Percocet Addiction

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Percocet is a trademarked prescription painkiller that combines oxycodone and acetaminophen. It’s commonly prescribed as a painkiller. Oxycodone, a potent opioid, shares its origin with substances like morphine and illicit opiates like heroin.

Opioids like Percocet stimulate the brain’s reward center, potentially leading to addiction due to the pleasurable sensations they produce. With continued use, though, the drug’s effectiveness diminishes, meaning that higher doses are required to achieve the initial effects. Read on to learn more about Percocet dependence and find out about the damaging effects of Percocet addiction.

How Addictive are Percocets?

Percocet, categorized as a Schedule II controlled substance, carries a high risk of addiction. Its euphoric effects closely resemble those induced by heroin, a dangerous illicit narcotic, mainly due to its oxycodone component.

While Percocet proves highly effective for short-term pain relief, tolerance to its effects can develop rapidly. Consequently, many people find themselves increasing their opioid dosage or frequency of consumption. This abusive pattern, along with prolonged use of Percocet, accelerates the onset of physical dependence. Percocet dependence often but not always leads to addiction to Percocet.

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Percocet Addiction Signs

The indicators of Percocet addiction can vary in their obviousness, depending on the severity of the problem. To determine if you are grappling with an addiction to this medication, consider the following symptoms associated with Percocet addiction.

Behavioral Percocet symptoms include:

  • Social withdrawal
  • Engaging in dangerous Percocet use
  • Increasing the dosage of Percocet
  • Prolonged use of Percocet beyond the intended duration
  • Attempting to steal Percocet
  • Persistently using Percocet despite experiencing adverse outcomes
  • Struggling to reduce Percocet consumption

Physical Percocet symptoms include:

  • Fluctuations in weight
  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Slurred speech
  • Coordination difficulties
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Breathing problems
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Slower heart rate

Cognitive Percocet symptoms include:

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Poor focus
  • Memory problems
  • Impaired decision-making

Psychosocial Percocet symptoms include:

  • Anger
  • Aggression
  • Agitation
  • Mood swings

Recognizing these symptoms can help in addressing Percocet addiction effectively and connecting with appropriate help and treatment. Consult with a healthcare professional or addiction specialist if you suspect you or someone you know is struggling with Percocet addiction.

Percocet Addiction Symptoms

Percocet addiction is clinically described as opioid use disorder. The symptoms are outlined as follows in DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders):

  1. Taking more Percocet than planned or using the medication for longer than intended.
  2. Making failed attempts to discontinue use of Percocet.
  3. Investing a lot of time using Percocet or recovering from its effects.
  4. Experiencing powerful cravings for Percocet.
  5. Ongoing opioid use leading to a failure to fulfill personal or professional role obligations.
  6. Using opioids even though it is causing problems in your closest relationships.
  7. Reducing everyday activities in favor of opioid use.
  8. Using Percocet in potentially dangerous situations.
  9. Continuing use of opioids even though they are triggering or worsening a physical or psychological health condition.
  10. Needing more Percocet to deliver the initial effects.
  11. Withdrawal symptoms manifesting upon discontinuation.

Keep in mind that a professional diagnosis from a healthcare provider is necessary to identify opioid use disorder. That said, the above diagnostic criteria can help you assess the extent of opioid abuse. What can you do if you feel you have a problem with Percocet addiction, then?

How to Quit Percocet Addiction

Overcoming Percocet addiction is a challenging journey that may not always be linear. If you or someone that you care about is struggling with Percocet addiction, consider the following steps to begin the process of quitting.

Self-assessment

Start by recognizing the problem and acknowledging the need for change. Reflect on the impact of Percocet abuse on your life, health, relationships, and overall well-being.

Seek professional help

Reach out to a healthcare provider or addiction specialist for guidance. They can assess the severity of your addiction and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Medical supervision

For those with severe dependence, medical detoxification under supervision may be necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.

Establish support systems

Build a strong support network that includes understanding friends and family who can encourage and assist you during your recovery journey.

Behavioral therapy

Consider participating in evidence-based therapies like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) or counseling. These approaches help address the psychological aspects of addiction and develop coping strategies.

