Percocet Addiction Treatment & Recovery in Spokane Valley

Prescription pain medication is helpful, but when abused, it can become an issue. A common example is Percocet, a mixture of the opioid oxycodone with acetaminophen. Doctors commonly prescribe Percocet to treat moderate to severe pain after surgery or an injury. It affects the central nervous system, relieves pain, and sometimes creates feelings of warmth or euphoria.

While the effect of this drug can be helpful in the short term, there is still a question that you might ask. “Is Percocet addictive?” The answer is yes, as per the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Taking regular or large amounts of this drug can develop into both physical and emotional dependence. When not treated early, this will lead to substance use disorder.

What Does Percocet Do?

As a prescribed pain reliever, Percocet contains both oxycodone and acetaminophen. This medication works in two ways:

1. The oxycodone component acts as a potent opioid pain reliever.
2. The acetaminophen element reduces fever and mild pain.

Together, they help relieve post-surgical or chronic pain. However, the same properties that make Percocet effective can also lead to its misuse. When individuals exceed the amount of prescribed Percocet or use it without a prescription, the brain begins to ‘desire’ it. Over time, it becomes a cycle leading to Percocet drug addiction.

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Are Percocets Addictive?

Yes. The opioid in this drug triggers the brain to release an additional amount of dopamine, a chemical associated with pleasure and reward. Even after the pain is gone, individuals still continue taking it. Using Percocet longer than prescribed is one of the major risk factors of Percocet addiction.

Percocet Addiction Signs and Symptoms

The effects of Percocet are very addictive, which is why this drug requires a prescription from a professional. It’s important to recognize Percocet addiction symptoms to get prompt help.

Here are the common signs to watch for.

1. Taking larger amounts or using it for a long time
2. Strong cravings or struggling to stop using it
3. Feeling tired
4. Slow breathing
5. Sudden weight loss
6. Constipation
7. Runny nose, sweating, and trouble sleeping
8. Visiting multiple doctors to obtain more prescription medications
9. Mood changes, poor decision-making, and memory problems
10. Social withdrawal or denial of drug use

Physical symptoms may appear before any noticeable behavioral changes.

Side Effects of Percocet Abuse

Abusing Percocet affects a person’s overall well-being. If this addiction isn’t treated early, it can lead to health problems and relationship issues.

1. Physical Health: Troubled breathing, stomach cramps, liver problems, slowed heart rate, headaches, fatigue, coma, or overdose.
2. Mental health: Increased anxiety, irritability, and depression
3. Daily life: Unemployment, ruined relationships, legal issues, or seclusion

Percocet overdose is a serious medical emergency. Call 911 immediately when you observe signs of difficulty breathing, excessive sleepiness, or unresponsiveness.

Real-Life Examples 

Without Treatment

John had a back injury and was prescribed Percocet to relieve the pain. Initially, he followed the doctor’s prescriptions, but later he started using them more frequently.

After a few months, things got worse because of his addiction. He got fired at work. He even avoided seeing his family members. He struggled with withdrawal symptoms any time he attempted to stop.

With Treatment

The same drug was also prescribed to Sara after her surgery. When she realized that she needed more after the prescribed time, she got professional help.

By undergoing medical detoxification, counseling, and having the support of her loved ones, she gradually gained her strength and got back to her normal life.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms can be unpleasant after stopping long-term use of Percocet. This is one of the most difficult phases of drug addiction. The following symptoms may vary depending on the dosage taken and for how long.

1. Sweating, runny nose, chills, hot flashes
2. Fatigue, muscle aches, and tremors
3. Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
4. Rapid heartbeat
5. Abdominal cramping
6. Goosebumps
7. Insomnia
8. Anxiety, irritability, and restlessness
9. Feelings of hopelessness or depression
10. Suicidal thoughts

The withdrawal effects occur due to the body and brain responding to the drug. To ease the discomfort and minimize health risks, Percocet addiction must be treated by professionals.

What are the Recovery Options?

The path to recovery from any addiction can be challenging. But the right support and professional treatment make it possible to recover and create positive changes in life.

So, what are the effective recovery options to consider? These include the following.:

1. Medical Detox- Reducing use of the medication safely and gradually, with the supervision of medical staff
2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)- Taking medications like buprenorphine or methadone to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms
3. Behavioral Therapy– Learning and implementing new coping skills with the help of counseling
4. Support Groups– Connecting with people in recovery to support each other, sharing encouragement, and building accountability
5. Aftercare Plans– Creating good habits, regularly attending therapies, and practicing relapse prevention

Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. A personalized approach, combining medical and emotional support, works best. With the right support from loved ones and professionals, overcoming drug addiction is achievable.

Expert Tips for Safer Recovery

(This is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice.)

1. Follow the instructions on the prescription pain medicine given by your doctor
2. Store medicines away from children
3. Do not share your prescriptions with anyone
4. Pay attention to early warning signs of drug dependence
5. Discover ways to avoid or reduce stress, such as working out, walking, journaling, and more
6. Stay connected with supportive friends, family members, or groups

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Take the First Step Toward Recovery Today

Percocet is helpful to relieve pain when used as prescribed. But abusing this drug can become a dangerous habit. That is why identifying the signs of Percocet addiction is important. There are recovery options available that can make overcoming Percocet drug addiction easier and possible.

Addiction doesn’t have to define your story. All you need are the people who support you and professional treatment to guide your recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with Percocet drug addiction, reach out for help from We Level Up Washington today.

Summary

Call today to speak with our team and learn more about our programs. We Level Up Washington: (509) 348-4077. Your next step starts here.