Percocet, an opioid-based drug, is made up of oxycodone and acetaminophen. It is prescribed for moderate to severe pain but has a high potential for abuse.
Is Percocet Addictive?
Yes, Percocet is an addictive drug and is one of the most commonly misused prescription drugs. The addictive properties are attributed to the presence of oxycodone as one of the active ingredients. Oxycodone tricks the brain into a false feeling of euphoria by increasing the “feel-good hormones” such as dopamine and serotonin.
The common observable signs of Percocet addiction are:
- Social awkwardness
- Loss of focus
- Abrupt weight loss
- Excessive exhaustion and lethargy
- Insomnia
- Aggression and mood swings
- Cognitive impairment
The addictive nature of Percocet can lead to an array of risks and it is imperative to seek help if you begin to show signs of addiction.
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Related Topic: Percocet Addiction
How Addictive is Percocet?
Is Percocet addictive at small doses? Yes, it can be. The oxycodone in Percocet has the ability to quickly induce dependency in the person consuming it. If monitored properly, small doses can yield the desired pain relief with minimal side effects. However, prolonged use or the consumption of higher doses, even while following a proper regimen, can bring about an increased risk of dependency and addiction.
Classification
Percocet is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. This classification means that it has a high potential for abuse. It falls in the category of opioid analgesics, which reduce pain by blocking pain signals through the central nervous system and simultaneously induce euphoria and calmness.
Long-Term Percocet Side Effects
Percocet abuse can lead to several undesirable side effects. Side effects may be physical or behavioral, ranging in intensity from mild to severe.
How to Get Off Percocet
It can take anywhere from a few weeks to months to get off Percocet. Self-realization is the first step in any addiction treatment process. Once an addiction is recognized, there are several treatment options, each tailored to the requirements of the patients.
- Detox. The first step of any treatment strategy includes getting rid of any residual drug from the system. Percocet addiction retrains the brain to a different state of reality. Percocet detox results in severe withdrawal symptoms including hallucinations, muscle weakness, fatigue, tremors, and nausea.
- Residential. There are many facilities that provide residential treatment. Patients can stay at Percocet rehab centers to undergo therapy and participate in group activities to improve their overall well-being. Also, at treatment centers, withdrawal symptoms are closely monitored by medical professionals.
- Outpatient. In this case, a patient regularly visits a facility for treatment appointments, but the overall process happens at their own home. Outpatient treatment options are riskier in nature. The patient’s determination and family support play a huge role in this method.
- Dual Diagnosis. Dual Diagnosis refers to when an individual has a substance use disorder and a co-occurring mental health disorder. Both conditions should be treated to increase the chances of a successful recovery.
Percocet Abuse Facts and Statistics
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported that in 2016, approximately 11.1 million people misused prescription opioids. Out of these, approximately 3.7 million people misused oxycodone-based drugs including Percocet.
The main reasons behind prescription misuse were:
- 62.6% wanted to relieve physical pain
- 13.2% wanted to “get high”
- 8.4% wanted to relax
Additionally, people misused prescription drugs for emotional support, insomnia, to experiment and to relieve symptoms of other drugs.
- Prevalence in Men. In 2016, approximately 5 million men reported misusing prescription pain medications. The most likely reason for opioid addiction in men is social pressure.
- Prevalence in Women. In 2016, approximately 4 million women were reported to misuse prescription pain medications. Women are more sensitive to pain and are more likely to abuse painkillers. Also, they possess a stronger tendency to develop a dependency on drugs.
- Teen Abuse. In 2017, approximately 214,000 teens reported abusing painkillers including oxycodone. In a future trend study conducted by the National Institute of Drug Abuse, prescription oxycodone usage fell from 3.6% to 2.3% in 12th graders between 2015 and 2018.
- Senior Abuse. Approximately 7.2% of women aged 65 years or more have been reported to misuse pain medications including oxycodone, as compared to 2.8% of men.
Percocet Abuse & Treatment Trends in South Florida
The Florida Medical Examiners Commission reported that 8,572 people used prescription opioids for non-medical reasons in 2016. It also reported that between 2015 and 2016 there was a steady increase in the number of deaths caused by prescription oxycodone.
The National Forensic Laboratory Information system reported approximately 2.7% of total drug reports were on oxycodone usage.
FAQs About Percocet & Percocet Abuse
If you or a loved one struggle with Percocet addiction, help is available. Contact The Recovery Village Palm Beach at Baptist Health to speak with a representative. Learn how addiction treatment can put you or your loved one on the path to a healthier future, call today.
