Stopping Percocet can be physically and emotionally challenging, especially after ongoing or long-term use. Because Percocet affects the brain and body as an opioid medication, withdrawal symptoms may begin sooner than expected and can vary in intensity from person to person.
Understanding what Percocet withdrawal may look like, including when symptoms can start and how long they may last, can help patients and loved ones make informed care decisions. In many cases, medically monitored detox provides the safest and most supportive environment for managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing complications.
If you or someone you care about needs help safely stopping Percocet, call 561-841-1033 to speak with the admissions team at Hanley Center.
If you or a loved one need help, call our admissions team today at 561-841-1033.What Is Percocet?
Percocet is a prescription pain medication commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is a combination drug that contains oxycodone, an opioid pain reliever, and acetaminophen, a non-opioid medication used to reduce pain and fever. Because oxycodone acts on opioid receptors in the brain, Percocet can produce feelings of relaxation and pain relief, but also carries a risk for dependence with continued use.
According to the Mayo Clinic, suddenly stopping opioids like Percocet can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which is why medical providers often recommend tapering doses gradually rather than discontinuing use abruptly. Over time, the body can become accustomed to the presence of the medication, making it challenging to stop without experiencing physical or psychological effects.
Percocet is prescribed in varying strengths, typically ranging from lower to higher doses of oxycodone combined with acetaminophen. While it can be effective for short-term pain management, long-term or unsupervised use increases the likelihood of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped.
Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal after Percocet use is connected to its opioid ingredient (oxycodone), not its non-opioid pain reliever (acetaminophen). Reducing its use gradually can minimize some withdrawal symptoms.
According to an article published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the most significant potential symptoms of Percocet withdrawal are anxiety, depression, cravings, vomiting, and diarrhea. The latter two can lead to dehydration if not addressed.
Other withdrawal symptoms include discomfort, muscle aches, nausea, restlessness, runny nose, sleep issues, sore joints, sweating, and teary eyes.
Withdrawal Timeline
Day One
Three hours after taking Percocet, you will begin to feel its effects diminish. In 5 to 8 hours, someone accustomed to using it regularly will feel more noticeable withdrawal symptoms that resemble a common cold or the flu.
Days two and three
In addition to flu-like symptoms, withdrawal can intensify during this period. Be prepared to endure tremors, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting if detox is being done at home instead of in a medical detox setting.
Four to Seven Days
During this period, you will notice physical withdrawal symptoms becoming less intense while cravings remain strong. However, the psychological response to withdrawal can also pose a threat beyond a week after the last use.
Weeks Two, Three, and Beyond
By now, you will likely stop noticing any physical symptoms, but the desire to take Percocet again to cope with the psychological response may increase. Depression and anxiety may leave some people losing hope in the possibility of staying sober. This stage of the timeline is where the threat of relapse becomes greatest without some kind of intervention.
Percocet Detox Expectations
According to an article published by the Cleveland Clinic, medical detox is recommended for anyone who has been using opioids.
A medical detox team can ensure you remain safe and comfortable as the Percocet leaves your body and withdrawal symptoms appear. In addition, you may be prescribed medications to reduce your cravings and make you more comfortable. Anxiety and depression, a psychological outcome, can be monitored and managed. In addition, medical treatment can be offered to people with existing medical conditions that can be worsened by chronic drug use.
Getting Help at Hanley Center
At Hanley Center, patients receive comprehensive care for prescription drug use and co-occurring mental health conditions, recognizing how closely these concerns are connected. Treatment programs are individualized and grounded in evidence-based therapies, with specialized support that addresses physical stabilization, emotional healing, and long-term recovery planning.
When mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or trauma contribute to prescription drug use, integrated care allows both substance use and mental health needs to be treated together. Addressing these underlying factors can be an essential step in helping patients remain engaged in treatment and build sustainable recovery.
If you or someone you care about needs support stopping Percocet safely, help is available. Call 561-841-1033 to learn more about treatment options at Hanley Center and speak with someone who can guide you toward the next step in care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Most Common Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms?
Common Percocet withdrawal symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and intense cravings. Flu-like symptoms such as sweating, a runny nose, watery eyes, and restlessness may also occur. Symptom severity and duration can vary based on the length of use and dosage.
How Long Do Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
Percocet withdrawal symptoms often begin within several hours after the last dose. Physical symptoms typically peak within the first few days and may last up to a week, gradually decreasing in intensity. Cravings can continue beyond this period, and psychological symptoms such as anxiety or depression may persist for weeks or longer, which is why ongoing clinical support is often recommended.
Is It Safe to Stop Taking Percocet Suddenly?
Stopping Percocet suddenly is not recommended, especially after ongoing use. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and medical complications. Health care providers often recommend tapering doses gradually to reduce risks. Medically supervised detox offers monitoring and symptom management to support a safer and more stable withdrawal process.
What Should I Expect During Medical Detox for Percocet Withdrawal?
During medical detox for Percocet withdrawal, patients are closely monitored to support safety and comfort. Clinical staff may use medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings while also addressing anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. This supervised approach helps minimize complications and supports a more stable transition into ongoing treatment.
When Is the Risk of Relapse Highest During Percocet Withdrawal?
The risk of return to use is often highest after the first week of Percocet withdrawal, once physical symptoms begin to fade. During this time, psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and persistent cravings may continue, making it harder to maintain stability without support. Ongoing treatment and therapeutic care can help patients manage these challenges and strengthen recovery beyond the detox phase.
Hanley Center is a well-known care provider offering a range of treatment programs targeting the recovery from substance use, mental health issues, and beyond. Our primary mission is to provide a clear path to a life of healing and restoration. We offer renowned clinical care for mental illnesses and have the compassion and professional expertise to guide you toward lasting wellness.
