Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms, Risk Factors, & More

Percocet is among the most commonly used pain relievers following surgeries and dental procedures, and typically prescribed for short-term use. However, abuse, combined with certain risk factors, can lead to dependence and Percocet withdrawal – which can cause a slew of physical and psychological symptoms. Thankfully, these symptoms can be managed and overcome with the right treatment and support. 

Learn more about the symptoms of Percocet withdrawal, and if you’re fighting this battle alone, call The Edge Treatment Center for support. We’ll guide you toward the right resources for a safe detoxification. 

Percocet refers to the brand label for a pain reliever containing oxycodone and acetaminophen. Oxycodone is a highly potent opioid from the same plant as morphine and several illegal narcotics, such as heroin, while acetaminophen is a non-opioid analgesic commonly prescribed for pain management and fever. 

Withdrawal from Percocet can be a challenging experience, marked by a range of symptoms that can affect your physical, psychological, mental, and behavioral well-being. These symptoms arise after prolonged use and then cessation of Percocet, and can occur following a prescription if not used responsibly. By understanding these symptoms, you can recognize them and seek help when you need it. Let’s explore the range of Percocet withdrawal symptoms:

Physical Symptoms

Muscle Aches and Pains

You may experience intense muscle aches and pains throughout your body as your system adjusts to the absence of Percocet.

Sweating and Chills

Frequent sweating and chills are common as your body attempts to regulate its internal temperature without the drug.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are typical during withdrawal, often leading to dehydration if not properly managed.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea can occur as your digestive system responds to the lack of opioids, causing discomfort and potential dehydration.

Fatigue and Insomnia

You might feel extreme fatigue during the day while struggling with insomnia at night, disrupting your regular sleep patterns.

Psychological Symptoms

Anxiety

Anxiety can become more pronounced during withdrawal, with feelings of unease, worry, and fear intensifying.

Depression

Depressive symptoms, such as sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities, are common as your brain chemistry adjusts.

Irritability

Heightened irritability and mood swings may occur as your body copes with the absence of Percocet.

Mental Symptoms

Cognitive Impairment

You may experience difficulties with concentration, memory, and decision-making as your brain readjusts.

Cravings

Intense cravings for Percocet are a significant mental challenge, often persisting even after the physical symptoms subside.

Confusion

Feelings of confusion and disorientation can arise, making it hard to focus on tasks or understand situations clearly.

Behavioral Symptoms

Restlessness

You may feel restless and unable to stay still, constantly shifting or pacing as a result of withdrawal.

Social Withdrawal

Withdrawing from social interactions and isolating yourself from friends and family is common during this period.

Changes in Appetite

Your appetite may fluctuate, leading to either a significant increase or decrease in food intake.

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Withdrawal from Percocet can vary significantly from person to person due to several influencing factors. Here are the key elements that can affect the severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms:

• Duration and Quantity of Use: Long-term and high-quantity use increases dependency and withdrawal severity.

• Method of Misuse: Ingesting, chewing, snorting, smoking, or injecting Percocet enhances dependence compared to traditional oral consumption.

• Polydrug Use: Combining Percocet with other drugs can worsen withdrawal symptoms and increase dependence.

• Genetic Factors: Personal or family history of drug addiction can impact withdrawal experiences.

• Physical Characteristics: Brain chemistry, metabolic rate, and other internal factors influence withdrawal severity.

• Pre-existing Health Conditions: Existing physical or mental health issues can affect withdrawal symptoms.

• Environmental Factors: Lack of support, high stress levels, and exposure to trauma can exacerbate withdrawal symptoms.

As previously stated, abruptly discontinuing Percocet can be risky, as it can bring considerable mental and physiological side effects. Extreme depression and anxiety can ensue, among other effects, potentially increasing the likelihood of relapse or even suicidal thoughts.

Percocet is a CNS (central nervous system) depressant medicine which, when abruptly stopped after dependency has been established, may resume autonomic functions. Shaking, cardiac arrest, hypertension, and breathing problems may occur, as well as fluctuations in heart rate, arterial pressure, breathing, and body temperature.

