When a person stops taking or significantly cuts down their intake of Percocet, they may experience Percocet withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms occur because the body must adjust to a sudden and total lack of Percocet after continuous use. Oxycodone (the active ingredient in Percocet) interacts with opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, delivering pain relief and inducing a feeling of euphoria. The body, having adapted to the drug's presence, responds with withdrawal symptoms when regular Percocet use is stopped.
Key Takeaways:
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What Is Percocet?
Percocet is a prescription medication that combines two active ingredients: oxycodone, an opioid analgesic, and acetaminophen, a non-opioid pain reliever. Oxycodone works by altering how the brain and nervous system respond to pain, while acetaminophen helps to reduce pain and lower fever. This combination makes Percocet effective in treating moderate to severe pain, often prescribed after surgeries or for injuries. However, due to the presence of oxycodone, Percocet carries a risk of misuse and addiction, and it should only be used under a doctor's supervision to avoid potential side effects and complications.
What Is Percocet Withdrawal?
Percocet withdrawal is the body’s reaction when someone who has been using the medication regularly reduces their dose or stops taking it completely. Because Percocet contains oxycodone, a powerful opioid, the brain and nervous system adapt to its presence over time. When the drug is suddenly removed, this balance is disrupted, causing a range of uncomfortable physical and psychological symptoms. While Percocet withdrawal is rarely life-threatening, it can be extremely difficult to manage without medical support and may lead to relapse if untreated.
Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms
The strength and duration of Percocet’s withdrawal symptoms can differ among individuals. Withdrawal effects of Percocet may include the following:
- Flu-like symptoms: This can include body aches, fever, chills, and sweating.
- Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps are common Percocet withdrawal symptoms.
- Muscle pain and weakness: Opioid withdrawal can cause muscle pain and a general sense of weakness.
- Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep is a common symptom during withdrawal.
- Anxiety and irritability: Mental health symptoms, such as increased anxiety, restlessness, and irritability, are also common. Managing these psychological symptoms is a crucial aspect of the recovery process.
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure: Opioid withdrawal can lead to physiological changes, including an elevated heart rate and increased blood pressure. Monitoring these changes is essential for overall health.
- Enlarged pupils: The pupils may seem larger than usual. This physical manifestation is one of the observable signs of opioid withdrawal.
- Yawning and teary eyes: Frequent yawning and tearing up can be indicative of opioid withdrawal.
It's important to note that opioid withdrawal can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, challenging to manage without professional help. Abruptly stopping opioid use can cause more severe withdrawal symptoms, and there's a risk of relapse due to the intense discomfort.
How Long Does Percocet Withdrawal Last?
The duration of Percocet withdrawal can vary from person to person and depends on several factors, including:
- The individual's overall health
- Duration of opioid use
- Dosage
- Whether a tapering schedule is followed
Still, most people notice a clear pattern of early symptoms, a difficult peak phase, and gradual improvement afterward. Percocet Withdrawal typically begins within 6–12 hours after the last dose. Below is a breakdown of the general Percocet withdrawal timeline:
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Percocet Withdrawal Phase |
Withdrawal Timeline |
What This Phase Looks Like |
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Early Withdrawal |
6–12 hours after last dose |
Symptoms begin mildly, characterized by restlessness, yawning, a runny nose, sweating, and watery eyes. Anxiety may build as the body signals that it’s missing the opioid it has become dependent on. |
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Peak Withdrawal |
1–3 days |
Withdrawal is at its most intense. Flu-like effects (fever, chills, body aches) combine with stomach upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramps). Sleep is often impossible, and anxiety or irritability can feel overwhelming. This is the hardest stage and often the point when people relapse without support. |
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Acute Phase |
Up to 7 days |
Symptoms gradually ease, though fatigue, mood swings, muscle aches, and trouble sleeping may remain. Energy levels are low, and cravings can still be strong, making support crucial during this time. |
Some symptoms, however, particularly psychological ones like cravings and mood disturbances, may persist for a longer period.
It's important to mention that lingering withdrawal symptoms, occasionally known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), can last for weeks or months. These symptoms may include lingering mood swings, sleep disturbances, and cravings.
Percocet Detox
Detoxification (detox) from Percocet, or any opioid, involves clearing the drug from the body and managing withdrawal symptoms. Detox is typically the first step in addressing opioid dependence. It's crucial to recognize that detoxification alone is insufficient for lasting recovery; it needs to be accompanied by comprehensive addiction treatment to tackle underlying issues in order to foster sustained recovery.
Here are some key points about Percocet detox:
- Medical Supervision: Detoxification from opioids, including Percocet, is often recommended to be done under the supervision of medical professionals. They can monitor vital signs, manage withdrawal symptoms, and provide medical interventions if necessary.
- Tapering: In certain instances, a healthcare professional might suggest a gradual tapering plan, progressively decreasing the opioid dosage over time instead of abruptly discontinuing it. The objective of this approach is to diminish the severity of withdrawal symptoms and allow the body to adjust more gradually to lower opioid levels.
- Medications: Specific medications can be employed to address withdrawal symptoms and cravings throughout the detoxification process. For instance, prescriptions such as buprenorphine or methadone may be recommended to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and minimize cravings.
- Supportive Care: Adequate hydration, nutrition, and rest are essential during detox. Healthcare providers may offer supportive care to manage symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and insomnia.
- Counseling and Therapy: While detox addresses the physical aspect of opioid dependence, counseling and behavioral therapy are crucial components of comprehensive addiction treatment. They assist individuals in understanding the psychological and emotional dimensions of addiction and in formulating coping strategies to navigate the challenges of recovery.
- Follow-Up Treatment: Detox should be followed by ongoing addiction treatment to address the root causes of substance abuse and support long-term recovery. This may include outpatient or inpatient rehabilitation programs, individual and group therapy, and participation in support groups.
Avenues Recovery Can Help With Percocet Withdrawal
If you or someone you know is experiencing Percocet withdrawal symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to Avenues Recovery. It's essential to seek professional guidance to manage withdrawal effectively. Our team of experienced professionals specializing in addiction medicine is here to provide personalized assistance. We can recommend a gradual tapering plan and offer vital support, ensuring you overcome withdrawal symptoms most safely and effectively. Contact Avenues Recovery today for the help you need.
FAQs About Percocet Withdrawal
Can you die from Percocet withdrawal?
Percocet withdrawal itself is usually not life-threatening, but the symptoms can be very uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as dehydration or relapse. Medical supervision is the safest way to go through withdrawal.
How to treat Percocet withdrawal?
Treatment for Percocet withdrawal often involves medical detox with supportive care, tapering under a doctor’s guidance, and sometimes medications that ease symptoms. Ongoing therapy and rehab programs can also help with long-term recovery.
What does Percocet withdrawal feel like?
Withdrawal often feels like a severe flu combined with intense cravings and mood changes. People may experience muscle aches, nausea, sweating, anxiety, insomnia, and irritability, with symptoms peaking a few days after the last dose.