The National Institute on Drug Abuse offers some interesting statistics on prescription drug abuse. They state that:
Percocet is among the most common drugs that are abused regularly; sometimes without people’s knowledge. Whether a person is using it recreationally or because it was prescribed to them, long-term use of this drug is very dangerous. We want to help make people aware of the risks involved with abusing it and to help them find the proper treatment in Idaho.
Percocet is a prescription opioid painkiller that is commonly prescribed to treat various types of pain. It contains both acetaminophen and oxycodone, which can make it more effective at treating discomfort. It is the oxycodone in this medication that causes people to abuse it.
Percocet is very similar to heroin or morphine, and it can create a euphoric high even in prescribed doses. It should only ever be prescribed on a short-term basis, but sadly, there are doctors who keep their patients on it for years. This is less common today due to the opioid epidemic, but it does still happen in Idaho.
Percocet works by altering how the brain perceives pain because of its effects on the central nervous system. It attaches to opioid receptors in the body, which is what results in pain relief and euphoria.
Often used for post-op or an injury, Percocet works by affecting the central nervous system to alter how the brain perceives pain. Percocet's useful function, however, is also what causes people to abuse it and become addicted to it. Here's what you should know about this medication whether it's Percocet 5/325, Percocet 10, or other dosages.
What makes percoset so addictive? It starts with how quickly one becomes dependent on the highly addictive opioid ingredient, oxycodone. If a heroin addict can't find heroin, they will seek out oxycodone as a replacement. Percocet does what all opioids do, they activate the reward center in the brain which is how someone becomes addicted. It's the feeling that the brain comes to depend on. The longer a person takes it, the higher Percocet dosage one has to use.
Percocet is also known as “white collar heroin” as it's legal but just as addictive as the opiate street version. When people abuse Percocet, they will often combine other narcotics to get a greater high. This is known as drug synergy and it boosts the analgesic properties of Percocet. When it's abused in this way, it offers a very similar effect to heroin. The oxycodone in Percocet is time released so it's challenging for users to obtain the high they're looking for. This results in a heavy Percocet dosage at one time which leads to abuse, and then to addiction.
Addicts may snort percs or inject it in order to get it directly into their blood. It doesn't take many pills to overdose on the acetaminophen in Percocet even if they've developed a tolerance for oxycodone. This can cause liver damage or the person can easily overdose. Once someone is abusing Percocet regularly, they are probably going to need professional care to recover.
Percocet has quite a few possible side effects which can help you identify whether someone you know is abusing Percocet. Daily long-term use of perk pills can start to deteriorate the mind and body so you may notice these signs indicating Percocet addiction;
Abuse of perk pills can physically damage the body which can include liver failure. This is due to too much consumption of the accompanying drug in Percs, acetaminophen.
Even when you know the signs and symptoms of Percocet addiction, you may still not be certain. There are online addiction quizzes that can help you find out for sure.
NIDA has presented some eye-opening statistics regarding the state of the opioid crisis in Idaho:
Idaho has put several measures in place to reduce these numbers. New programs have been funded and people have better access to treatment now than ever before. But the opioid crisis remains an ongoing fight.
Urban culture is a good indication of what's trending and sadly this can be seen in songs about Percocet. The artist, Future sings a song called ‘Molly Percocet' and includes similar wording in his song ‘Mask off'. Other artists like Lil' Wayne include lyrics about their Molly Percocet experience. Molly itself is a pure form of MDMA (often what you'll find in ecstasy pills). Percocet aids in snorting MDMA (MDMA is harsh on its own). Percocet also helps a person come down from Molly as it can be quite a downer once the high wears off. Percocet songs indicate that this is a hot drug that is being used by the famous and elite.
When Percocet is prescribed for pain, it alleviates pain and offers a slight feeling of happiness or euphoria. The feeling can cause a patient to become dependent on Percocet if treatment isn't monitored properly. However, when perks pills are taken in large doses, people will experience a high that is similar to heroin. This will include feelings of total relaxation and calm, euphoria, and an increase in pleasure. Some people might believe that perk pills are a safer way of getting high than illicit street drugs. After all, if a doctor prescribes them and its FDA approved, it must be okay.
