Percocet and Alcohol Substance Abuse
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Mixing Alcohol With Percocet: What Are the Dangers?
Percocet is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. It contains a combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone, two powerful ingredients. When Percocet is taken as prescribed by a doctor, it can be a safe and effective way to manage pain. However, there are dangers associated with taking Percocet if you drink alcohol. This article will discuss the risks of mixing alcohol with Percocet.
Percocet is a powerful medication that should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor. Due to its potency, there is a risk of abuse and addiction.
If you are struggling with an addiction to Percocet, help is available. Contact a treatment center like Zinnia Healing today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you recover.
What Is Percocet, and What Are Its Ingredients?
Percocet is classified as a prescription drug used to treat moderate to severe pain. It contains a combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen, both prescription opioid painkillers. Acetaminophen is a common ingredient in over-the-counter pain medications, such as Tylenol, and it helps to reduce pain. Oxycodone is a more potent opioid pain medication similar to morphine, and it works by blocking the signals of pain in the brain.
Some side effects of Percocet include:
- Drowsiness
- Narrowed or constricted pupils
- Slow heart rate
- Respiratory depression
- Weakened or absent reflexes
- Coma
How Does Alcohol Interact with the Ingredients in Percocet?
Alcohol can interact with the ingredients in Percocet and increase the risk of overdose. Mixing Percocet with alcohol can increase your risk of liver damage when the alcohol is combined with acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is metabolized in the liver, and when too much is taken, it can overwhelm the liver and cause damage.
Some side effects of alcohol poisoning include:
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Loss of coordination
- Slowing of a person’s breathing
Lifestyle Changes to Help You Stop Drinking
The best way to avoid the dangers of mixing alcohol with Percocet is to stop drinking altogether. While this may seem like a difficult task, there are some lifestyle changes that you can make to help you stop drinking.
- Talk to your doctor: If you are struggling with alcoholism, talking to your doctor is an excellent first step. They can provide you with information and resources to help you quit drinking.
- Attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings: Many Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings are held across the country. You will meet other people struggling with alcoholism at these meetings and learn from their experiences.
- Get involved in activities: Getting involved in activities that do not include alcohol can help take your mind off drinking. Doing things you enjoy, such as going for walks or playing sports, can help you stay sober.
- Avoid triggering situations: Certain situations may trigger your urge to drink. It is essential to avoid these situations if possible. If you cannot prevent them, try to have a plan to help you stay sober. For example, if you are going to a party where there will be alcohol, bring a non-alcoholic drink and leave early.
- Talk to someone: If you are feeling tempted to drink, talking to someone who can help talk you through it can be helpful. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or counselor.
What Should You Do If Someone Overdoses on Percocet and Alcohol?
If someone overdoses on Percocet and alcohol, it is essential to seek medical help immediately. An opioid overdose can be deadly, and getting the person to a hospital as soon as possible is vital.
If you suspect that someone has overdosed on Percocet and alcohol, call 911 or your local emergency number.
For those looking to be proactive, Zinnia Healing offers many services to help with addiction. These services include detox, inpatient treatment, and outpatient treatment.
Signs of Addiction
Percocet addiction and alcohol addiction can develop quickly, even if a person only takes the medication prescribed by their doctor. Family members or friends who may suspect that someone is suffering from alcohol or drug addiction should look for the following signs:
- Isolating from friends and family: Addicts may start to separate themselves from loved ones as they become more involved in their addiction.
- Loss of interest in hobbies: A person suffering from Percocet abuse may lose interest in activities they used to enjoy.
- Neglecting responsibilities: An addict may start to neglect their duties at home, work, or school.
- Mood changes: An addict may experience mood and mental health changes, such as irritability or anxiety.
- Changes in appearance: An alcoholic may start to look unkempt, and their clothes may be stained with alcohol.
- Changes in behavior: An alcoholic may become more irritable or aggressive. They may also start to neglect their responsibilities.
- Memory problems: An alcoholic may have difficulty remembering things that have happened recently.
- Medical problems: An alcoholic may experience health problems, such as liver damage or pancreatitis.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to those who need assistance. Treatment centers like Zinnia Healing can help you find the treatment options you need to get on the road to recovery.
Percocet Withdrawal
If you or someone you know is addicted to Percocet, it is vital to seek professional help to detox from the drug. Withdrawal from opioids can be dangerous, and it is best to detox under the care of a medical professional.
The detox process involves slowly tapering off the drug over a few weeks. This helps to minimize the severity of withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse. Detoxing under the care of a doctor has many benefits, including:
- Medical supervision: Doctors can monitor your vital signs and adjust the tapering schedule if needed.
- Safe environment: Detoxing in a hospital or treatment center ensures that you are in a secure environment if you experience any complications.
- Support: You will access support from counselors and other staff members during detox.
- Treatment: Detox is usually the first step in a treatment program for addiction.
Treatment Options
Various treatment options are available for Percocet addiction, and the best course of action will vary depending on the individual’s needs. Addiction treatment options can include:
- Inpatient or outpatient rehab programs: These programs can provide detoxification services, individual and group therapy, and other resources to help people recover from addiction.
- Medication-assisted treatment: This approach combines behavioral therapy with medical treatment. Medications used in this treatment include buprenorphine and naltrexone, which can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
- Sober living homes: Sober living homes provide a structured environment for people in recovery, with rules and guidelines that promote sobriety. Residents typically have to follow curfew, attend weekly meetings, and perform chores.
- Aftercare: Aftercare refers to the continued support people receive after completing a treatment program. This can include individual therapy, 12-step meetings, or other support groups.
- Alternative therapies: Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, meditation, massage, and yoga can help people cope with the stress of recovery and promote wellness.
How Zinnia Healing Can Help
At Zinnia Healing, we provide various treatment options for those struggling with addiction. Our team of experts will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs. We offer many services, such as:
- Detoxification
- Inpatient and outpatient treatment programs
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Aftercare
- Alternative therapies
Reach Out for Help Today
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to those who need assistance. The first step is to reach out and ask for help. Treatment options exist, and recovery is possible. Do not hesitate to reach out and get the help you need.
You are not alone in this fight. Alcoholism is a severe disease, and it requires professional treatment. If you are struggling with alcoholism or Percocet addiction, please call Zinnia Healing at (855) 430-9439 or visit our site to speak with a treatment specialist who can help you find a treatment program that fits your needs.