Percocet Guide

Percocet is a mix of oxycodone and acetaminophen used to treat moderate to severe pain. Misuse or abuse of Percocet can lead to addiction. 

Table of Contents

What is Percocet?

Percocet is a combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen. It treats moderate to severe pain. Oxycodone is an opioid painkiller that binds to the opioid receptors in the brain and alters how the body interprets and perceives pain. Acetaminophen is a pain killer and fever reducer.

While Percocet has medical use, it is also highly addictive and should be taken with caution. Percocet should only be used under the strict guidelines of a medical professional. This Percocet guide will discuss misuse or abuse that can lead to many negative consequences.1

Common Street Names

There is a problem with Percocet being bought and sold illegally for recreational use. Recreational use of this drug is dangerous and should be avoided. Those who buy and sell Percocet illegally may refer to this drug as street names such as:

  • Blue
  • Kicker
  • Percs
  • 512s2

Percocet vs. Norco

Both Percocet and Norco are combination drugs containing an opioid painkiller combined with acetaminophen. The main difference between the two is the opioid painkillers used. Percocet contains oxycodone, whereas Norco contains hydrocodone. Both drugs have a similar effect when taken and treat pain. Some of the side effects may also differ between the two. Research has shown that Percocet is more likely to cause fatigue, headache, drowsiness, nausea, and dizziness.

Since both drugs contain an opioid painkiller, they have a high risk for addiction. If you are prescribed either of these medications, talk to your doctor about dosage recommendations and any concerns about side effects. It is important to take these medications under the guidelines provided by a doctor. Readers of this Percocet guide should know that taking these drugs for a long period or at higher doses than prescribed can lead to addiction and other negative side effects.

Percocet Dosage

Like other medications, Percocet comes in different dosages to meet the requirements of a variety of patients. The Percocet dosage prescribed will depend on the patient’s biological make-up and pain treatment needs.

Percocet 5/325

Percocet 5/325 is a Percocet dosage that contains 5mg of oxycodone hydrochloride and 325mg of acetaminophen. This is one of the lower dosages of Percocet that one may be prescribed.

Percocet 10/325

Percocet 10/325 is a Percocet dosage that contains 10mg of oxycodone hydrochloride and 325mg of acetaminophen. This is one of the higher dosages of Percocet that someone may be prescribed with and it would be used to treat severe pain.

How Long Does Percocet Stay in Your System?

Percocet can be detected in the blood for about 24 hours, in saliva for about 48 hours, in urine for 4 days, and in hair follicles for 90 days. But, readers of this Percocet guide must know that these numbers will vary slightly depending on the biological make-up of the individual and the dosage.3

Signs and Symptoms of Percocet Addiction

It isn’t always easy to tell when someone is struggling with an addiction. They may try to cover their disorder due to the stigma that surrounds addiction. However, this Percocet guide will discuss some common signs and symptoms you can look for. Signs that someone is struggling with an addiction may be physical or behavioral.

Physical Signs

Common physical signs of Percocet addiction may include:

Behavioral Signs

Common behavioral signs of Percocet addiction may include:

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, there are resources available that can help. You do not have to go through this alone.4

Percocet Side Effects

When taking any drug, side effects may occur. These negative side effects can become dangerous if the drug is misused or abused. Percocet side effects have many negative consequences that can take a toll on someone’s life.

Short-Term

Common short-term Percocet side effects may include:

Long-Term

Common long-term Percocet side effects may include:

These side effects are serious and will require proper medical attention and treatment.5

Overdose

Percocet does have a risk of overdose. When one takes Percocet at high doses for a long period, tolerance is built. This means higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect. Taking high doses of Percocet can lead to an overdose. If someone overdoses, it is important that they receive immediate medical attention. Common overdose symptoms include:

Withdrawal

Readers of this Percocet guide should know that when the drug is abused for an extended time, physical and psychological dependence forms. This means that withdrawal symptoms will occur if drug use stops. Percocet withdrawal symptoms can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening. Proper treatment and support are needed during the withdrawal process to ensure that it is as safe and comfortable as possible. Common Percocet withdrawal symptoms may include:

If you are struggling with a Percocet addiction, you do not have to go it alone. There are resources available that can help you get on the path to recovery.7

Treatment Options

Detox

Detox is one of the initial steps in the treatment process. Since Percocet withdrawal symptoms can be more severe, it is common to taper off the medication during the detox process rather than quitting cold turkey. A treatment center can provide you with around-the-clock support and medical attention to make this process as safe and comfortable as possible.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medication-assisted treatment may ease withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse. Naltrexone, buprenorphine, and methadone are common medications used for opioid addiction treatment.

Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient rehab is often a good idea for the treatment of Percocet addiction. Inpatient treatment allows you to stay at a treatment center for a duration of time while you recover. This allows you to live in a structured environment, have a constant support system, and receive therapy that can provide you with coping mechanisms that will help with maintaining sobriety long-term.

Resources

If you or a loved one needs help, please call us at
623-523-4748 and our team at Blueprints For Recovery in Arizona will help.

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