The Timeline for Percocet Detox and Managing Withdrawal Symptoms Safely
To get past a physical dependence on Percocet, it is necessary to go through the withdrawal process. That’s a difficult path to travel, of course, but it is required – and it can be made more manageable by using treatment programs that are designed to support your success.
But how long does Percocet withdrawal last, and how can the symptoms be addressed effectively?
On this page, we are going to cover some of the basics of Percocet withdrawal symptoms, how long they last, and more. When you are ready to get started on this important process and start working toward long-term recovery, place a phone call to the team at Ingrained Recovery.
The Typical Percocet Withdrawal Timeline
You can’t count on the physical and psychological symptoms of Percocet withdrawal following a universal timeline for everyone, but the layout below is often how it plays out for those struggling with an addiction.
Early Withdrawal Symptoms (Day 1-3)
It will likely be the case that the first intense withdrawal symptoms will set in during the first three days of stopping the use of the drug.
Percocet detox is so difficult because of the challenges that are faced during the time, including flu-like symptoms, muscle cramping, sweating, and more.
Mid-Stage Withdrawal Symptoms (Day 4-7)
It’s usually during this phase that the physical symptoms will start to subside somewhat while the psychological symptoms become more intense.
Withdrawal and detox from Percocet comes in waves and the difficulties that are faced will vary based on how far into the process the individual has progressed.
Late-Stage Withdrawal Symptoms (Week 2 and Beyond)
Acute physical and psychological symptoms may be starting to get better at this point, particularly the physical symptoms. However, the chronic pain that the Percocet was hiding may be coming back, and cravings are likely to continue for many more weeks.
Understanding Percocet and Its Effects
Before we can get too far into the withdrawal symptoms of stopping Percocet use, we first need to make sure we are on the same page regarding what Percocet is and why it is addictive in the first place.
This background understanding will make the Percocet withdrawal symptoms clearer and help you see why this is such an important matter.
What is Percocet and How Does It Work?
The prescription painkiller known as Percocet is a combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen. When used as directed by a doctor, it is an extremely effective painkiller for patients who are in moderate to severe physical pain.
It should not be used for basic aches and pains, but when severe pain is experienced – such as after surgery – it is often the prescription drug of choice for a doctor to prescribe.
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The Potential for Dependence on Percocet
The problem with this is that Percocet has a strong potential for addiction because of the presence of oxycodone. If a physical dependence on the drug is developed by someone who started out using it to deal with severe pain, the individual will become used to how they feel when on the drug and will start to require it to function in daily life.
Percocet accomplishes its painkilling goals by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which effectively blocks pain signals. It also leads to a “high” feeling, which is a big part of the addiction potential that it carries.
Over time, it is the case for many people that an addiction will develop and severe withdrawal symptoms will become present if the drug is not taken.
How Does Percocet Abuse and Addiction Develop?
Withdrawal symptoms are at the heart of Percocet addiction. When an individual starts to feel the symptoms of withdrawal, they will naturally begin to crave the drug and will be willing to go to great lengths to gain access to it.
Opioid withdrawal is a powerful thing, which is why Percocet addiction is so common and so difficult to overcome.
Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms
There are a number of Percocet withdrawal signs that individuals who take the drug are likely to notice once they stop taking it, or when they take less of it.
Those withdrawal symptoms can be broken down into two categories, physical and psychological.
Physical Symptoms
- Flu like symptoms
- Muscle aches
- Sleep problems
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- High blood pressure
Psychological Symptoms
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability and mood swings
- Restlessness
- Difficult concentrating
Factors Influencing Withdrawal
The two primary factors that are going to influence the experience of a Percocet detox are the dosage and duration of use. Individuals who have been using Percocet for a long time, and have been using significant dosages during that time, are likely to have much stronger withdrawals as a result.
Other factors that will play a role in how long it takes to get through the detox process include the overall physical health of the patient, the method of detox used, and even the support system that the individual has available.
At Ingrained Recovery, our facility offers medically supervised detox and clinicians attentive to both physical and psychological symptoms related to stopping Perc usage.
Managing Withdrawal Symptoms
One of the best ways to deal with physical symptoms like muscle aches is to stay hydrated throughout the detox. The body is going through a lot of trauma while experiencing withdrawal symptoms, so it’s important to at least have enough water in the body at this time for it to work as effectively as possible.
In addition to drinking a lot of water, getting plenty of rest and trying to use relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga can also be of assistance.
Detox Treatment and Support
Knowing how difficult it is to work through a Percocet addiction and the related detox process, it is a wise move to get help before trying to get away from this drug. With professionals available to help with the severe symptoms that are likely to come along, a positive outcome will be more likely.
Medical Detoxification
Medication assisted treatment is a popular way to get through the detox phase of this experience. Percocet detox is not going to be a pleasant experience, but using medications that are provided by a healthcare professional – such as methadone or buprenorphine, things may go a little better.
Behavioral Therapies
Moving forward from the detox, leaning on behavioral therapies – such as the popular cognitive behavioral therapy – can help to deal with the psychological factors that usually are involved with addiction.
Getting Support to Overcome Percocet Withdrawals
Getting through Percocet withdrawals is not an easy task, and once you or a loved one has made it through those initial withdrawals, things will start to look a lot better. That does not mean that the job is done, however. There are still many hurdles to clear down the line, and getting help is the best way to make sure that you stay on track.
As a starting point, reach out to loved ones to get them on your side and be supportive of your journey. Also, support groups are a great resource to use, with Narcotics Anonymous being one of many great options. It also may be suitable to pursue aftercare in the form of therapy and counseling.
This process is never an easy one but it is made far more manageable through the help of qualified professionals and supportive loved ones.
Professional Help is Available at Ingrained Recovery
There is no question that going through Percocet withdrawal is a challenging experience. The physical symptoms, along with the psychological symptoms, make this a difficult process to see through to the end.
Fortunately, you don’t need to go through it all on your own. Getting past Percocet addiction is made easier through the help and support of the right professional team, such as that at Ingrained Recovery.
To get more information about how to get through Percocet withdrawal and move forward with the rest of your life, take a moment today to call our representatives and discuss your needs. We would be proud to play a role in setting the foundation for your successful recovery.
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FAQs on Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms
How long does Percocet withdrawal typically last?
The duration of withdrawal symptoms will vary from person to person, but a common timeframe is from 7 to 10 days.
What symptoms can be expected with Percocet withdrawal?
Anxiety is commonly experienced in this process, along with other physical symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, sweating, and cravings.
Is it possible to detox from Percocet at home?
While technically possible, it is recommended to have professional medical supervision while going through this process. The physical withdrawal symptoms can be strong and potentially dangerous without the assistance of a professiona