When it's determined that someone needs the medication in order to function. It's not safe to combine with other drugs and Percocet addiction/abuse is just as plausible as heroin addiction. There is a risk of overdose when you attempt to obtain a high from Percocet by snorting or taking intravenously.
Other brand names include: Endocet, Primlev, Roxicet, Xartemis XR.
Many insurance companies will cover 100% of the cost of outpatient treatment. Call today and find out if your plan qualifies. We can also help with financing. (208) 906-0782
Percocet includes two ingredients that both have their own side effects as well as effects when combined. One of the most common side effects most will experience is constipation. Other common side effects include:
If you notice that these symptoms last for a long time and only seem to get worse, it's possible that someone you know has become addicted to Percocet. There is help available for someone who has become addicted to prescription drugs.
For people who have become addicted to Percocet, they may find it difficult to get the drug. Doctors have tried to restrict the amount they are prescribing because the risk of Percocet abuse is so high. When a person is showing signs and symptoms like this, it's also an indication of addiction to percs. The cycle of Percocet abuse and withdrawal include the following;
When someone takes more Percocet dosage past what is suggested, it can lead to overdose. Here are some of the symptoms that may occur;
While Percocet overdose is scary to witness, if the person survives, it may be just the kind of intervention they needed. Once friends and family have solid evidence that Percocet abuse is occurring, they can get the help needed for the addict.
People may compare Percocet vs. Vicodin when it comes to pain relief. The difference lies in their ingredients. While Vicodin has hydrocodone, Percocet contains oxycodone. They are both with schedule II implying that they are at a high risk of being abused. They are both considered risky for physical and psychological dependence.
When comparing price between generic Percocet vs. Vicodin, it is Vicodin that usually costs less. As far as potency goes, Percocet is stronger because of the oxycodone which is more potent that hydrocodone. The side effects are similar but Vicodin has shown to cause greater risk of constipation. Vicodin and Percocet are dangerous to mix with other substances. However, if someone has taken MAOI's within two weeks, Vicodin can have an adverse effect on the body.
It can be extremely dangerous for a person to attempt to recover from Percocet on their own. Drug treatment is the safest method of recovery, which generally means going through detox and rehab.
The detoxification process helps the body cleanse itself of toxins, and it also reduces the severity of withdrawal. Medication-assisted treatment is usually recommended for anyone who is addicted to Percocet. This allows them to take medications to help with their symptoms.
After detoxing, the next step is to go to drug rehab. That is where the individual receives the necessary counseling to help them stay off Percocet long-term. Any co-occurring disorders are addressed during this time, further increasing their chances for long-term success.
At Ashwood Recovery, we have created an outpatient drug rehab program that has helped so many people in Idaho. We are in-network with several of the most popular health insurance companies in the state as well. This allows us to keep our costs low for our clients.
When a potential client comes to us for help, they are carefully evaluated and then treatment is recommended. For someone who has an addiction to Percocet, they will be referred to a local detox program we trust to get treatment. Afterward, they can return to our program for drug rehab. From there, they enter into one of three levels of care – intensive outpatient treatment, traditional outpatient rehab or partial hospitalization.
At Ashwood Recovery, we know how difficult it is to recover from an addiction to a drug like Percocet. Opioid drugs are highly addictive, and this one is no different. We have extensive experience working with clients who are struggling with this type of substance abuse problem. We know the best ways to treat it.
Are you battling a Percocet addiction? Is someone you love addicted to this dangerous opioid drug? If so, please know that you are not alone. Our staff members are here to provide support and guidance as you concentrate on recovering.
Our admissions coordinators are here to help you get started with treatment the right way. They'll verify your health insurance, help set up travel arrangements, and make sure your transition into treatment is smooth and hassle-free.
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