Percocet Addiction
Percocet is a Schedule II prescription drug. It is an opioid-based cocktail consisting of oxycodone and acetaminophen (one widely recognized acetaminophen is Tylenol).
It is a popular choice among physicians for treating moderate to severe pain, but unlike other prescription opioids, it is not a good candidate for post-surgical treatment due to clotting issues. The acetaminophen component isn’t added for pain relief, but rather as a booster for the effects of oxycodone. Percocet is intended to treat short-term pain, although many prescribing physicians refill patients’ supplies for long periods of time.
Who Abuses Percocet?
Opioids are abused by people from all different backgrounds. From the suburban mom you see at the bus stop with her child every morning, to the very doctor who is prescribing your meds, just about anyone can become dependent on Percocet. That being said, it’s more common in certain individuals – females, youths, and senior citizens are actually the most common abusers of Percocet. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 135,971 people overdosed on opioids in 2010, and 53% were women.
Individuals suffering from a mental health disorder are more likely to engage in substance abuse and become addicted. The National Alliance on Mental Illness notes 53% of people struggling with drug addiction also have at least 1 serious mental health disorder.
Since chronic pain is often a precursor for those who end up abusing opioids like Percocet, people with substantial injuries following work-related or vehicular accidents, those returning from combat, and those with chronic pain, are at increased risk.
How Is Percocet Abused?
While it is certainly widely available, Percocet is most commonly obtained via a prescription rather than purchased from a dealer.Most users swallow the tablet in pill form, but others may resort to crushing and snorting it or dissolving it to prepare it for injection.
What Does Percocet Addiction Look Like?
Initial effects of abusing Percocet include an opioid high, followed by significant drowsiness. Signs and symptoms of a Percocet addiction include:
- Tolerance
- Using the drug to avoid withdrawal
- An inability to cut back on how much you use or to stop altogether
- Continual use even though it is taking a toll on your life
- Removing yourself from activities you used to enjoy or no longer associating with people you once called friends
- Always being preoccupied with making sure you have a decent supply on hand, and never stopping mental preparation for how to get more drugs or where to get them from
- Having trouble with the law due to your Percocet abuse, but that doesn’t deter you from continuing to use
- Losing friends and ruining relationships you used to care about due to your Percocet abuse
- An increase in risky behavior when under the influence, such as stealing, having unprotected sex, or driving recklessly
Withdrawal from Percocet generally sets in within 6 hours of the last use and peaks around 2 to 3 days after that. Symptoms of Percocet withdrawal include:
- Cravings for the drug
- Muscle and bone pain
- Nausea with or without vomiting
- Perspiration
- Uncontrolled muscle twitching
- Dry mouth
- Restlessness
- Trouble sleeping
Risks Involved with Percocet Abuse
The biggest risk that comes with abusing Percocet is overdose. All too often, individuals assume they’re exempt from such. With an “it won’t happen to me” mindset, they habitually misuse or abuse the prescription opioid. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, prescription pain reliever overdoses claim the lives of 46 people every single day in the United States.
Frequently, many people who abuse Percocet are aware that they feel they can’t cope without the drug, but the addiction is far too strong and withdrawal far too uncomfortable to tolerate life without it. Thus, the addiction perpetuates in a vicious cycle, growing stronger. Over time, increased doses are needed to achieve the same high and stave off withdrawal. This is often where many will overdose. If you’re using Percocet, it is vital that you are aware of the signs of overdose. They include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Shallow breathing
- Possibly ceased respiratory function
- Tiny pupils
Getting Help for Percocet Addiction
Professional help should always be sought in cases of Percocet abuse and addiction. Since every person is different, it is important to understand all of the options available for Percocet addiction treatment.
Residential Inpatient: Residential inpatient treatment programs are a vital first step towards a successful, and long lasting, recovery. Often, rehabilitation centers provide a safe space for a controlled detoxification process, paired with behavioral therapy that takes place in both individual and group settings.
Outpatient and Intensive Outpatient: Outpatient and intensive outpatient treatment alone for Percocet can be effective, however, they may not be comprehensive or immersive enough for those dealing with addiction. In most cases, regular outpatient and IOP are necessary stepping stones to managing addiction because they allow clients to take small steps back to their regular lives while also implementing the tools and coping techniques they learned in rehab to maintain sobriety. It is recommended to complete an inpatient residential treatment program before starting outpatient care.
Here at Futures, our caring staff offers therapy, support group services, and more to make sure you’re prepared for a drug-free life when you leave us. Call Futures of Palm Beach today to learn about how we can help you.
