General Information

Percocet is the brand name for the combination of acetaminophen (Tylenol) and oxycodone. Percocet is an opioid, commonly prescribed for its analgesic (pain relieving) properties. It is prescribed for moderate to moderate severe pain. Percocet acts by binding with specific proteins called opioid receptors in the brain and spinal chord (Central Nervous System) and blocking or reducing communication between nerve and other cells, thus effectively altering the way pain is experienced. Acetaminophen halts the production of prostaglandins which cause pain. Acetaminophen is also a fever reducer and produces a calming effect. Percocet is available in tablet, capsule and liquid (syrup) form and taken, as prescribed, every 6 hours orally. Chronic use of Percocet can result in tolerance to the drug so that higher doses are required to achieve the same initial effects. Long-term use can lead to physical and psychological dependence; the body adapts to the presence of the substance and withdrawal symptoms occur of use is abruptly discontinued.

Overdosage Symptoms

A severe overdose of Percocet can be fatal. Symptoms of Percocet overdose may include the following: Bluish skin; yellow tone to eyes or skin; cold/clammy skin; decrease or irregularity in respiration; extreme drowsiness, progressing to stupor or even coma; heart attack, low blood pressure; muscle weekness; nausea, bradycardia (slow heart rate); sweating, vague bodily discomfort; vomiting.

Serious Side Effects

Less serious, more common side effects, include constipation, dry mouth, decreased appetite; dizziness, fatigue, lightheadedness, decreased sex drive, itching, sweating. The following serious side effects of Percocet may occur: allergic reaction; seizures; unconsciousness; unusual bleeding or bruising.

Addiction

Prolonged use of Percocet eventually changes the brain in fundamental and lasting ways, which explains why addicts cannot simply quit without professional help. This is why treatment is essential. Drugs of abuse take over the brain’s normal pleasure and motivational systems, advancing the drug use to the highest priority in the individual’s motivational hierarchy, thus overriding all other motivations and drives. These brain changes are responsible for the compulsion to seek/use drugs, which is defined as addiction.

Percocet Detox and Abuse Rehabilitation

Percocet detox is critical, prior to commencing rehabilitation. Although Percocet detox; itself, is not a treatment for addiction, it can help relieve withdrawal symptoms while the patient adjusts to being Percocet free. Fortunately, there are a number of effective options for treating Percocet addiction. Long-term Percocet use should not be abruptly discontinued except under the supervision of an experienced physician, who can manage the withdrawal symptoms and minimize the withdrawal period.

At Miramar Treatment Center’s Drug Rehab Program women receive physician assisted and monitored detoxification, as well as comprehensive rehabilitation services in Laguna Beach and Newport Beach, California.

FOR IMMEDIATE HELP, call now toll free (800) 455-1092 to speak with one of our counselors.