
Maryland Percocet Addiction Treatment
Understanding Percocet Addiction
Percocet is a prescription medication that works as an effective, and potentially addictive, pain reliever. Doctors often prescribe it to manage moderate to severe pain, especially after surgeries or injuries. Because oxycodone is a narcotic, Percocet can affect the brainโs reward system and create feelings of euphoria. These effects can make it addictive, even for those who begin taking it under medical supervision.
Addiction to Percocet often starts with a valid prescription. Over time, a person may build a tolerance and take larger doses to achieve the same pain relief. Some begin misusing the drug to recreate the euphoric effects. This can lead to dependence and, eventually, addiction. In some cases, individuals may begin obtaining the drug without a prescription or turn to street versions of it.
Some Common Street Names for Percocet:
- Percs
- Oxy
- OxyContin (though a different brand name, it refers to a similar drug)
- Roxy
- Hillbilly Heroin
- Ercs
- Buttons
- Blue Dynamite
People struggling with Percocet misuse may begin showing certain behaviors. These can include taking the drug more often than prescribed, hiding use from family or friends, or experiencing symptoms of withdrawal when not using. If you or someone close to you is showing signs of Percocet addiction, treatment options are available.

What Is Percocet?
Percocet contains two ingredients: oxycodone and acetaminophen. Oxycodone is a powerful opioid that changes the way the brain responds to pain. Acetaminophen is a common non-opioid pain reliever found in many over-the-counter medications. Together, they help reduce moderate to severe pain, especially after surgery or injury.
Because it contains an opioid, Percocet can cause euphoria, drowsiness, and a sense of well-being. These effects make it prone to misuse. People may begin taking larger amounts than prescribed or continue using it after their pain has gone away. Over time, this behavior can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
Percocet is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its potential for abuse. Misusing this drug, even once, can lead to serious mental and physical health problems. Continued misuse increases the chances of developing a substance use disorder, especially when combined with other medications, drugs, or alcohol.
What to Expect From Percocet Addiction Treatment
Percocet addiction affects both the body and the mind. At Ashley Addiction Treatment, care begins with a full assessment to understand each personโs physical and emotional needs. From there, we build a plan that may include medical detox, inpatient care, outpatient services, individual and group therapy, and family involvement.
Medical detox is often the first step in treating withdrawal from Percocet. This process helps remove the drug from the body while managing symptoms in a safe setting. After detox, treatment continues with structured therapy to address the behaviors, thoughts, and situations that led to drug use.
Treatment at Ashley includes a mix of traditional and holistic approaches. Our therapists use evidence-based methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to help individuals learn healthier ways to cope with stress and triggers. Holistic therapy supportโsuch as mindfulness, yoga, and other wellness practicesโcan also be part of the process.
The goal of treatment is to help individuals recover from Percocet addiction and build a stable foundation for long-term recovery. Our team includes licensed therapists, medical providers, and support staff who focus on safety, structure, and accountability throughout each step of care.

