Percocet Addiction
Addiction to prescription drugs like Percocet is still a concern in Naples, Florida. Because Percocet is only available from legitimate manufacturers and refills on this medication is prohibited by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the only pathways into Percocet addiction includes the prescribed use of Percocet or deliberate affiliation with an illicit drug distribution source. This could be a drug dealer, a friend or a next door neighbor. Doctors prescribe Percocet to help patients manage severe pain. It is typically recommended for short-term use.
Even with strict adherence to doctor's orders, some patients still develop Percocet addiction. In fact Studies show that physical addiction to Percocet can develop in as little as a week of continuous use. As such, most individuals who take this drug only for its euphoric effects put themselves at significant risk of quickly developing Percocet addiction.
Unlike most other substances of abuse when Percocet addiction occurs, it typically stays for a longer period under the radar of family and friends. Unfortunately, this allows for more time for the addiction to become fully developed. It also increases the opportunity for the individual to experience a potentially fatal drug overdose.
What is Percocet?
Percocet is the brand name for a combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen. Because of its high potential for addiction, Percocet is a severely regulated drug with a Schedule 2 Classification. On the street Percocet is often referred to as Percs, Paulas, Roxi's, Roxicotten, Blue and Blue Dynamite to name a few. Prescription painkillers like Percocet augment the production of pleasure signals in the brain. Continuous use of this drug, overtime may hinder the brain from producing these pleasurable signals which increases the need for massive doses of Percocet in order to artificially recreate these natural sensations.
Signs of Percocet Abuse
- A preoccupation with getting prescription refills through doctor shopping or seeking out alternative sources to get the drug.
- Overspending or using funds designated for other sources to purchase Percocet.
- Consuming several Percocet multiple times each day, every day.
- Manifesting changes in patterns of behavior such as a diminished interest in going to work, school or taking care of family responsibilities
- Neglect of personal hygiene and general appearance
- Observable shifts in personality
- Experiencing mood swings, depression or suicidal thoughts
- Becoming easily frustrated, irritated or angry
- Insufficient sleep that lead to restlessness and agitation.
Studies show long term abuse of Percocet can cause respiratory and cardiovascular complications, kidney disease, gastrointestinal problems, liver dysfunction and mental disorders.
According to the Centers for Disease Control since 2007 drugs overdose deaths from prescription medication like Percocet resulted in four times as many deaths as heroin overdose and twice as many as cocaine. Although various initiative has been successful in slowing the progression of this deadly trend, many people still die every day from prescription drug overdose.
The good news is that treatment is available to help patients battling Percocet and other prescription drug addiction to reclaim their lives. Call Drug Treatment Naples today at (877) 804-1531 to find out about various innovative evidence-based treatment programs.