Many people take prescription opioid pain relievers. Percocet is one of the most commonly prescribed opioid painkillers in the United States. While people can use opioids safely, many people misuse these potent drugs–and many become addicted to them.
Opioid misuse can quickly become life-threatening. People without other risk factors for a substance use disorder (SUD) may develop physical dependency on Percocet over a short period.
It’s essential to recognize the signs of opioid abuse and seek treatment as quickly as possible. This article will explore Percocet abuse and addiction. You will also learn what happens during an opioid detox program and how to find a treatment center.
Contact the specialists at Flourishing Foundations Recovery now to learn about our highly effective opioid rehab programs. Our admissions team will also answer questions, verify your insurance details, and schedule an intake evaluation.
What is Percocet?
Percocet is the brand name of a drug containing two ingredients: oxycodone and acetaminophen. Oxycodone is an opioid. Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in Tylenol.
This combination of drugs is effective at relieving moderate to severe pain. Doctors may prescribe it to patients to manage pain after surgery. Some people may take it to relieve pain related to an injury or chronic medical condition.
Percocet is an addictive substance. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) classifies Percocet as a Schedule II drug. This means Percocet is a controlled substance with a known medical use.
Percocet and other opioids can cause people to feel “high” or euphoric when using them. These side effects can cause people to abuse Percocet.
Percocet Abuse and Addiction
Percocet contains an opioid drug. Opioids are highly addictive, meaning that users may develop physical dependency if they misuse them.
Like all medications, Percocet can cause side effects. One of the side effects of Percocet is euphoria. Euphoria is an experience of intense pleasure, warmth, and general well-being. People may like the way they feel while taking Percocet. They may want to take it differently than prescribed.
Percocet misuse includes:
- Taking a larger dose of Percocet than prescribed
- Taking Percocet more often than prescribed
- Using Percocet for a longer period than your doctor told you to
- Using Percocet differently than intended, such as crushing and snorting your pills
- Taking Percocet without a prescription
Taking more Percocet than you should can lead to tolerance. Tolerance means that your body has gotten used to a specific dose of Percocet. If you develop tolerance to Percocet, you may need to take more of it to get the effects you want.
Over time, misusing Percocet can lead to physical dependency. When you develop a physical dependence on Percocet, your body cannot function without it.
If you try to quit taking Percocet after becoming addicted to it, you will experience opioid withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms may include intense cravings, physical symptoms, and emotional discomfort.
Most people with opioid addiction need professional substance abuse treatment. Long-term recovery from opioid addiction often begins in a medically supported detox program.
What to Expect from a Percocet Detox Program in San Antonio
Opioid detox can be very challenging. People may experience uncomfortable, disruptive withdrawal symptoms during the first days or weeks of detox. Opioid withdrawal symptoms include:
- Irritability
- Headache
- Chills
- Dizziness
- Watery eyes
- Yawning
- Elevated blood pressure
- Dilated pupils
- Runny nose
- Intense cravings for opioids
Many people who attempt a “cold turkey” detox at home end up relapsing before their detox is complete. This can be very dangerous and lead to an overdose.
Safe and effective treatment can keep people from relapsing during detox. It can help them prepare for a comprehensive treatment program later.
During a Percocet detox, mental health and medical professionals provide continuous treatment, supervision, and support to help people manage withdrawal safely. Treatment may include:
- Medications, such as methadone, buprenorphine, or clonidine, to reduce withdrawal symptoms and provide comfort
- Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
- Daily medical check-ins
- Daily mental health and medical support
- A structured, secure environment
- Nutrition support, yoga, mindfulness, and other holistic therapies
People who participate in a medically supported detox program are more likely to have a safe, complete detox.
After detox, it’s important to continue in a comprehensive treatment program that includes:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Therapy and education for family members
- Medications
- Mental health treatment
- Relapse prevention and coping skills education
- Holistic therapies like yoga, massage, acupuncture, mindfulness, and more
- Aftercare planning
People may participate in inpatient or outpatient programs after completing detox.
Find a Percocet Detox in San Antonio
Opioid abuse can harm every part of your health and well-being. If you or someone you love struggles with opioid dependence or other drug abuse, you are not alone. Effective treatment and support are available at Flourishing Foundations Recovery.
Contact our specialists now to learn about our Percocet detox and opiod addiction treatment programs in San Antonio. You may also verify your insurance, schedule an intake assessment, or ask any questions you have.