Is Percocet Addictive?
Yes, Percocet is addictive. As an opioid, it has a high potential for misuse and dependence. Over time, individuals who take Percocet may find themselves needing more of the drug to achieve the same effect, a condition known as tolerance. As the addiction develops, individuals may struggle to control their use and experience withdrawal symptoms if they attempt to stop or reduce usage. These withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, sweating, nausea, and in severe cases, physical discomfort or pain.
- The National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that overdose deaths involving any opioid rose from about 49,860 in 2019 to 81,806 in 2022, then decreased to 79,358 in 2023.
- Among overdose deaths involving natural and semisynthetic opioids (which includes oxycodone, the opioid part of Percocet) the ageโadjusted death rate dropped from 3.5 per 100,000 in 2022 to 2.9 per 100,000 in 2023, according to the CDC.
- In terms of prescribing, data from 2023 show there were about 125 million opioid prescriptions in the U.S.; that corresponds to about 37.5 prescriptions per 100 persons. That rate was about 24.8% lower than it was in 2019, according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS).
Dangers of a Percocet Addiction
Percocet poses significant dangers, particularly due to its opioid content. When used improperly, it can cause respiratory depression, leading to difficulty breathing or even death. The euphoric high it produces can make users want to take more of the drug, increasing the likelihood of overdose. Additionally, Percocet can be highly addictive, leading to long-term physical and psychological dependence, which can impact all areas of life.
The dangers of addiction are far-reaching. Addiction to Percocet can damage relationships, lead to financial hardship, legal issues, and job loss, and cause significant health problems. Long-term opioid abuse can result in organ damage, increased risk of infection, and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. Overdose is a serious risk, especially when Percocet is mixed with other substances like alcohol or illicit drugs.
Symptoms of a Percocet Withdrawal & Detox
Withdrawal from Percocet can be uncomfortable and even dangerous without professional help. Symptoms of withdrawal may include:
Anxiety or Depression
The brain becomes reliant on opioids for mood regulation, so when the drug is no longer present, intense feelings of anxiety or depression may occur, making it difficult for individuals to cope with daily life.
Irritability
Withdrawal can lead to heightened emotions, causing irritability or anger. This emotional rollercoaster can be distressing, making it important to have emotional support.
Sweating or Chills
As the body adjusts to the absence of the drug, the autonomic nervous system may become dysregulated, causing excessive sweating or chills as the body tries to find its balance.
Nausea and Vomiting
Opioids like Percocet affect the digestive system, and withdrawal can lead to gastrointestinal distress. Nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps are common symptoms that can contribute to dehydration and further discomfort.
Muscle Aches or Stiffness
The body often experiences widespread muscle pain or stiffness during withdrawal. These physical symptoms can feel like the flu, adding to the overall discomfort.
Insomnia
Opioids can alter sleep patterns, and without them, individuals may experience difficulty sleeping, leading to exhaustion and further strain on the body and mind.
Increased Heart Rate
As the body adjusts to the absence of Percocet, the heart rate may increase, leading to feelings of palpitations or anxiety. This can be particularly concerning for those with underlying heart conditions.
Cravings for the Drug
The brain becomes accustomed to the reward system activated by opioids, so cravings for Percocet may occur during withdrawal. These cravings can be intense and challenging to resist, which is why professional assistance is important in avoiding relapse.
Signs of a Percocet Addiction
Signs of Percocet addiction can vary but often include:
- Taking larger doses than prescribed or taking Percocet more frequently
- Secretive behavior or lying about usage
- Needing more of the drug to achieve the same effect (tolerance)
- Obsessive thoughts about obtaining Percocet
- Withdrawal symptoms when not taking the drug
- Social, legal, or financial problems caused by drug use
- Neglecting responsibilities, including work, school, or family obligations
- Withdrawing from social situations and hobbies
Counseling for Percocet Addiction Treatment
At Ashley Addiction Treatment, counseling can help individuals overcome their addiction to Percocet. Our counseling approaches include individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy. Our counselors work closely with patients to identify the underlying causes of their addiction, address any co-occurring mental health disorders, and help clients develop coping strategies to prevent relapse.


Inpatient Percocet Rehab in Maryland
Inpatient rehab at Ashley provides a structured, supportive environment for individuals struggling with Percocet addiction. Patients reside at our facility for a designated period, receiving around-the-clock care and therapy. This environment helps individuals focus solely on their recovery, free from the distractions or triggers of everyday life. Inpatient treatment includes detox, therapy, education on addiction, and emotional support to help clients rebuild their lives.
Outpatient Percocet Rehab in Maryland
For individuals seeking flexibility in their treatment, Ashley also offers outpatient programs. These allow clients to attend therapy and counseling sessions while maintaining their daily responsibilities. Our outpatient programs are designed to provide the support needed to achieve and sustain recovery from Percocet addiction.

Supporting Your Entire Recovery
At Ashley Addiction Treatment, our goal is to provide comprehensive, personalized care to support individuals through every stage of their recovery from Percocet addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with Percocet addiction, contact us today to learn more about our treatment options and begin the journey to a healthier, drug-free life. Please reach out to our helpline, available 7 days a week, at 1-800-799-HOPE (4673), or contact us here for more information on how we can help.
