What is Percocet Normally Used for?
Percocet is an opioid narcotic which contains oxycodone for pain management. Review the uses of Percocet, side effects and how to determine if possible addiction has started to the drug.
Uses of Percocet
Some risks exist with taking Percocet. The possible adverse side effects of Percocet can include:
- Anxiety
- Abnormal moods
- Chest tightness
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Difficulty urinating
- Itching and rash
- Slowed or irregular breathing
- Vomiting
The effects may be bothersome but are generally not dangerous or lethal. More serious side effects, such as slower breathing, can put a person at risk of brain damage, coma or death. More serious side effects are less common. Consulting a doctor is always advised when questions exist about Percocet side effects for difficulty breathing or other serious side effects.
Illegal use of Percocet
A valid prescription is required to use Percocet. Percocet may stay in the urine within a ‘detection window’ of approximately 1-2 days after last use. It is illegal to do the following with Percocet:
- Write a fraudulent prescription to get Percocet
- Distribute Percocet
- Sell or give away Percocet
Penalties for doing the above including selling or giving away Percocet may cause severe harm or death to others which bring state or federal laws into effect. Each state varies in how a person is punished for this offense but it is better to stay on the right side of the law and use Percocet only with a valid prescription.
Problems with Percocet
A person who uses Percocet will experience a euphoric high which requires taking the drug in dangerously high doses. Not only can a person die from opiate overdose, acetaminophen in Percocet can cause permanent liver damage. Percocet is potentially lethal if taken in conjunction with alcohol or other drugs.
Addiction to Percocet is possible which can cause strong cravings and drug-seeking behavior as the body requires the drug to feel the same over time. An addiction causes withdrawal effects when a person tries to stop using the drugs. Dependence is not necessarily an addiction but a higher risk exists if there’s ever a problem with drug or alcohol abuse in the past.
Help for Addiction
If a person believes a problem exists with Percocet addiction, help is available. Pain management is the main reason people begin using Percocet but if an individual wants to quit taking the medication, it is best to speak to a treating physician about how to quit. A tapered dosage schedule can help a person gradually wean off of the drug. Following long-term use, Percocet should never be stopped abruptly or without doctor’s guidance.
If you or a loved one struggle to quit Percocet, help is available in the form of different treatment options. Call us to discuss ways to move forward in recovery from Percocet addiction and find hope to be healthy.