Percodan is a combination drug made of oxycodone and aspirin. Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic (meant for chronic pain management), while aspirin is a salicylate drug designed to reduce pain and fever.

The presence of oxycodone makes Percodan a highly addictive drug that should be used with extreme caution and as per the doctor’s advice. 

Due to its pain management properties, Percodan is usually prescribed for patients in severe pain, often post-surgeries or after sustaining serious injuries. 

And although safe for medical use, Percodan is highly addictive and is, therefore, not recommended for long-term use. 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Percodan, its withdrawal symptoms, and some of the ways to treat Percodan dependence. 

Is Percodan Highly Addictive?

Percodan contains oxycodone, which binds to the brain’s opioid receptors to reduce intense or unbearable pain. 

But as oxycodone binds to the opioid receptors, the release of mood influencing neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin is also altered. This means users will experience a euphoric high whenever they consume the drugs. 

The relaxed feel and euphoria resulting from the altered release of neurotransmitters increase the risks of addiction if the prescription pain reliever is used for long.

Regular abuse of Percodan leads to gradual dependence, which eventually develops into full-blown addiction in a matter of weeks or months.  

And since addicts will eventually lack access to Percodan prescriptions, they’re highly likely to switch to more accessible illegal drugs like heroin. This underlines the importance of treating Percodan abuse and addiction as early as possible to avoid dealing with multiple addictions. 

Signs of Percodan Addiction 

Anyone can get addicted to Percodan. But to ensure that your loved one doesn’t sink too deep into the pit of Percodan addiction, it’s crucial to be on the lookout for the following signs.  

Strong cravings: Strong Percodan cravings, even when not in pain, usually signal the onset of abuse and addiction. 

Difficulties controlling usage: If there’s a genuine struggle to limit Percodan use or follow the doctor’s instructions to the latter, then you (or a loved one) might be developing an addiction to the drug. 

Persistent usage of the drug despite its negative effects: You’ll also know you’re dealing with Percodan addiction if you can’t stop using the drug despite its negative effects in your life, such as strained relationships, laziness, lethargicness, and procrastination.

Increased tolerance: You are likely addicted to Percodan if you need stronger doses to achieve a similar effect. 

Last-minute calls: Chances are your loved one is addicted to Percodan (and other prescription medications) if they’ve started being cheeky about prescriptions (last-minute calls or visiting the doctor close to the end of working hours). 

Suspicious behavior: You’ll also know a loved one is developing a prescription opioid addiction if they suddenly start to ‘lose’ prescriptions or are reluctant to reveal medical records. 

Long term opioid addiction not only affects professional and social relationships, but it also leads to medical issues like: 

• Dizziness 
• Headache 
• Constipation
• Heartburn
• Drowsiness
• Low blood pressure 
• Weakened heart muscle 
• Low libido 
• Reduced sexual function

Consuming excessive aspirin (found in Percodan) usually leads to gastrointestinal injuries like lesions and ulcers. Additionally, too much aspirin in the body affects the function of platelets, which often marks the onset of bleeding disorders. 

You’re also likely to experience breathing struggles if you consume too much Percodan in a single sitting. The reduced oxygen in the system can lead to brain damage while also affecting parts like the stomach and intestines. 

Percodan Withdrawal Symptoms 

While withdrawing from an opioid like Percodan isn’t as tough or life-threatening as other substances, it can prove uncomfortable for most people struggling with prescription drug abuse.

Below are some of the common withdrawal symptoms associated with Percodan: 

• Joint pain
• Insomnia 
• Agitation and anxiety
• Watery eyes 
• Runny nose
• Nausea 
• Diarrhea 
• Dilated pupils 
• Sweating 
• Abdominal cramps 

How To Treat Percodan Addiction 

The first step in treating prescription opioids is through detox. While an addict can opt to detox cold turkey at home, the chances of success are usually minimal as the withdrawal symptoms can lead to relapses. 

As such, it is advisable to detox at a licensed addiction treatment center where you (or a loved one) will receive 24/7 medical attention to manage all withdrawal symptoms.

After a thorough assessment, the medical professional will then evaluate the level of physical dependence and determine the best way to detox. Medication-assisted detox through buprenorphine might be recommended in case of severe withdrawal symptoms. 

Once the detox phase is completed, the doctor will recommend therapy sessions either through an inpatient or outpatient program. 

An outpatient program will work well if you’re dealing with a mild case of Percodan addiction, but for chronic addiction, it’s best to enroll in addiction treatment centers that offer inpatient services.

Is It Necessary To Receive Percodan Addiction Treatment

Since Percodan addiction increases the chances of abuse and addiction to more available illegal drugs like heroin, it is crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible. 

You can contact a licensed drug abuse treatment center to inquire about the services offered and whether it specializes in Percodan addiction treatment.  

And although an outpatient rehab center can help treat Percodan addiction, you (or a loved one) will have better chances of recovery and lifetime sobriety by enrolling in an inpatient addiction treatment center.