Millions of people take Percocet to ease acute and chronic pain. While most are able to use it safely on a short-term basis, the medication does pose a risk of abuse and addiction.
Are you or a loved one struggling with addiction? Our team is available now to answer your questions, discuss treatment options, and verify your insurance. Take the first step toward healingโcall us today to get started.
What Is Percocet?
Percocet is the brand name of a prescription medication that is typically used to treat moderate to severe pain. The main active ingredients in Percocet are:
- Oxycodone, which is a semisynthetic opioid
- Acetaminophen, which is a non-opioid analgesic (painkiller) that can also reduce fever
Acetaminophen is also present in several over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, but any meds that contain oxycodone are available only by prescription.
Percocet is taken by mouth in tablet form. Tablets come in the following sizes:ย
- 2.5 mg oxycodone /325 mg acetaminophen
- 5 mg oxycodone /325 mg acetaminophen
- 7.5 mg oxycodone /325 mg acetaminophen
- 7.5 mg oxycodone /500 mg acetaminophen
- 10 mg oxycodone /325 mg acetaminophen
- 10 mg oxycodone /650 mg acetaminophen
Is Percocet Safe?
Percocet can be safe and effective when a person uses the medication as directed by their physician. However, anyone who takes it โ even those who adhere to all dosage guidance โ can develop side effects.ย
If a person misuses Percocet, their risk of serious health damage can increase significantly.
Percocet Side Effects
Common side effects of Percocet include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Appetite loss
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Itchiness
- Constipation
More serious adverse effects can include:
- Confusion
- Abnormal heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Low blood sugar
- Low blood platelet count
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Muscle pain
- Abdominal pain
Dangers of Percocet Abuse
People who abuse Percocet may do so for a variety of reasons, including:
- They become dependent on the drug after taking it to treat a legitimate medical concern.
- They attempt to self-medicate by using illicitly acquired Percocet.
- They intentionally misuse it to achieve a recreational high.
Regardless of why a person engages in this dangerous behavior, doing so can have life-threatening repercussions. Negative outcomes that have been linked to the misuse of Percocet and other prescription painkillers include:
- Heart problems
- Damage to the liver and kidneys
- Weakening of the immune system
- Sexual dysfunction
- Disrupted menstruation
- Injuries due to impaired coordination and judgement
- Diminished performance in school or at work
- Being arrested, fined, and/or jailed
- Cognitive difficulties
- Addiction
- Overdose
- Death
Signs of Percocet Overdose
Both acetaminophen and oxycodone can cause serious, potentially irreversible harm if a person exceeds safe dosage levels. Signs of Percocet overdose can include:
- Disorientation
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Faint pulse
- Delayed responsiveness
- Difficulty staying awake
- Loss of consciousness
- Bluish coloration near lips and fingertips
- Skin that is cool or clammy to the touch
If you are with someone who exhibits these types of signs after using Percocet, call 911 immediately and stay with them until help arrives.ย
If you have Narcan, which can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, you should administer it after calling 911. Even if a person is revived with Narcan, they may still be in danger and need to be assessed by a professional.
What Are the Signs of Percocet Addiction?
In the U.S., oxycodone is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance, which is the category for drugs that have โa high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological or physical dependence.โ
If you fear that someone in your life has become addicted to Percocet, keep an eye out for signs such as:
- Using Percocet in greater amounts or for a longer period of time than directed by their doctor
- Trying to buy, borrow, or steal Percocet that was prescribed to someone else
- Exaggerating symptoms and/or visiting several doctors in an attempt to get multiple prescriptions for Percocet
- Using Percocet in circumstances that are especially hazardous, such as by combining it with alcohol or other drugs
- Continuing to use Percocet even after incurring physical or psychological harm as a result of prior use
- Continuing to use Percocet after developing social or relationship problems, such as being arrested or losing friendships, because of their Percocet use
- Neglecting to pay bills, keep appointments, complete assignments, or fulfill other important responsibilitiesย
- Needing to consume more Percocet than they used to in order to experience the drugโs effects (which is also known as developing tolerance)
- Experiencing physical and/or psychological withdrawal symptoms when they try to end or significantly reduce their Percocet use
- Having a persistent desire to stop using Percocet, but being unable to do so
Someone who exhibits these signs may be in crisis, and should consult with their doctor or schedule an assessment with a reputable addiction treatment provider. Opioid use disorder (which is the clinical term for Percocet addiction) is a treatable condition โ but a person canโt get the help they need until they understand the type of problem they have.
How Can I Stop Using Percocet?
Once you have become addicted to Percocet, it can be extremely difficult to stop using it without professional help. Depending on a range of personal factors, you may benefit from one or more of the following options:
- Detoxification: A detox program is a safe, closely supervised environment where trained professionals can help you get through withdrawal safely and with minimal discomfort.
- Residential treatment: Residential rehab features full days of programming, as well as nutritious meals and supervised recreational activities. Since you will live at the center where you are receiving care, you can temporarily escape the stresses and pressures of everyday life, and focus your full attention on your recovery.
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP): At the PHP level, you will usually take part in about five hours of treatment per day, five days per week. In the evenings and on the weekends, you may return to your home or to an alternative supported residence.
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP): Treatment at the IOP level usually involves about three hours of care per day, with patients attending two to five sessions per week. This schedule gives you considerable flexibility as you prepare to transition out of treatment.
- Outpatient program: Outpatient therapy or counseling can be a vital source of long-term support as you work to build a healthier life in recovery.
Find Percocet Addiction Treatment in Athens, Georgia
Serenity Grove is a trusted source of personalized treatment for adults who have become addicted to Percocet and other substances.ย ย
Features of care at our drug rehab in Athens, GA, include detox, residential treatment, and several outpatient programs. We also offer dual diagnosis services for patients whose struggles with addiction are accompanied by anxiety, depression, and other co-occurring mental health concerns.
To learn more about how we can help you or a loved one, or to schedule a free consultation, please visit our Admissions page or call us today.
