Percocet Addiction Deadly Signs, Symptoms, & Side Effects

Percocet addiction occurs using a prescription painkiller that contains a combination of oxycodone (a synthetic opiate) and acetaminophen. Which leads to deadly signs, symptoms, & side effects of Percocet Addiction. Read More to find out about treatment options for you or your loved ones who are struggling.

By We Level Up | Editor Yamilla Francese | Clinically Reviewed By Lauren Barry, LMFT, MCAP, QS, Director of Quality Assurance | Editorial Policy | Research Policy | Last Updated: January 13, 2023

Percocet addiction occurs using a prescription painkiller that contains a combination of oxycodone (a synthetic opiate) and acetaminophen. Which leads to deadly signs, symptoms, & side effects of Percocet Addiction. Read More to find out about treatment options for you or your loved ones who are struggling.

Percocet is a prescription painkiller containing oxycodone (a semi-synthetic opiate) and acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol). The formulation provides relief for moderate to severe pain and lasts up to 3 to 5 hours. OxyContin, another oxycodone-based painkiller, can provide relief for up to 12 hours due to its time-release properties. Prolonged abuse may lead to Percocet Addiction.

 Percocet Addiction can cause serious health complications.
Percocet Addiction can cause serious health complications such as memory issues, fatigue, and constipation.

Percocet Fact Sheet

Also known as Oxycodone, Xtampza ER, Roxicodone, Oxaydo, & Oxycontin.


Percocet Narcotic

It can manage mild to extreme pain.


Percocet Controlled Substance

High potential for dependency and addiction. When consumed in high amounts or in combination with other substances, particularly alcohol or other illegal narcotics like heroin or cocaine, it can cause respiratory distress and even death.

Percocet Availability

Prescription only.


Percocet & Pregnancy

Consult a physician.


Percocet & Alcohol

Avoid. There may be very serious interactions.


Percocet Drug Class

Opioid.

Percocet Addiction FAQs

Is Percocet Addictive?

Any person who uses opioids runs the danger of becoming addicted. It depends on your personal history and how long you’ve used opioids, but it’s impossible to predict who will eventually become addicted to and abuse these medicines.

Are Percocets Addictive?

If you are wondering, “are Percocet addictive?”, the answer is any person who uses opioids runs the danger of becoming addicted. It depends on your personal history and how long you’ve used opioids, but it’s impossible to predict who will eventually become addicted to Percocets and abuse these medicines.

How Long Does It Take To Get Addicted To Percocet?

If you are wondering, “how long does it take to become addicted to Percocet?”, the answer is that addiction to Percocet is a complicated condition. Percocet is a highly addictive opiate painkiller, and reliance on it can set in even after only a few weeks of therapy. The longer a person continues without therapy, the worse their opiate addiction will get.

How Addictive Are Percocets?

If you are wondering, “how addictive is Percocet?”, the answer is that any person who uses opioids runs the danger of becoming addicted. It depends on your personal history and how long you’ve used opioids, but it’s impossible to predict who will eventually become addicted to and abuse these medicines.

Am I Addicted To Percocet?

Addiction to Percocet is a complicated condition. Percocet is a highly addictive opiate painkiller, and reliance on it can set in even after only a few weeks of therapy. The longer a person continues without therapy, the worse their opiate addiction will get.

Can You Get Addicted To Percocet?

Addiction to Percocet is a complicated condition. Percocet is a highly addictive opiate painkiller, and reliance on it can set in even after only a few weeks of therapy. The longer a person continues without therapy, the worse their opiate addiction will get.

How To Get Off Percocet Addiction?

As with any opiate addiction, treating a Percocet addiction can be difficult, but many options are available.  The rehabilitation is similar to that for other prescription opiates, such as OxyContin or morphine.

The detox is often the most physically difficult step in the process, as withdrawal symptoms from Percocet can be intense.  Many recovering addicts cite muscle aches and insomnia as the most difficult symptoms they face.  Undergoing detox with a medical professional can help ease the process of how to stop Percocet addiction.

