Preventing addiction can seem as simple as avoiding addictive substances. But what if you were in a serious car accident and ibuprofen wasn’t enough to mitigate the intense pain from your injuries? In situations like these, medical providers may prescribe a more potent pain reliever like Percocet®, which can be addictive. Sadly, some people become dependent on their prescription pain relievers, so it’s important to understand the side effects and how to spot the signs of Percocet® abuse.
If you or a loved one is having difficulty quitting Percocet®, you can rely on Promises Brazos Valley’s prescription drug addiction treatment programs. We offer various options, from residential treatment to partial hospitalization (PHPs) and intensive outpatient programs (IOPs).
What To Know About Percocet
Percocet® is a prescription drug consisting of the opioid painkiller oxycodone and the over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever acetaminophen—the generic version of Tylenol®. This combination can help manage moderate to severe pain following an injury, surgery, or chronic health condition.
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies Percocet® as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and addiction.
How Does Percocet Work?
Oxycodone in Percocet® works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain signals and producing feelings of relaxation and euphoria. Acetaminophen enhances these effects and also helps reduce fever.
What Are the Common Uses for Percocet?
Doctors typically prescribe Percocet® for short-term use to manage acute pain. You may use it after surgery, dental procedures, or injuries such as fractures or sprains. Doctors can also prescribe it for chronic pain caused by conditions like cancer, fibromyalgia, or arthritis. In some cases, it may help manage pain associated with migraines or menstrual cramps.
What Are the Side Effects of Percocet Use?
While Percocet can help make chronic pain more bearable, the medication can have some adverse effects. Like with other pain-relieving medications, Percocet® side effects can range from mild to serious, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with them. Some potential side effects of Percocet® include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Shallow breathing
- Confusion
- Fainting
On top of these side effects, it’s also vital to note that Percocet® is an addictive substance. Taking your medication more often than advised increases the risk of developing an addiction, so you should reach out to your medical provider if your current dose doesn’t provide adequate pain relief. This could also indicate that you’ve developed a tolerance to your prescribed dosage, which is another early warning sign of addiction.
Spotting Percocet Abuse
Recognizing Percocet® abuse in a loved one allows you to steer them toward the help they need to address addiction and prevent the aforementioned side effects as well as a crippling addiction. If you have reason to believe someone in your life might be misusing Percocet®, watch for the following signs.
Changes in Behavior
When someone misuses a prescription painkiller, they may become more secretive to hide their behavior from those close to them. They might begin withdrawing from social activities and hobbies they used to enjoy. Percocet® abuse can also lead to unexplained irritability and mood swings.
Physical Symptoms
Taking doses of Percocet® that are more than prescribed can cause excessive drowsiness, slurred speech, and confusion. The person’s pupils may also be constricted, known as pinpoint pupils.
Neglecting Responsibilities
Prescription drug misuse can quickly become a priority in a person’s life, making less room for personal and work responsibilities. Your loved one may begin missing days at work or school, their performance may decline, and they might even experience expulsion or unemployment. This behavior can carry over into the home, and you might find your loved one doesn’t keep up with their share of household duties or child care.
Doctor Shopping
If someone uses more medication than advised, they’ll run out of pills before they can refill their prescription. Some people try to get around this by scheduling appointments with different doctors and asking for a Percocet® prescription from each one. This practice, known as doctor shopping, is a concerning sign that your loved one has developed an addiction to their medication.
Enroll in Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment at Promises Brazos Valley
If you think someone you care about is abusing Percocet®, it’s time to have a conversation with them about the risks and how they can get the support they need to quit. Promises Brazos Valley offers welcoming and nonjudgmental treatment in College Station, Texas, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), gender-specific care, and even programs tailored to the needs of young adults and college students. Call us today at 979.426.0086 or reach out online to discuss which of our programs is right for you or someone in your life.