Set realistic goals

Establish short-term and long-term recovery goals. Celebrate your achievements along the way to stay motivated.

Avoid triggers

Identify and avoid situations, people, or places that trigger cravings for Percocet. Learning to manage these triggers is crucial for maintaining sobriety.

Stay committed

Understand that recovery is an ongoing process, and setbacks can occur. Stay committed to your sobriety, seek help when needed, and continue moving forward.

Percocet Addiction Treatment

Effective treatment for Percocet addiction is a multifaceted process designed to address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of addiction. Here are key components of Percocet addiction treatment:

  • Medical assessment: Begin with a thorough assessment by a healthcare provider or addiction specialist to determine the extent of addiction and any co-occurring conditions.
  • Treatment setting: Choose between inpatient (residential) or outpatient treatment programs based on your individual needs. Inpatient programs offer intensive support, while outpatient programs provide more flexibility and affordability.
  • Behavioral therapy: Participate in evidence-based therapies to change addictive behaviors, develop coping strategies, and prevent relapse.
  • MAT (medication-assisted treatment): Many people may benefit from medications like buprenorphine or methadone, combined with counseling, to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
  • Family involvement: Involve family members in therapy to repair relationships, enhance understanding, and provide crucial support.
  • Holistic approaches: Explore complementary therapies such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and art therapy to improve overall well-being and stress management.
  • Support groups: Engage in support groups such as NA (Narcotics Anonymous) or SMART Recovery to connect with peers who have faced similar challenges and gain ongoing encouragement.
  • Aftercare planning: Develop a comprehensive aftercare plan to maintain sobriety after treatment, including ongoing therapy, support group participation, and relapse prevention strategies.

Successful Percocet addiction treatment involves a personalized approach tailored to your unique circumstances and progress. Remember that seeking help is a significant step towards recovery, and with determination and the right support, a healthier, drug-free life is attainable.

FAQs

What does Percocet do to you?

Percocet is a prescription medication that combines oxycodone, an opioid pain reliever, with acetaminophen. It is used to manage moderate to severe pain by altering the way the brain perceives pain signals and reducing pain sensation.

Why do people abuse Percocet?

People may abuse Percocet for various reasons, including seeking the euphoric high it can produce when taken in higher doses than prescribed. Some people misuse it to alleviate emotional distress or to cope with stress and anxiety, although this is not its intended use.

Can you get addicted to Percocet?

Yes, it is possible to get addicted to Percocet. The opioid component, oxycodone, can lead to physical and psychological dependence when used improperly or for an extended period. Misuse of Percocet can increase the risk of addiction, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation. It should be used strictly as prescribed by a healthcare professional to minimize these risks.

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Get Treatment for Percocet Addiction at Ohio Recovery Centers

Although opioid use disorder can be aggravating and disruptive, it’s also highly treatable. For those who need to remain anchored to their everyday commitments while engaging with treatment, we treat opioid addictions in an outpatient setting at Ohio Recovery Centers.

We can help you detox from Percocet under controlled conditions. You can also access medications approved by FDA to reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms and minimize cravings. After addressing the issue of opioid dependence, you’ll address the psychological component of addiction during ongoing outpatient treatment at our rehab in Cincinnati, OH.

Since all opioid addictions are different, treatment at Ohio Recovery Centers is personalized and may include MAT (medication-assisted treatment), talk therapies, family therapy, and counseling. You can also access holistic therapies and aftercare. Call 877-679-2132 today and begin your recovery from Percocet addiction tomorrow.

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Joseph Gilmore

Joseph Gilmore has been working in the addiction industry for half a decade and has been writing about addiction and substance abuse treatment during that time. He has experience working for facilities all across the country. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn.
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Christopher Glover CDCA

My name is Christopher Glover, and I am from Cincinnati, Ohio. I am currently in school and working to grow in competence to better support our community. As a recovering individual I know the struggles that you or a loved one can go through and that there is help for anything you may be struggling with.