Drug cravings can also be powerful, resulting in readmission or relapse to drug misuse. Furthermore, returning to Percocet use after being off its consumption for any time is especially dangerous, since your body will have begun to readjust itself, and the tolerance level might have changed. Suppose an individual continues to consume the same quantity of Percocet as before; in that case, a toxic accumulation and possible overdose may occur. 

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Understanding the timeline for Percocet withdrawal can help you anticipate and manage the symptoms more effectively. Here’s a general outline of what you can expect during the withdrawal process:

1. Initial Phase (6-12 Hours After Last Dose):

Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 6 to 12 hours after the last dose. You might start feeling anxiety, muscle aches, sweating, and restlessness.

2. Acute Phase (1-3 Days):

Symptoms usually peak around 48 to 72 hours after the last dose. During this phase, you may experience intense cravings, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, insomnia, and increased heart rate.

3. Sub-Acute Phase (4-7 Days):

Physical symptoms like muscle aches, nausea, and diarrhea begin to subside. However, psychological symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and depression may persist.

4. Late Withdrawal Phase (1-2 Weeks):

Some symptoms, particularly psychological ones, may linger for a week or two. These can include mood swings, fatigue, and cravings.

5. Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) (Weeks to Months):

Some individuals may experience PAWS, which includes prolonged psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. This phase can last for weeks or even months, requiring ongoing support and management.

Anyone who has used opioids is advised to undergo medical detoxification. A medically-supervised detox can keep you secure and at ease as the Percocet departs your system and feelings of withdrawal emerge. You might be administered drugs to lessen desires while making you feel less uncomfortable, such as buprenorphine. After the detox stage, patients can then move onto inpatient and outpatient rehab, before participating in aftercare to ensure long-term recovery.

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Percocet withdrawal can be challenging, but treatment is available to help you or a loved one break free from dependence in a healthy manner. As mentioned previously, the treatment process for Percocet withdrawal – or opioid addiction – consists of detox, inpatient rehab, outpatient rehab, and aftercare. 

Throughout treatment, you can expect a mix of behavioral and group therapies. Support groups are another layer of support that keeps individuals motivated throughout the process, as they’re able to connect with others who have been in their shoes. Here’s a quick summary of how Percocet withdrawal is typically treated:

1. Medical Detoxification:

Under the guidance of medical professionals, detoxification provides a safe and controlled environment to manage withdrawal symptoms. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can also be used to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This is otherwise known as medication-assisted treatment (MAT). 

2. Inpatient Rehabilitation:

Inpatient rehab offers 24/7 medical care and support in a structured setting, minimizing the risk of relapse during withdrawal. It includes a combination of medical treatment, counseling, and therapy to address both physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

3. Outpatient Programs:

Outpatient programs allow you to receive treatment while continuing with daily responsibilities, such as work or school. Regular therapy sessions and support groups can help manage withdrawal symptoms and develop coping strategies.

4. Behavioral Therapy:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you understand and change patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to addiction. Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is also a popular treatment modality that combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to manage emotional regulation and stress.

5. Support Groups:

Peer support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide a community of individuals who share similar experiences, offering encouragement and support. Other groups, such as 12-step programs, offer a structured approach to recovery, emphasizing personal responsibility and spiritual growth.

6. Holistic Therapies:

Practices such as mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress and improve emotional well-being. Other activities such as acupuncture and massage therapy can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and promote relaxation.

7. Nutritional Support:

Eating a balanced, nutritious diet supports overall health and aids in the recovery process. Certain vitamins and supplements can also help replenish nutrients depleted by long-term Percocet use.

Navigating Percocet withdrawal can be a daunting journey, but understanding the symptoms and seeking the right support can make a significant difference. At The Edge Treatment Center, we are dedicated to helping you or your loved one find the help you need to overcome Percocet withdrawal and opioid addiction. One of the ways we do this is by connecting patients with reputable detox centers in the Southern California area. Contact us today to learn how we can guide your recovery journey.

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If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, there is hope. Our team can guide you on your journey to recovery. Call us today.

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