What Are the Symptoms of a Percocet Overdose?

A Percocet overdose is a serious and potentially life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Percocet is a prescription painkiller containing a combination of oxycodone (an opioid) and acetaminophen, commonly prescribed to manage moderate to severe pain. However, misuse or accidental overdose of the drug can lead to a range of dangerous Percocet overdose symptoms, primarily because of the effects of oxycodone on the central nervous system (CNS) and the toxic impact of acetaminophen on the liver. 

Being able to recognize overdose symptoms of Percocet is crucial for timely intervention, as the overdose can quickly lead to respiratory depression, organ failure, or even death. Below, we will explore the various symptoms associated with a Percocet overdose, highlighting the importance of prompt recognition and medical treatment in preventing fatal outcomes.

Moreover, if you or someone you know is suffering from an addiction to Percocet, don’t hesitate to reach out to Muse Treatment. Our Los Angeles addiction rehab center is run by compassionate experts who can provide effective care without judgment.

Can You Overdose on Percocet?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Percocet, creating a life-threatening situation. While Percocet is medically used to manage moderate to severe pain, taking too much of the drug (either accidentally or intentionally) can lead to an overdose.

An overdose of Percocet typically occurs when a person exceeds the recommended dosage or misuses the drug, such as by crushing or chewing the tablets to increase the drug’s effects. The risk of overdose is heightened when Percocet is taken in combination with other substances, like alcohol or benzodiazepines, which can compound its sedative effects.

Percocet overdose symptoms can vary but often include severe drowsiness, slow breathing, confusion, and loss of consciousness. In severe cases, an overdose can lead to respiratory failure, coma, or death. Immediate medical intervention is essential for anyone suspected of overdosing on Percocet, as timely intervention can vastly improve the chances of recovery and survival.

What Happens When You OD on Percocet?

The most dangerous effect of a Percocet overdose is respiratory depression, where breathing becomes slow, shallow, or may stop entirely. This lack of oxygen can lead to brain damage, organ failure, or death if not treated immediately.

In addition to breathing difficulties, an overdose can cause extreme drowsiness, confusion, or even unconsciousness. The person may also experience pinpoint pupils, cold, clammy skin, and vomiting. Meanwhile, in severe cases, an overdose can lead to cardiac arrest (heart failure) and liver damage due to the high dose of acetaminophen, causing liver toxicity. 

Immediate medical intervention is critical if you suspect an overdose. Naloxone (Narcan), an opioid antagonist, can reverse the effects of oxycodone and restore normal breathing. Other treatments may include respiratory support, intravenous fluids, and monitoring for liver damage. It’s crucial to understand that without prompt care, a Percocet overdose can result in permanent brain damage or death.

How to Recognize Percocet Overdose?

Recognizing a Percocet overdose is critical for ensuring that the person receives immediate care from a medical professional. It can be a life-threatening event that can cause permanent damage if not adequately treated. 

So, here are some critical Percocet overdose symptoms and signs to look for:

• Shallow Breathing – One of the most critical signs of an overdose is slow, shallow, or labored breathing. This is a life-threatening symptom because inadequate oxygen can cause permanent brain damage or death.
• Extreme Drowsiness – A person overdosing on Percocet may appear extremely drowsy or sedated, sometimes to the point of being unable to stay awake. This profound lethargy can progress to a state of unconsciousness or coma.
• Pinpoint Pupils – Small, constricted pupils (called miosis) are a classic sign of opioid overdose. The pupils may be so small that they are nearly invisible in low light.
• Disorientation – The person may appear confused, disoriented, or unable to think clearly. In severe cases, they may have difficulty recognizing familiar people or places.
• Clammy Skin – The individual’s skin may feel cold and clammy to the touch.
• Nausea – The combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen can upset the stomach, and vomiting is the body’s attempt to expel the excess substances.
• Weak Pulse or Low Blood Pressure – The heart rate may slow down, and the person may have a weak or irregular pulse. Low blood pressure (hypotension) may also occur, leading to dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness.
• Loss of Consciousness – This can happen when the CNS is depressed to the point that the brain cannot maintain normal functions.
• Liver Damage Symptoms – Since Percocet contains acetaminophen, an overdose can lead to liver damage. Liver damage can look like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, abdominal pain, or swelling.
• Severe Fatigue – The person may experience extreme fatigue or muscle weakness and have difficulty moving or maintaining balance.

If you suspect an overdose, it is essential to act quickly and call for emergency help. Timely medical intervention, including the administration of naloxone and respiratory support, can be life-saving.

How to Prevent Percocet Overdose?

Preventing a Percocet overdose requires careful management of the medication, adherence to medical guidelines, and awareness of the risks associated with opioid use. 

Below are several strategies to reduce the risk of a Percocet overdose:

• Take Percocet Only as Prescribed – Always take Percocet precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase the dose, take it more frequently, or use it for more extended periods than directed. Additionally, the risks of snorting Percocet can be severe as crushing it heightens its effects, increasing the potential for overdose.
• Avoid Alcohol and Other Sedatives – Do not mix Percocet with alcohol or other sedatives like benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium, Xanax). Mixing these substances can increase the risk of respiratory depression.
• Monitor for Signs of Misuse – Taking Percocet in ways other than prescribed can increase the risk of overdose. If you feel you may be developing a dependence or are tempted to misuse the drug, talk to your doctor about alternative pain management options.
• Use Naloxone if Necessary – Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, including those from Percocet. Family members and friends of someone using Percocet may also consider keeping a naloxone kit in an emergency.
• Consider Non-Opioid Alternatives for Pain Relief – Talk to your doctor about non-opioid medications or therapies that may help manage pain, such as physical therapy, acupuncture, or non-opioid pain relievers (e.g., NSAIDs like ibuprofen). Opioid medications should be used for short-term pain management, and long-term use should be closely monitored due to the risk of dependency and overdose.

Preventing a Percocet overdose relies on safe medication use, clear communication with your healthcare provider, and awareness of the risks associated with opioids. 

Contact Muse Treatment to Learn More About Percocet Overdose Symptoms and Addiction Treatment Options

If you or someone you know is struggling with a Percocet overdose or addiction, it’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Muse Treatment offers support for individuals facing opioid use disorder and can provide valuable information on Percocet overdose symptoms, as well as treatment options for addiction recovery. 

With a team of experienced medical and mental health professionals, Muse Treatment can guide you through recovery, offering personalized treatment plans that may include detox, counseling, medication-assisted therapy, and ongoing support. Don’t wait to contact Muse Treatment today at 800-426-1818 to learn how we can help you or your loved one regain control of life and begin the path to recovery.

External Sources

• MedlinePlus – Opioid Overdose
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – Opioid Overdose
• Wisconsin Department of Health Services – Dose of Reality: Opioid Overdose