According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), “10.1 million people misused prescription opioids in the past year.”[1] There are many different types of prescription opioid drugs, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and more. One of the most commonly abused prescription opioid medications is known as Percocet.
Percocet is a prescription opioid pain reliever that contains acetaminophen and oxycodone. While this medication is effective in relieving symptoms of pain, it also provides people with feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Because of this, Percocet is habit-forming and highly addictive.
When you are addicted to Percocet, you are at an increased risk of experiencing the consequences of addiction. This could include financial distress, homelessness, social isolation, legal issues, increased symptoms of mental illness, and life-threatening medical conditions. Seeking treatment for Percocet addiction is the first step toward regaining control of your life.
Side Effects of Percocet
Percocet is intended to relieve symptoms of pain. This medication is an opioid, which means it works by attaching to opioid receptors in the body. Opioid receptors are found in various parts of the body, including the brain, spinal cord, and gastrointestinal tract. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), all prescription opioids, including Percocet, can be addictive.[2]
When Percocet attaches to the opioid receptors in your body, it reduces the transmission of pain messages to the body. This is why medications like Percocet cause you to feel less pain. However, it is important to note that this drug also causes effects other than pain relief.
The side effects of Percocet include:[3]
- Dry mouth
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Itchiness
- Drowsiness
- Flushing
- Headache
- Mood changes
When you take Percocet for an extended period, your body will become dependent on the substance. This means your body relies on Percocet to function normally. When you stop taking the drug, you will experience symptoms of withdrawal, indicating that you are suffering from addiction.
If you or a loved one use Percocet in a manner other than intended by a doctor, you are abusing the medication. This puts you at an increased risk of developing an addiction to the substance. Percocet addiction must be treated by a professional opioid rehab program to ensure that you gain the support and tools you need to maintain long-term recovery.
Signs of Percocet Addiction
Oftentimes, people who are struggling with addiction have a hard time recognizing it themselves, especially when the drugs they are addicted to are prescribed to them. Despite the symptoms of addiction being plain to others, the effects of substance abuse make it difficult for the individual to identify that they have a problem.
The signs of Percocet addiction include:
- Using the medication longer or in larger amounts than your doctor recommended
- Running out of your prescription before it’s time for a refill
- Going to multiple doctors to receive more than one prescription for Percocet at a time (“doctor shopping”)
- Stealing from or lying to loved ones to abuse Percocet
- Neglecting your personal responsibilities due to Percocet abuse
- Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of Percocet
- Having to increase your dosage to experience the desired effect (developing a tolerance)
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you cannot take Percocet (physical dependency)
- Having strong urges or cravings to use Percocet (psychological dependency)
Identifying Percocet addiction can be difficult, especially if it is in the early stages. Addiction is a progressive disease, meaning it worsens over time. If you or a loved one were prescribed Percocet or otherwise and display any of the signs of Percocet addiction, you should seek support from a licensed addiction treatment center.
How is Percocet Addiction Treated in New Jersey?
Percocet addiction is best treated within a comprehensive addiction treatment program. These programs typically last anywhere from 30 to 90 days, providing you with intensive support, treatment, and the tools needed to maintain long-term sobriety. During inpatient treatment programs for Percocet addiction in New Jersey, you will engage in a variety of evidence-based treatment techniques that prepare you for independent living as a sober individual.
Percocet addiction treatment in New Jersey typically involves:
- An initial intake assessment to gather personal information about your medical, psychiatric, family, and substance abuse history
- Medical detox to help you overcome the withdrawal phase of recovery safely and comfortably
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) options to eliminate cravings for opioids during early recovery
- Evidence-based behavioral therapies to change negative patterns of behavior into positive ones and teach you how to regulate your emotions in a healthy way
- Family therapy and support for family members
- Mental health counseling for people with a history of mental illness
- Group counseling to improve your social skills and reduce feelings of isolation
- Relapse prevention planning that provides you with all of the tools you need to maintain sobriety outside of the treatment facility
- Referrals to sober living housing programs to ease your transition from treatment to independent living
The ultimate goal of Percocet rehab in New Jersey is to teach you how to cope with life stressors and triggers using healthy coping mechanisms. Understanding how to do so will prevent you from feeling the need to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol.
Find Treatment for Percocet Addiction in New Jersey
If you or a loved one suffer from Percocet addiction, help is available. Living with an untreated substance use disorder can make it difficult for you to function in your daily life and put you at risk of experiencing medical emergencies like overdoses. Addiction treatment programs in New Jersey can provide you with the support and tools you need to overcome chemical dependency and improve your quality of life.
Contact Moving Mountains Recovery Center today to learn more about our Percocet rehab program in New Jersey.
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