Percocet Addiction, Abuse, And Treatment

Percocet Defined

Percocet is a prescription Painkiller that contains a combination of Oxycodone (a semi-Synthetic Opiate) and Acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol); abuse of the substance can result in Percocet addiction. Percocet provides relief for moderate to severe pain and lasts up to 3 to 5 hours depending on the formulation. OxyContin, another Oxycodone-based painkiller, can provide relief for up to 12 hours due to its time-release properties.

Percocet Abuse And Addiction

Percocet is a strong Painkiller most often prescribed for intense, short-term pain felt after surgery or trauma. It is also sometimes used for patients with severe chronic pain. Percocet is often seen as a safer way to get high because it is legal to purchase (it is available with a prescription).

However, Percocet is still widely abused for its Narcotic effect. A high enough dose can result in a sense of euphoria similar to that experienced by Heroin users. Abuse of Percocet can lead to Percocet addiction.

Effects Of A Percocet Addiction

Because Percocet is usually prescribed on a short-term basis, an addicted person may eventually resort to illegal means to feed their habit. An addiction to Percocet can result in risky behavior, including:

• Seeking out drug dealers
• Using a fake prescription
• Stealing
• Seeing multiple doctors

Because of the Oxycodone in Percocet, there are numerous potential side effects tied to abuse of the drug. The most commonly recorded physical side effects of Percocet addiction include:

• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Memory loss
• Dizziness

Percocet Statistics

Percocet Treatment

As with any Opiate addiction, treating a Percocet addiction can be difficult. But there are many options available. Percocet rehabilitation is similar to that for other prescription Opiates, such as OxyContin or Morphine.

Featured Centers Offering Treatment for Percocet Addiction

The detox is often the most physically difficult step in the process, as withdrawal symptoms from Percocet can be intense. Many recovering addicts cite muscle aches and insomnia as the most difficult symptoms they face. Undergoing detox with a medical professional can help ease the process. Pharmaceutical aids such as Clonidine and Buprenorphine may be used in conjunction with therapy to help wean an addict off of Percocet.

Once a former addict is ready to reintegrate into society, they can find continuing support groups through outpatient treatment at one of the many successful treatment centers across the country.

Take control of your health. There’s never been a better time to get started. Contact treatment provider now for more information about rehab for a Percocet addiction.