Why Are Percocets Addictive?

If you are wondering, “why is Percocet addictive?”, the answer is that When people take more Percocet than is recommended or shatter the pills and snort them, they are abusing the medication. This amplifies the drug’s effects and can quickly result in addiction. When it is combined with other drugs or alcohol, it is also misused. By raising dopamine levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure, percocet has an impact on the brain. This might cause a Percocet high and encourage addiction.

Why Do People Get Addicted To Percocet?

When people take more Percocet than is recommended or shatter the pills and snort them, they are abusing the medication. This amplifies the drug’s effects and can quickly result in addiction. When it is combined with other drugs or alcohol, it is also misused. By raising dopamine levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure, percocet has an impact on the brain. This might cause a Percocet high and encourage addiction.

Percocet Addiction Statistics

Not only heroin but also prescription opioids like Percocet are to blame for the present opioid problem in America. It’s hardly surprising that so many people are dealing with this kind of chemical dependency issue given the sharp spike in the number of prescriptions made for drugs like Percocet. In reality, since 2000, the number of fatal overdoses and opioid-related deaths has surged by 300%, with more women than males actually developing addicted to painkillers.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), overuse of painkillers—including Percocet—has climbed by 270 percent among males and 400 percent among women. Given these startling figures, it’s critical that folks who abuse Percocet or other drugs get the help they so desperately require to preserve their own lives.

Understanding Percocet Addiction

When used as prescribed by a doctor, this medicine can help someone whose ability to go about their daily activities due to moderate to severe pain. On the other side, if this medicine is used inappropriately, a euphoric high can be experienced combined with a substance dependency issue that can be extremely difficult to treat without getting expert help.

If you’ve ever misused Percocet, you’re certainly familiar with the withdrawal symptoms that can appear when you can no longer obtain more of it or are attempting to stop taking it. You should also be aware that Percocet does not have to control how you spend your life. At a good addiction treatment center, you can get expert assistance, learn how to withstand Percocet or other drug cravings, and develop the self-assurance and skills required to lead a sober lifestyle.

Don’t let another day go by while you are still dependent on Percocet. It’s time to reclaim your life and start living the healthy life that everyone deserves.

Percocet Addiction And Abuse

This is a strong pain reliever most often prescribed for intense, short-term pain after surgery or trauma, but it is also sometimes used for clients with severe chronic pain.  In addition, Percocet is often seen as a safer way to get high because it is legal to purchase (it is available with a prescription).

However, this is still widely abused for its narcotic effect.  A high enough dose can result in a sense of euphoria similar to that experienced by heroin users.  Abuse can lead to Percocet Addiction or something harder.

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Percocet Addiction Signs

Abuse of the drug Percocet may be more visible in some persons but less so in others. You may or may not be dealing with the following symptoms, depending on how much of this painkiller you’re taking, how long you’ve been taking it, whether you’re mixing it with other medicines, and whether you’re physically dependent on it:

Signs For Physical and Psychological

  • Withdrawal signs while stopping the use of Percocet.
  • Loss of weight.
  • Unsteady speech.
  • Diminished heart rate.
  • Issues with sleep.
  • Sluggish breathing.
  • Difficulties with balancing.
  • Fatigue.
  • Exhaustion.
  • Constipation.
  • Fluctuations in the mood.
  • Anger.
  • Aggression.

Signs For Cognitive:

  • Inadequate decision-making.
  • Inadequate focus.
  • Memory issues.
  • Focus deficit.

Signs For Behavioral and Social

  • Intent on stealing Percocet.
  • Trying to steal or borrow cash to purchase Percocet.
  • Taking Percocet for a longer duration or in larger doses than recommended.
  • Social isolation.
  • Trying to get a Percocet prescription that isn’t legal.
  • When it is obviously unsafe to stop using Percocet, one tries but is unable to do so.
  • When using Percocet has already had bad effects, one continues to abuse it.

