Signs of Percocet Addiction

What is Percocet?

Percocet is made from oxycodone and acetaminophen, a combination that is used to relieve chronic or severe pain in individuals who have otherwise found other pain relievers ineffective. Acetaminophen on its own is commonly used as a moderate pain reliever and fever reducer.

It is not known to be habit-forming on its own. However, it can have negative side effects when taken in large quantities, including acetaminophen poisoning, liver damage, and other effects. Oxycodone is a narcotic analgesic that is used for treating severe physical pain.

This drug primarily affects the central nervous system (CNS) by acting on opioid receptors located in the areas of the brain responsible for pain management. This can create a pleasant and euphoric feeling, which may lead to Oxycodone abuse or addiction and cause the signs of Percocet addiction to occur.

Like with other addictive substances, abusing Percocet or taking this drug over a long period of time can cause users to form a chemical dependency on it. It is for this reason that many doctors will not prescribe Percocet to those with a prior substance abuse history or otherwise at an increased risk of developing a substance use disorder.

Keep reading to learn how to identify the signs that Percocet may be an issue for you or a loved one, and how to find effective forms of treatment with the help of this guide!

Understanding Percocet Abuse and Addiction

When someone is prescribed Percocet, this may allow them to be able to function normally throughout their day-to-day life, without having to deal with crippling pain. However, they may also be tempted to misuse this medication, which can have negative effects, physical symptoms, and long-last consequences.

Like with other substance use disorders, Percocet dependence will require professional treatment to successfully overcome. This is because an opioid use disorder can be particularly difficult, and even dangerous to recover from if not done properly.

For starters, the addicted individual will likely experience withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings when attempting to stop consuming Percocet. This is because his or her abuse of the substance has caused their body to become dependent upon the drug. Fortunately, there are many treatment options to help you overcome your drug abuse and achieve a healthier, sober lifestyle.

Addiction Causes and Risk Factors

Anyone is capable of developing a substance use disorder, and this includes Oxycodone addiction with the need for a Percocet rehab program. With that being said, there are certain risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing substance use disorders.

Some of these factors include having a family history of substance abuse and addiction, having a pre-existing mental illness, gender, having an unstable work, school, or home environment, and others.

Percocet Addiction Signs, Symptoms and Side Effects

When it comes to substance abuse, Percocet addiction has many signs, symptoms, effects, and consequences that can be looked out for. As seen in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), some of the most common behavioral symptoms of Percocet abuse include:

• Trying to steal Percocet or get an illegal or fraudulent prescription for this medication.
• Attempting to borrow or steal money.
• Taking Percocet in higher doses or for longer than originally prescribed.
• Withdrawing from social activities and previously enjoyable hobbies.
• Being unsuccessful when reducing one’s Percocet use.
• Continuing to abuse Percocet despite this having negative side effects.

Side Effects of Percocet Addiction

Abusing Percocet can have several symptoms, signs, and side effects. Many of these side effects can be extremely uncomfortable and can cause life-long complications if not properly addressed. Percocet cognitive symptoms and physical side effects include:

• Significant weight loss
• Slurred speech
• Slow heart rate
• Difficulty sleeping
• Trouble breathing
• Poor coordination
• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Poor decision-making
• Inability to concentrate
• Memory problems
• Poor judgment

Psychosocial symptoms experienced when abusing Percocet may include:

• Mood swings
• Anger
• Agitation
• Aggression
• Anxiety

Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms

Two of the biggest indicators of a Percocet addiction are withdrawal and overdose. If someone has been abusing Percocet for a long time and suddenly decides to reduce or stop their use of this drug, they will likely develop painful Percocet withdrawal symptoms.

Knowing how long Percocet stays in your system can help, but it won’t make the effects of withdrawal any easier.  This is a major reason why independent recovery from opioid addiction is so difficult. Someone who is experiencing Percocet withdrawal may develop the following symptoms:

• Watery eyes
• Twitches and tremors
• Runny nose
• Dilated pupils
• Percocet cravings
• Insomnia
• Excessive sweating
• High body temperature
• Dysphoria
• Diarrhea

Percocet Overdose: Signs and Symptoms

Along with withdrawal, overdose is another common symptom of a Percocet use disorder. For those struggling with opioid abuse, a Percocet addiction may cause them to increase their dose of the drug in order to get a stronger or longer-lasting high.

Because of how potent these drugs are, opioid-related deaths have increased significantly in recent years. In light of these numbers, it is important to know how to recognize Percocet overdose effects and symptoms. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of a Percocet overdose include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Slowed heart rate
• Memory loss
• Stomach cramping
• Unconsciousness
• Labored breathing
• Coma

If you or anyone else is experiencing any of these symptoms after taking Percocet, it is important to seek out emergency medical assistance immediately. If an overdose is not properly treated, it can become fatal.

Common Percocet Treament Options

The two most common forms of addiction treatment for oxycodone and acetaminophen (the two active ingredients of Percocet) are inpatient or residential rehab and outpatient or IOP programs.

With inpatient treatment, individuals will be able to receive constant support from licensed clinical professionals and will be able to follow a more individualized treatment process that is specifically catered to their recovery needs. These facilities provide a highly structured and supportive environment to receive treatment in, which can be necessary for those recovering from more severe addictions or co-occurring disorders.

For those who have certain financial or time constraints, an IOP (intensive outpatient program) may be a better option for them. These programs will offer sober support groups, as well as recovery tools and resources to their clients, while still allowing them to fulfill their usual day-to-day obligations.

If you are unsure what treatment programs will be best suited to your needs, speaking with the Find Addiction Rehabs specialists today can help you discuss all of your options and find out which recovery services can best support you.

FAQs on the Signs of Percocet Addiction

How is Percocet Addiction Treated?

There are many treatment programs available to help those struggling with Percocet addiction, each of which maintains its own treatment methods and recovery approach. For most people struggling with an opioid use disorder, their treatment process will begin with medical detox.

This process helps gradually wean them off of Percocet, which can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings. Once this process has been completed, most individuals will move on to other levels of care, such as inpatient or outpatient rehab programs.

Is Rehab for Percocet Covered By Insurance?

Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most insurance providers are required to offer their clients the same level of coverage for addiction and mental health treatment services that would be offered for other medical conditions.

While the exact services that may be covered through your insurance provider may vary based on your specific policy and treatment needs, healthcare plans will generally cover these services:

• Inpatient and residential rehab
• Outpatient treatment
• Medication-assisted treatment
• Mental health treatment
• Dual diagnosis treatment

Find Percocet Treatment Programs Today!

If you are abusing Percocet and want to stop using this medication for good, help is available. The Find Addiction Rehabs hotline is available 24/7 to answer all of your recovery questions and help you find effective and affordable addiction treatment programs nationwide. The only person who can make the choice to get clean is you.

So make the right decision and call now, and we will help you get started on your path to sobriety, today!

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