Morg asked
I was prescribed Percocet for 4 abscessed teeth. I went back to the pharmacy to get a refill and was given Endocet. Is this the same medication?
Answer
Yes, Percocet and Endocet are the same drug. Both are 'brand' names for the combination of oxycodone/acetaminophen.
Percocet was the first approved brand name for the combination, receiving approval in 1976 by the FDA. Although the generic is available, the brand name Percocet is still manufactured and available at your pharmacy. It is manufactured by Endo Pharmaceuticals.
Endocet was originally brought on the market as the brand patent for Percocet was expiring. It is what is known as a 'branded generic'. There are multiple definitions of what exactly a 'branded generic' is. It sometimes is a product that is the same molecule as the generic drug, but in a new dosage form. It sometimes is just a generic medication that the manufacturer has decided to give a brand name for more exposure and marketing purposes. That is the case with Endocet.
Endocet is manufactured by PAR pharmaceuticals, which is a actually a division of Endo Pharmaceticals (the manufacturer of Percocet).
As mentioned, both 'Endocet' and 'Percocet' are availability generically as oxycodone/acetaminophen. 'Endocet' is often classified as a generic (even though it has a brand name) and usually comes with a generic copay, depending on the insurance plan.
Perocet, Endocet and oxycodone/acetaminophen products are all available in the same strengths.
