As access to prescription meds increases, so does the misconception that they are safer or easier to use than other drugs.
This is not always the case, as prescription meds can be just as harmful and addictive as street drugs. One such drug is the Percocet.
What are Percocets doing to people? Administered as a pain-killing drug, people often use them to moderate-severe pain and reduce fevers.
However, in this article, we will review the dangers and addictive properties of Percocet.
What are Percocets?
The Percocet is a drug administered through medical prescription as a severe pain reliever. The drug consists of two active ingredients: acetaminophen and oxycodone.
Acetaminophen, or Tylenol, is a non-opiate pain reliever used to treat symptoms of headaches, muscle aches, fevers, toothaches, menstrual periods, and other minor pains. It works by blocking the pain receptors found in the body, further increasing one pain threshold and reducing the temperature in the body for fevers.
The second component, oxycodone, is an opiate drug, meaning it is derived from the poppy plant. Oxycodone sedates the brain and may induce feelings of relaxation and euphoria, allowing it to treat pain symptoms, though it has many other physiological effects.
Use and Dosage
Percocets are just as addictive as street opiates like heroin and can easily cause an overdose if misused. An overdose of Percocet can be fatal.
Some side effects may include shallow breathing, weak pulse, low blood pressure, vomiting and spasms, seizures, and even comas. Dosage can vary from person to person, so one should only take the amount recommended by one’s doctor.
The numbing effects of Percocet often occur within twenty to thirty minutes; however, it can last around 17-18 hours before leaving the body. Traces of the drug can be found in the urine up to 3 days later and 3 months later in the hair.
Risks and Side Effects
Because of its dangerous nature and ability to cause addiction, it is crucial to understand the risks of taking Percocet. The active opiate oxycodone, like many other opiates, can be addictive and cause physical dependency from the user. The DEA classifies Percocet as a Schedule II prohibited drug.
What are Percocets able to do to someone? They can cause withdrawal symptoms, including pains, twitching, runny nose, sweating, and other flu-like symptoms, followed by psychological issues like anxiety, insomnia, and irritability. Percocet can further harm someone by causing liver damage, gastrointestinal issues, and cognitive impairment.
How to Deal with Addiction
If you or a loved one deals with an addiction to Percocet, there are several steps you can take. Know that you are not alone. Plenty of experienced individuals, including doctors and experts, understand your situation and want to help you.
The best way to get in contact with these people is through a drug rehab center. Go in person or email the treatment center to receive evidence-based data and treatment plans.
In Conclusion
During a prescription drug epidemic, it is good to know what to do when you or someone you love is battling an addiction. In this article reviewing what are Percocets, you’ve learned the harmful and addictive properties of such an opiate drug. When faced with addiction, you should always seek help from drug treatment centers.
