Resources to Help a Loved One Overcome Painkillers
At South Shores Detox and Recovery, we have seen firsthand the harm caused by Percocet abuse. We have clients whose bodies become dependent on short-term relief. When the Percocet high wears off, the brain’s pain receptors tell them to start taking Percocet other than prescribed. Some eventually both misuse and abuse the pain reliever over time. The body develops tolerance, and that Percocet high gets harder to attain.
But what is Percocet, exactly, and how does Percocet make you feel? Percocet is a prescription medication that combines two active ingredients. It has two components. The first is Oxycodone, a powerful opioid painkiller. The second is Acetaminophen, a non-prescription pain reliever, and fever reducer. Doctors prescribe this acute pain relief medication post-surgery. They also recommend it to relieve moderate to severe pain. But it can quickly become a dependency, and all too often results in addiction when used in the long term.
Fortunately, you have found us – a place for effective, professional support for your recovery! We are experts in Percocet addiction treatment. Your total recovery from Percocet abuse is our goal. From assisting you in coming down from a Percocet high to follow-up care after you have found a firm footing in recovery, we are with you on this journey.
Meet Jordan: A Percocet Addiction Recovery Story
Jordan was a forklift operator at a warehouse. Their life suddenly changed when a forklift accident resulted in chronic pain. To manage this, they were prescribed a prescription opioid, Percocet.
Initially, the Percocet worked wonders, relieving the severe pain that plagued them. Over time, the effectiveness faded. Eager for the physical symptoms of their injury to subside, Jordan began taking higher doses of the drug. While Percocet offered temporary relief, it also led Jordan to discover a new aspect of the medication. The Percocet high meant intense euphoria. This feeling began to serve as a respite from their injury’s physical pain and stress.
Everything changed when Jordan pushed things too far. One day, after taking far more Percocet than the prescribed dose, Jordan was gripped by sudden chest pain and collapsed in their living room. Luckily, their roommate found them in time and noticed a slow heartbeat, calling 911 for medical support. This opioid overdose was a wake-up call for Jordan.
A Wake Up Call for Percocet Abuse
They were ready to explore treatment programs to stop taking Percocet. An acquaintance suggested South Shores Recovery Center, known for its personalized approach to addiction treatment.
Jordan contacted South Shores Recovery Center and enrolled in the outpatient treatment program. This choice allowed them to recuperate from the accident, return to work part-time, and beat drug addiction. At therapy, Jordan regained control. They now regularly attend support groups. They started yoga therapy to relieve pain naturally. And they learned to manage their chronic pain without using illicit opioids and stay focused on relapse prevention. They’re a whole new person with the tools and support they have acquired.
Jordan’s manager was so inspired by their journey that she tapped into their firsthand experience to lead a new employee initiative. Jordan’s no longer a forklift operator–they now serve as a mentor to others in the warehouse who may struggle through their lives, silently hiding their substance abuse.
How Does Percocet Make You Feel?
Percocet reduces severe pain and can bring relief and comfort when taken as prescribed. The combined oxycodone and acetaminophen is incredibly effective. But, the effects of Percocet also produce euphoria and relaxation. Those impacts cause some individuals to have severe addictions.
This misuse can lead to physical dependency. It becomes difficult to stop using this drug without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. This euphoric feeling is often the cause of Percocet’s misuse and addiction potential.
What are the Key Signs of Opioid Addiction?
Understanding the signs of Percocet addiction can be the first step toward seeking help for yourself or a loved one. Opioid addiction can present in a variety of ways. Both physical and behavioral changes often become clear.
Physical Changes
Physical changes are among the most noticeable signs of drug abuse. Prolonged use of prescription opioids like Percocet can lead to changes in appearance and physical health. One might notice frequent drowsiness or lethargy, often paired with periods of hyperactivity. You might observe noticeable weight loss due to changes in appetite. Or an individual might also display constricted or “pinpoint” pupils, even in dim light. Regular opioid use can also decrease personal hygiene. That happens when a person’s focus narrows to obtaining and using the drug.
