Percocet withdrawal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, that may be made worse if the drug’s been taken for a long time. Withdrawal symptoms can appear within 24 hours of last taking Percocet, and most physical symptoms can continue for up to five days. However, some psychological symptoms, such as anxiety or depression, can last much longer. As withdrawal from Percocet can be severe, the safest option for experiencing withdrawal comes at a medically-monitored detox facility.
Suddenly stopping Percocet use may cause withdrawal symptoms, which is why doctors taper or prescribe lower and lower doses rather than having their patients quit using this pain-relieving drug. People may quit on their own for various reasons, including the drug becoming less effective for pain relief after long-term use. If you plan to stop using on your own, be prepared for the withdrawal symptoms that may appear and how long they may last.
If you or a loved one need help, call our admissions team today at 561-841-1033.WHAT IS PERCOCET?
If you’ve been prescribed Percocet, it’s been to manage pain. The drug, consisting of an opioid painkiller and non-opioid Acetaminophen, is intended to help someone with moderate to severe pain feel relaxed and treat a fever. The dosage of Percocet varies, ranging from 2.5 mg to 10 mg of Oxycodone and from 325 mg to 650 mg of Acetaminophen.
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. The most significant potential symptoms 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, running nose, sleep issues, sore joints, sweating, and teary eyes.
WITHDRAWAL TIMELINE
First Day
Three hours after taking Percocet, you will feel its effects begin to diminish. In 5-8 hours, someone accustomed to using it regularly will feel more noticeable withdrawal symptoms that resemble a common cold or the flu.
Second and Third Days
In addition to flu-like symptoms, withdrawal can increase in intensity during this time period. Be prepared to endure tremors, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting if detox is being done at home instead of in a medical detox setting.
Fourth, Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Days
During this period, you’ll 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’ll 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.
DETOX EXPECTATIONS
Medical detox is recommended for anyone who’s 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
People wanting to end prescription drug misuse can find help at Hanley Center in Florida. Hanley Center relies on evidence-based recovery therapies and alignment with age and gender-specific groups to guide patients through a personalized program to build skills to stay sober, create new support systems, begin to heal family relationships, and make plans for sustaining sobriety after treatment ends. When mental health disorders contribute to the abuse of prescription drugs, treatment for depression, anxiety, or trauma can be integrated into a larger plan for physical, mental, emotional, and psychological well-being. For many people who have been unsuccessful in their attempts to recover, identifying and addressing trauma can be instrumental in helping them stay in treatment and learn how to undo the damage of traumatic experiences.
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.
