, where Percocet does not. Here we will explore how Percocet works to relieve pain so that you can better understand this medication and why it is an effective pain reliever.

How Does Percocet Work?

First, you swallow the pill or liquid and your body absorbs it. The medication travels to the central nervous system and brain where it then binds to nerve endings - or receptors - that seek painkilling and pleasure-enhancing neurotransmitters. Once the brain gets the message from the medicine in its receptors, you will experience relief from your pain. Now, whatever is causing your pain - such as a broken bone or cancer - are still present, but the sensation of pain has subsided.

How Long Does it Take to Work and How Long Does it Last?

For most patients, it takes about 15 to 30 minutes to start noticing relief from their pain. Maximum pain relief is experienced in about one hour. Percocet will continue to relieve your pain for three to six hours.

How Does Percocet Cause Side Effects?

The side effects are caused the same way pain relief is caused. It is all related to the receptors. You are more likely to experience side effects when you first start taking this medication. As your body gets used to it, the side effects become less noticeable and in most cases, go away completely. Things like nausea and sleepiness are very common when you first start to take this medication.

Chronic Pain

Percocet can be prescribed for chronic pain, such as the pain related to cancer or chronic musculoskeletal pain. Eventually, after you are taking the same dose for a while you will build up a tolerance for it and will need a stronger dose to effectively treat your pain. Your doctor will work with you on this to make sure that your dose is always where it needs to be. This is why it is extremely important to never take more than prescribed.

On the other hand, if your pain improves, your doctor will work with you to taper your dose down. By tapering, this will help you avoid withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms are possible if you abruptly stop taking this medication without tapering, especially if you have taken it for a prolonged period of time.

Resources

WebMD: Percocet Oral