When you hear things said about prescribed medications being abused, there are a variety of medications they can be referring to. One of which is Percocet. Percocet is a prescription opioid that can be used for pain management.
Opioids are medications that have naturally occurring opium from a poppy plant. They are effective in relieving pain because of the impact that it has on our brains. Opioids are commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain on a short-term basis. Opioids can be used for chronic pain, however, the risk of physical dependence and addiction increases with longer use of the medication.
Misusing a prescription, such as Percocet, means that it is not your prescription to be taking, you are taking more than you are prescribed, taking it longer than you were directed, and taking the medication with the intent of getting high.
Is Percocet Addictive?
When someone takes a Percocet, the medication goes from their bloodstream to their brain. In the brain, Percocet connects to the opioid receptors which then change the way our bodies interpret pain.
Additionally, Percocet can then trigger the brain to release dopamine. Dopamine is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter in our brain that is involved in our reward systems. For example, when dopamine is released from taking Percocet, our brain connects the positive feeling of dopamine with the Percocet. This can lead to us taking the medication more to gain more dopamine. This reward system is directly involved in the development of an addiction.
For those of us who struggle with addiction, this new reward system tends to override other reward systems we have. For example, our bodies typically release dopamine when we engage in enjoyable activities. With addiction, taking the drug releases more dopamine than other activities. This can help explain why we are less likely to engage in hobbies and interests when we are in active addiction.
How does Percocet Affect the Body?
It is important to note that it is possible to take Percocet, as prescribed, and not develop an addiction. When Percocet is taken on a short-term basis, as prescribed, it can provide a sense of relief from pain, a sense of happiness, and feelings of being relaxed.
Side effects of opioids include drowsiness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and slowed breathing. These are all effects Percocet may have on the body.
Individuals who use Percocet long-term can develop a tolerance. This can happen with individuals who are abusing Percocet, as well as those who are taking it as prescribed. Tolerance simply means that they need to take more of the medication to have the same effect, including pain relief.
Long-term use of Percocet can also lead to physical dependence. This means our bodies get used to having the drug in our system and make changes to accommodate for this. When someone who is physically dependent on Percocet stops taking it, their body will experience withdrawal symptoms. This tends to be uncomfortable, and individuals are encouraged to seek medical supervision while detoxing.
Since Percocet is an opioid, it is important to note it is possible to overdose. Overdoses occur when someone takes too much medication. Symptoms associated with an overdose include slowed breathing, bluish lips and fingernails, loss of consciousness, and pinpoint pupils. This is a medical emergency, and individuals who overdose are in immediate need of help. While waiting for emergency services, it is possible to give the overdosing individual Narcan, also known as Naloxone. Narcan can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
What are the Signs of Percocet Abuse?
An initial sign that someone is abusing their prescription is that they run out of their prescription early. There can be many reasons for this, however, the bottom line is that if the medication is taken as prescribed you should not run out of your prescription. Those who do run out of it may choose to purchase more illegally.
Other signs that someone may be struggling with abuse would be if they have developed a tolerance or are physically dependent on the medication.
There are several behavioral changes that are commonly seen among individuals who are struggling with an addiction. This can include relationship distress with friends and family, new legal concerns, inability to pay bills, appearing moody and irritable, and having new difficulties at work. Individuals who are in active addiction are typically focused on planning out their next use, which can push other responsibilities on the back burner. While these changes can be indicative of an addiction, they can also be signs of other mental health struggles.
What Treatment is Available for Percocet Addiction Treatment?
For those who have reached a point in their addiction where they are ready to ask for and accept help, there are a variety of treatment options to choose from. This can be overwhelming, so take advantage of the representatives for programs who can further discuss the programs offered in their facilities.
There are two main categories for addiction treatment; inpatient and outpatient.
Inpatient rehab programs include detox and inpatient rehab programs. Detoxification programs are typically one week long and focus on helping your body through the discomforts that come along with physical dependence on a substance. Inpatient rehab programs can range from 30 to 90 days, depending on your treatment needs. These programs typically include group sessions, individual sessions, educational sessions, alternative sessions, and medication management.
Outpatient programs include partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, outpatient programs, and family therapy programs.
Partial hospitalization programs typically have a 6-8 hour day of programming 4-5 days each week. You will be engaging in group and individual sessions, as well as medication management, if appropriate.
Intensive outpatient programs include 15-25 hours of group therapy each week, with one individual session per week. The length of your program will be dependent on your needs.
Outpatient programs typically involve fewer hours of therapy each week which can be scheduled around other responsibilities. These programs give you a safe space to come for support as you navigate early recovery.
Family therapy programs include group therapy, family therapy sessions, and educational groups. These programs focus on the family as a whole and can help develop a plan for moving forward.
To learn more about our Percocet rehab in Indiana, we invite you to call (833)999-1551 and talk with a representative.
How to Find Percocet Addiction Treatment in Indiana
To find a Percocet rehab in Indiana, you can ask your primary care physician for a referral or speak with your insurance program for a referral. Inpatient treatment programs can also provide you with referrals upon discharge.
Evolve Indy is an Indiana Percocet addiction treatment facility with a variety of addiction and mental health services available to you. Our sober living homes can provide you with a safe living environment while in early recovery. You may call (833)999-1551 to learn more.