Using Percocet for Pain Management
Percocet is an opiate that is commonly prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. It works by blocking pain receptors in the brain and creating feelings of well-being and euphoria. When used exactly as directed, Percocet can be an effective treatment of pain and can sometimes be used to manage pain for longer periods of time. However, it also has the potential to develop an addiction. Percocet addiction is a serious problem that can have significant negative consequences.
How Does Percocet Use Become a Problem?
Since Percocet is a legal prescription drug its addictive dangers often go unrecognized or underestimated. What may begin as a legitimate medical treatment for pain can become a serious addiction problem. Tolerance to Percocet develops quickly as the body adjusts to the drug’s presence, requiring increasingly greater doses of the drug in order for it to be effective. This can lead people to take larger or more frequent doses than was prescribed which can in turn cause a physical dependence marked by painful withdrawal symptoms if the drug is stopped. In addition to physical dependence, a psychological addiction can also develop. The person may begin to believe that enjoying life isn’t possible without Percocet and may become obsessed with the drug to the detriment of everything else.
Risks Associated with Long-Term Percocet Use
Besides the risks of addiction, there are some side effects of long-term Percocet use. Because it contains acetaminophen, Percocet can destroy the liver if taken in excess. Over time, Percocet use can result in greater susceptibility to disease, collapsed veins, infections in the heart and valves, and liver disease. Pulmonary complications such as pneumonia are common in long-term opiate users. If too much Percocet is taken at once, it can result in overdose, which can be fatal. During an overdose, the respiratory system slows down and can cause a person to stop breathing completely.
Methods of Managing Pain without Percocet
There are many alternative ways of managing pain that don’t involve drug use. This includes a variety of disciplines from acupuncture, chiropractic treatment, yoga, hypnosis, aromatherapy, relaxation, herbal remedies, massage, and others. The type of treatment that may be effective for you will vary depending on the root cause of the pain. You should talk to your doctor about alternative ways of managing the pain you are experiencing, or perhaps a way to further treat the source of the pain.
How to Overcome Percocet Addiction
Overcoming Percocet addiction will require professional rehab treatment. For those also struggling with pain, there are programs designed to address both the addiction issues and pain problems simultaneously. Willpower alone is not enough to overcome Percocet addiction. You will need the help and support of others in order to achieve a full and lasting recovery. Help with Percocet Addiction and Pain Management Our trained counselors are available 24 hours a day at a toll-free helpline to answer your questions and get you the help you need. Please call us today and get free from Percocet abuse.