The hardest part is asking for help and we are here as a team to best support you and your decision to start your journey towards a better future. Connect with Chris on LinkedIn

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Amanda Kuchenberg PRS CDCA

I recently joined Ohio Community Health Recovery Centers as a Clinical Case Manager. I am originally from Wisconsin but settled in the Cincinnati area in my early 20s.  My career started in the fashion industry but quickly changed as I searched to find my drive and passion through helping others who struggle with addiction. 

As someone who is also in recovery, I wanted to provide hope, share lived experience, and support others on their journey.  I currently have my Peer Recovery Support Supervision Certification along with my CDCA and plan to continue my education with University of Cincinnati so I can continue to aid in the battle against substance addiction. Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn.

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Patrick McCamley LCDC III

 Patrick McCamley (Clinical Therapist) is a Cincinnati native who has worked in substance use disorder/co-occurring mental health disorder treatment since 2019. Patrick received his bachelors degree in psychology from University of Cincinnati in 2021 and received his LCDC III (Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor) license from the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board in 2022. Patrick has worked in Clinical Operations, Clinical Case Management, and Clinical Therapy throughout his career.

Patrick has tremendous empathy and compassion for the recovery community, being in recovery himself since 2018. Patrick is uniquely qualified to be helpful because of the specific combination of his academic background and his own experience in recovery.

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Bill Zimmerman CDCA

Bill Zimmerman is a Greater Cincinnati Area native who has worked in substance use disorder/co-occurring mental health disorder treatment since 2018. Bill received his (Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant) license from the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board in 2020.

Bill has worked in Clinical Operations in both support and supervision, and Program facilitating and 12 step recovery support during his career. Bill has a passion for the recovery community, having been in recovery himself since 1982. Connect with Bill on LinkedIn

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Taylor Lilley CDCA, PRS

Growing up in Louisiana with addiction running rampant on both sides of my family. A life away from drugs and alcohol seemed impossible for someone like me. I remember what it was like sitting across from someone thinking there is no way they could ever understand what I was going through.

Sharing my experience offers a credibility and a certain type of trust with clients that only someone who has walked down this road can illustrate. To immerse myself further into the field of addiction, I am currently studying at Cincinnati State for Human and Social Services.  I hope I never forget where I came from, if I can do it, so can you!

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Thomas Hunter LSW

Hello my name is Thomas Hunter. I was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. I am a licensed social worker.In my scope of practice I have worked in the areas of mental health and recovery for thirty years. The clients I have worked with in my career have ranged in age from seven to seventy.

I strive each day to serve my purpose of helping those in need and I believe I do so by utilizing all of my experiences to accomplish my goal of supporting those who desire to establish their sobriety and maintain it in their recovery. Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn.

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Mary D.Porter,LICDC

 My name is Mary D. Porter. I received my Masters of Social Work in 2008 from The University of Cincinnati. I received My Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor Licensure in 2001. I retired from The Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center on April 14, 2014. Currently, I am the Associate Clinical Director for The Ohio Community Health Recovery Centers in Cincinnati.. Due to the fourth wave of the Opioid Epidemic in 2019,  I decided to enter back into the workforce to assist the addicted population.

The overdoses were astounding and I wanted to help.  I consider myself  to be an advocate for the addicted population. My compassion, resilience, empathy, wisdom, knowledge, experience and  love I have for this forgotten population goes beyond words. I consider what I do for the addicted population as a calling versus a “career,” because I too was once an “addict and alcoholic.” Today I am 45.5 years alcohol and substance free.

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Ben Lemmon LCDC III

Hello, my name is Ben Lemmon, and I’m the Vice President and Clinical Director at Ohio Community Health Recovery Centers. I’ve been working in the addiction and mental health field since 2013 and decided to enter the field after overcoming my own challenges with addiction.

When I first meet a client, I always explain to them that the reason we are meeting is because they are not capable of obtaining or maintaining sobriety, and my goal is to create a person that can maintain sobriety. I believe a person’s personality is made up of their thoughts, feelings and actions and my job is to help clients identify the thoughts, feelings and actions that have them disconnected from recovery and provide them with the tools to live a healthy and happy life. Connect with Ben on LinkedIn