Pharmacy and Medications

Darvocet vs percocet

09/12/2007 09:40PM

Question:

What is the main difference between these two? Which is most effective for severe lower back pain? Do they both contain Codine?

Answer:

Thank you for the question.

Both Darvocet® and Percocet® are used for pain. They are both classified as narcotics or opiate analgesics. The main differences between the two are the medications contained in each and what they are used for. Both contain two medications in each pill. Darvocet® contains propoxyphene and acetaminophen (Tylenol®). Percocet® contains oxycodone and acetaminophen. Neither of these contains codeine, but oxycodone is similar to codeine. Patients with allergies to codeine should not take oxycodone or Percocet®. Percocet® is normally used to treat moderate to severe pain. Darvocet® is indicated for mild to moderate pain.

Only your physician can decide which medicine is best for you. Please see your doctor for an evaluation. He or she can determine the risks and benefits of using these medicines with other methods to effectively treat your pain.

Submitted by Meredith Romey, Pharm D Candidate, The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy

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Response by:

Carmen M. Hadley, RPh, CSPI
Clinical Instructor
Central Ohio Poison Center
Nationwide Children’s Hospital
College of Pharmacy
The Ohio State University