Behavioral Shifts
Along with physical changes, behavioral shifts can also signify an addiction to opioids. Individuals may begin isolating themselves from family or friends. They’ll lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. They may also experience mood swings. Or they may become secretive or defensive about their activities. There may also be a noticeable shift in their priorities, as obtaining and using the drug becomes the primary focus of their life.
Are There Health Complications from Percocet Abuse?
Over time, Percocet addiction can lead to various physical signs and mental health concerns. Frequent illnesses, a weakened immune system, breathing problems, slowed heartbeat, liver damage, and a higher risk of overdose are all potential health issues associated with long-term Percocet abuse.
Emotional instability is another common sign of substance use disorders. Depression, anxiety, irritability, and rapid mood swings often result from Percocet abuse.
Understanding these signs is crucial in recognizing a possible addiction. If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, you must seek help. Recovery starts with acknowledging the problem and seeking professional help from our medical professionals at South Shores.
The Impact of Opioid Drugs on the Central Nervous System
Percocet is a Schedule II controlled substance. That’s a category of drugs defined by the U.S. Controlled Substances Act that have a high potential for abuse and dependency but also have accepted medical uses. Other inclusions on the list are the narcotic pain reliever oxycodone and fentanyl.
Like other opioids, Percocet impacts the central nervous system by binding to the opioid receptors in the human brain and nerves. This binding action blocks the brain’s pain perception while triggering dopamine release. That’s what causes the Percocet high–and why so many people abuse Percocet.
This oxycodone and acetaminophen combination is highly effective in relieving pain. But the Percocet high is one of its most addictive properties. As a result, increased cravings for the drug lead to physical dependence.
How Does Percocet Make You Feel: Overdose Symptoms
You must seek medical attention if you think you or a loved one is experiencing a Percocet overdose (or any drug overdose!). Symptoms of a Percocet overdose can include the following:
- Respiratory depression, or slowed or stopped breathing.
- The loss of consciousness
- Severe drowsiness
- Slowed heart rate
- Muscle weakness.
The Long-Term Side Effects of Percocet Addiction
Besides substance use disorders, the long-term side effects of Percocet can lead to serious health problems. These can include liver damage or liver failure due to the Acetaminophen component. It may also cause the development of tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction due to the Oxycodone component.
Oxycodone can also cause narrowed blood vessels, causing high blood pressure and heart problems. The long-term effects of Percocet dependency can also lead to mental health issues.
Recovery from Percocet Addiction
Recovering from Percocet addiction often involves a comprehensive approach. Treatment includes medical detoxification, counseling, and supportive aftercare. A well-structured treatment program can help individuals understand their addiction, develop coping strategies, and work towards a healthier, drug-free life.
We custom-tailor treatment options for every client we serve. We know that people abusing Percocet have differing levels of addiction and respond to various treatments. We have a wide range of tools in our kit; your treatment plan includes many options and possible services:
- Medication-assisted treatment to manage the physical withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings as you come down from the Percocet high. Don’t let opioid withdrawal scare you–our detox support team has you covered in the early recovery process.
- Group and family therapy.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy.
- Dialectical behavior therapy.
- Co-occurring disorder treatment to treat underlying causes of the substance use disorder.
- Post-treatment services to prevent the future use of Percocet.
Finding Help for Percocet Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with a dependency on Percocet, it’s important to remember that we are here for you. Our Percocet detox program has helped many clients find freedom from painkillers and lasting recovery. The experienced team of medical professionals at our addiction treatment center will offer compassionate, individualized care.
From helping you come down from the Percocet high to managing withdrawal symptoms to long-term recovery, we provide effective treatment for Percocet addiction. Our treatment options focus on physical and mental wellness.
Our team will help guide you toward a brighter future. Reach out to South Shores Recovery. We can assist you in taking that big first step on your drug abuse recovery journey, so call now!