Percocet is a pain-relieving drug that combines specific amounts of oxycodone and acetaminophen, which are both used as pain relievers. The level of pain that Percocet helps with ranges from moderate to severe and is used for a long list of painful conditions.
Acetaminophen is a non-opioid drug and not addictive. When someone becomes addicted to Percocet, the addiction comes from oxycodone, which is one of the most addictive drugs on the market. The way it works is that Percocet blocks many pain receptors within the brain and may also affect the receptors that regulate the body’s reward system.
What Are Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms?
If you’re addicted to Percocet and want to get off it, you’re apt to face withdrawal symptoms ranging from flu-like symptoms to more severe symptoms like high blood pressure or tremors.
The more common symptoms of Percocet withdrawal include:
- Restlessness
- Chills
- Sweating
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Depression
- Body aches
- Headaches
- Cravings
- Confusion
- Increased heart rate
- Tremors
Usually, the symptoms of withdrawal will not manifest simultaneously. Some may be experienced throughout the entire process while others manifest only at specific stages of the process of withdrawal.
What Are the Stages of Percocet Withdrawal Timeline?
The time required to properly withdrawal from Percocet is generally between five to seven days but can last up to 10 to 14 days depending on various factors, such as:
- Severity of addiction
- Length of time on Percocet
- Dosage of the drug
- How the drug was ingested (smoked, snorted, swallowed)
- Overall health condition
- Polydrug use (using two or more drugs at the same time)
- History of drug addiction
- Genetics
- Age
GENERAL PERCOCET WITHDRAWAL TIMELINE
DAYS 1-3
Symptoms generally begin within six to 10 hours after the last dose. Most of these symptoms are commonly mistaken for the flu and include yawning, insomnia, runny nose, sweating, increased tear production, muscle aches, agitation, irritability, and loss of appetite.
DAYS 3-5
During the next few days of Percocet detox, withdrawals begin to manifest more intensely. During this time, other forms of pain medication may be used to lessen the effects. Typical symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, depression, joint and back pain, headaches, tremors, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, dilated pupils, increased heart rate, and shallow breathing.
DAYS 5-7
At this stage of detox, many of the physical symptoms may subside or become less aggressive. However, during this time, emotional symptoms that will be more prevalent at this point may manifest or intensify. These symptoms are mood swings, sleep disturbance, anorexia, difficulties concentrating, and drug cravings.
DAYS 7-10
Usually, by now, the symptoms from the detox will have lessened greatly or disappeared altogether. The patient may be released to go home at this point, but several symptoms could linger for several weeks or months. These symptoms include trouble with feeling pleasure, emotional numbness, fatigue, difficulties sleeping, fluctuations in weight, and memory or concentration issues.
Why Should I Detox?
You should not stop taking Percocet “cold turkey” at home, as this can be very dangerous. Rather, a medical detox under the supervision of substance abuse professionals is recommended.
Percocet addiction is toxic to the brain and dangerous to the body. The misuse of Percocet greatly alters the normal function and processes of the brain. Misuse and abuse can cause harm physically, emotionally, and socially that may lead to other problems.
Physically, one may experience constant constipation, exhaustion, or fatigue, as well as coordination and motor functions, lack of balance, and sleep problems.
Emotionally, the user may become more aggressive, agitated, have intense mood swings, find it difficult to focus, have problems remembering things, make poor decisions, and have poor concentration. Socially, one may find themselves pulling away from friends and family, stealing or borrowing money for Percocet, as well as attempting to acquire the drug through other illegal means. All of this can negatively impact the user and their family.
What Is the Next Treatment Step?
Getting free from Percocet addiction begins with detoxing from the drug under the care of a medical professional. Once you’ve decided to work to overcome your addiction, the detox process will help your body to get rid of the toxins associated with Percocet.
After the detox phase, continued treatment is recommended in the form of either inpatient, outpatient, or intensive outpatient programs. All three of these options provide excellent care from a physician, mental health experts, addiction experts, and qualified, compassionate staff. You’ll undergo addiction treatment in a safe environment, learning how to beat addiction for the long haul. You also have the option to attend one, two, or all three types of treatment modalities.
INPATIENT TREATMENT
Inpatient treatment is the option that involves the patient staying at a medical facility designed to help with drug withdrawals. This is the most ideal option for those who have unstable households or are commonly found amongst people who are considered high-risk. During their time in the clinic, they will be provided with physical and emotional support from medical professionals and be provided with their personal space. Attending an inpatient treatment program greatly reduces the chance of relapsing.
OUTPATIENT TREATMENT
Outpatient treatment is the option that involves the patient receiving continued help from medical professionals while living at home. This is the most ideal option for those who have a work or home life that doesn’t allow for extended absences. With this option, the patient still receives excellent support and care, but they will also have longer periods at home where the temptation to use the drug can be higher.
INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAMS (IOP)
An intensive outpatient program, or IOP, is nearly identical to outpatient treatment, with the exception that more hours are required for treatment. This option involves a strict schedule and more frequent visits to the facility or at least 12 hours a week. Many people who complete inpatient treatment opt to attend an IOP for continued treatment, especially those who still feel like they aren’t strong enough to contend with cravings.
Start Your Journey To Recovery Today
Percocet withdrawal can cause you to feel uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, but it is necessary to face them to end Percocet addiction. The good news is that effective treatment is available. Whether you opt for an inpatient, outpatient, or IOP program, you’ll have access to addiction specialists who care about your well-being and have the tools and resources to help you.
If you’re struggling, know that help is available. Take that first step toward recovery now.
