The Blue High: The Rise of Percocet Abuse

Introduction

Percocet is an opioid-based prescription medication commonly prescribed to treat pain. It is a combination of acetaminophen (Tylenol) and oxycodone, an opioid. The drug is highly addictive and is often abused for its euphoric effects. Unfortunately, the prevalence of Percocet abuse has been steadily increasing in recent years. This article will discuss the rise of Percocet abuse and the potential consequences of this trend.

What is Percocet?

Percocet is a combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone, an opioid. It is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. It also produces a feeling of euphoria, which is why it is often abused.

Rise of Percocet Abuse

The misuse of opioid medications, such as Percocet, is a growing problem in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of overdose deaths involving opioids has quadrupled since 1999. In 2017, more than 47,000 Americans died from an opioid overdose. The rise of Percocet abuse can be attributed to a number of factors. First, the opioid epidemic has led to an increase in the availability of prescription medications, such as Percocet. This has made it easier for people to obtain the drug. Second, the cost of prescription medications has decreased, making them more affordable. Third, some people may be unaware of the risks associated with taking opioids.

Risks of Percocet Abuse

The abuse of Percocet can lead to a number of serious health risks. The most common risks associated with Percocet abuse include addiction, overdose, and death. Percocet is highly addictive. It can cause physical and psychological dependence. People who abuse Percocet may develop tolerance, meaning they need higher doses of the drug to achieve the same effects. They may also experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug. Percocet abuse can also lead to overdose. Symptoms of an overdose include confusion, shallow breathing, and loss of consciousness. If not treated immediately, an overdose can be fatal.

Prevention of Percocet Abuse

There are a number of steps that can be taken to prevent the abuse of Percocet. First, doctors should be aware of the risks associated with prescribing opioids and should only prescribe them when absolutely necessary. Second, patients should be educated on the risks associated with taking opioids and should be monitored closely. Third, pharmacists should be aware of the signs of prescription drug abuse and should take steps to prevent it. Finally, the government should work to reduce the availability of opioids by increasing regulation and enforcement.

Conclusion

Percocet abuse is a growing problem in the United States. The rise of Percocet abuse can be attributed to a number of factors, including the opioid epidemic, the availability of prescription medications, and the cost of medications. The abuse of Percocet can lead to a number of serious health risks, including addiction, overdose, and death. To prevent the abuse of Percocet, doctors, pharmacists, and the government must work together to reduce the availability of opioids and educate patients on the risks associated with taking them.