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.

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):
- Taking more Percocet than planned or using the medication for longer than intended.
- Making failed attempts to discontinue use of Percocet.
- Investing a lot of time using Percocet or recovering from its effects.
- Experiencing powerful cravings for Percocet.
- Ongoing opioid use leading to a failure to fulfill personal or professional role obligations.
- Using opioids even though it is causing problems in your closest relationships.
- Reducing everyday activities in favor of opioid use.
- Using Percocet in potentially dangerous situations.
- Continuing use of opioids even though they are triggering or worsening a physical or psychological health condition.
- Needing more Percocet to deliver the initial effects.
- 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.

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.