If you recognize any of these symptoms, please contact us at We Level Up immediately. One of our compassionate medical professionals can answer any questions you may have and guide you through the next steps.

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Effects Of Percocet Addiction

You should prepare for a lot of interpersonal conflict if you keep abusing Percocet. The following are among the many effects of battling a Percocet addiction that are most frequently mentioned by persons who have sought treatment and are now in recovery from this kind of chemical dependency issue:

  • Suicidal tries.
  • Suicidal thoughts.
  • Relationship tension.
  • Social exclusion.
  • Sexually inappropriate.
  • Job loss.
  • Getting involved with the legal system.
  • Homelessness.
  • Financial difficulties.
  • Family strife.
  • Eye issues.
  • Developmental issues with mental health.
  • Heart and lung damage.
  • Persistent unemployment.

Addiction to Percocet can result in risky behavior, including:

  • Seeking out drug dealers
  • Using a fake prescription
  • Stealing
  • Seeing multiple doctors

The most commonly recorded physical side effects of Percocet include:

  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Headache
  • Memory loss
  • Dizziness

Social Signs Of Percocet Addiction

Percocet can be difficult to obtain because it requires a prescription.  Many people cannot obtain enough Percocet through legal means, such as a prescription from a doctor.  Therefore, people who are addicted may try anything to get the drug.  Individuals who are addicted may turn to steal medication from friends, family members, or strangers or forging prescriptions. 

They may pretend to lose their prescription or frequently request new ones.  They may file false police reports so pharmacies will give them more medication.  Some addicts will also visit multiple doctors or pharmacies, so they aren’t as likely to get caught.  Percocet use and abuse can cause a person to develop obvious mannerisms like appearing high or unusually excitable.  Alternately, some people also appear sedated or excessively tired.

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Consequences Of Percocet Addiction

Opioids like Percocet can cause serious health complications. It can also slow a person’s breathing, which may cause them to stop breathing entirely. It’s even possible to fall into a coma or die as a result of an overdose.

A person addicted to Percocet may be more likely to use other illegal drugs or prescription medications.  In addition, certain combinations of medications can be lethal.

An addiction can affect work performance and personal relationships.  In addition, people who abuse Percocet sometimes engage in risky behaviors.  This may lead to motor vehicle accidents or accidents that cause bodily harm.  People who are addicted may also find themselves involved in criminal activity, especially if they decide to steal, forge a prescription, or lie to get more pills.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Abuse of Percocet has the potential to worsen pre-existing mental health issues or to lead to the emergence of new problems that can have a negative impact on a person’s life. Know that there is assistance and hope available if you are dealing with a Percocet addiction along with other mental health issues. In addition to providing assistance for treating Percocet usage, many programs also provide therapy for the co-occurring disorders listed below:

  • Trauma-related stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Further drug use disorders
  • Depressive illnesses
  • Bipolar illnesses
  • Anxiety conditions
  • Disorder of the antisocial personality

Risk Factors 

The risk of addiction is greatest among women and seniors.  Women are also about twice as likely to form a physical and psychological dependence as men.  At We Level Up, we offer a treatment program for all.

Percocet addiction can develop even if you use it exactly as your prescription describes.  However, if you abuse Percocet, it is much more likely. Due to the potential for abuse, prescribing Percocet is regulated by United States law.

There are numerous paths that might lead to Percocet abuse. If you’re wondering why and how this kind of substance misuse problem has affected your own life, take into account the following conclusions supported by research that show why some people battle with Percocet abuse while others do not:

  • Genetic: Your addiction to Percocet can be partially a result of your genetic composition since addiction is a problem that can be passed on via one’s genes. It may be helpful to look into your own family history for examples of others who have also struggled with this type of issue because research has identified the gene cluster that can make substance abuse more problematic for some people.
  • Environmental: Your capacity to handle stress, the people you associate with, and the environment in which you spend time can all have an impact on whether or not you abuse Percocet or other medications. These are just a few instances of how your surroundings may influence your propensity for substance abuse. Last but not least, you run the risk of misusing Percocet if you have a prescription for it or can obtain access to it readily.
  • Risk Factors: Prior drug or alcohol misuse or mental illness, lack of self-control, possessing simple access to Percocet, having a personality that enjoys novelty, family history of addiction or substance abuse, mental disease running in the family, & getting a Percocet prescription.

Percocet Detoxification

Detox is usually the first stage of addiction treatment.  Detox involves removing all traces of a drug and its toxins from your body.  If unsupervised, detox can be a difficult and even dangerous process.  At We Level Up, detox takes place under the 24-hour supervision of medical professionals.

Our detox facilities are luxurious and comfortable, and our staff is always available to cater to your needs and make the process as easy as possible.  In addition, they may prescribe you medication to help ease uncomfortable symptoms if necessary.

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Withdrawal & Overdose

Effects of Percocet withdrawal: If you quit taking Percocet after becoming addicted to it for a protracted period of time, you may experience withdrawal symptoms similar to those associated with other opioids. You will require expert assistance to overcome this sort of addiction because of the withdrawal symptoms listed below:

  • Moist eyes
  • Shakes & twitches
  • Clogged nose
  • Pupillary enlargement
  • Percocet addiction desires that are really strong
  • Excessive perspiration
  • High body temperature
  • Dysphoria
  • Diarrhea

Effects of a Percocet Overdose: Because Percocet is such a dangerous prescription pain reliever, consuming too much of it can undoubtedly result in an overdose. You may be having an overdose if you take too much Percocet, and you’ll require emergency medical care to recover from this kind of problem as well as the accompanying symptoms:

  • Vomiting
  • Unsteady speech
  • Slow heartbeat
  • Nausea
  • No memory
  • Consciousness loss
  • Arduous breathing
  • Coma
  • Cramps in the abdomen

Percocet Addiction Treatment

As with any opiate addiction, treating a Percocet addiction can be difficult, but many options are available.  The rehabilitation is similar to that for other prescription opiates, such as OxyContin or morphine.

The detox is often the most physically difficult step in the process, as withdrawal symptoms from Percocet can be intense.  Many recovering addicts cite muscle aches and insomnia as the most difficult symptoms they face.  Undergoing detox with a medical professional can help ease the process.

Once former addict is ready to reintegrate into society, they can find continuing support groups through outpatient treatment at one of the many successful treatment centers across the country.

Take control of your addiction.  Contact a dedicated treatment provider now for more information about rehab for a Percocet addiction.

Our rehabilitation program is underpinned by the 12-steps, one of the most well-known and effective addiction treatment methods.  A powerful tool for spiritual development, the 12-steps focus on remaining abstinent through helping others.

We also offer:

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
  • Experiential Therapy
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  • Individual and Group Therapy
  • Psychoeducational Lectures
  • Family Therapy
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We Level Up Treatment Center provides world-class care with round-the-clock medical professionals available to help you cope.  We work as an integrated team providing information about What is Percocet and other aspects of treatment.  Make this your opportunity to reclaim your life.  Call today to speak with one of our treatment specialists.  Our specialists know what you are going through and will answer any of your questions and how to get Percocet addiction help.

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Endo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2014). Percocet (Oxycodone and Acetaminophen Tablets, USP). Retrieved on 18th March 2014 from http://www.endo.com/File%20Library/Products/Prescribing%20Information/PERCOCET_prescribing_information.html
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Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. (2016). Results from the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Detailed Tables. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Rockville, MD.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Drug Abuse Warning Network, 2011: National Estimates of Drug-Related Emergency Department Visits. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 13-4760, DAWN Series D-39. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2013.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. Monitoring the Future Study: Trends in Prevalence of Various Drugs.