Doctors often prescribe Percocet and Vicodin for pain, which are medications that both have a high risk of severe addiction. Unfortunately, this problem can take over a person’s life in many ways. Therefore, it is critical to understand the debate between Percocet vs. Vicodin. Doing so can help you understand the dangers of these drugs and how therapy can help you avoid adverse physical and emotional troubles.
Differences Between Percocet vs. Vicodin
When discussing Percocet vs. Vicodin, it is critical to understand the nature of these substances. Percocet is a combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen, while Vicodin combines hydrocodone and acetaminophen. The second ingredient in each of these potent painkillers helps manage inflammation. It also dulls the intensity of each opiate a little to avoid problematic concerns.
Doctors prescribe each of these medications to manage acute or short-term pain problems. Often, people who go through a painful surgery need these types of pain relievers. However, those with terminal cancer or other deadly diseases may use them for a long-term period. You can take both in tablet or liquid forms, and both produce a potent relief of pain.
That said, Percocet is considered the stronger of the two medications – around 1.5 times more powerful. As a result, it is often prescribed only in extreme situations, or when Vicodin does not work. Unfortunately, the abuse risk of both of these substances is quite high due to their potentially addictive nature. Therefore, it is critical to understand this element to compare and contrast the two.
Why People Abuse Percocet vs. Vicodin
Opioid abuse typically occurs when a person becomes addicted to the sensations caused by this drug. For example, they may become physically addicted if their body comes to rely on it to feel healthy and stable. An addiction can occur even with properly prescribed and used medications and can be very devastating. However, others may develop a psychological problem, triggered by:
- Depression – The soothing effects of Percocet and Vicodin can manage many depression symptoms
- Anxiety – Opiates help to manage stress by calming the mind and body
- Risk-taking behaviors – Those who enjoy risky activities may abuse Percocet or Vicodin
- Addictive personality traits – Anybody with these characteristics may abuse these substances
- Perception problems – Some people with perception issues may abuse opiates to calm their mind and focus their reality
These addiction problems occur both with Percocet and Vicodin. However, because Percocet is more potent, that means it could trigger addiction more quickly. Additionally, it also usually causes more physical harm, such as a slowed heart rate, decreased mental acuity, and slower breathing. Unfortunately, it may also be more likely to trigger an overdose in those who abuse it.
Drug Rehab May Be Necessary
No matter what the outcome of the Percocet vs. Vicodin debate, rehab treatment is crucial. Opiates like these have a way of taking over a person’s life and making it more difficult. Withdrawal, for example, can be extremely painful and even life-threatening for many. Thankfully, detox in a qualified facility can ease those symptoms and make a recovery easier during inpatient care.
However, physical withdrawal is just the first step. Next, a person needs to assess why they abuse opiates in the first place. Emotional and psychological problems often compel many people to use drugs. Working with treatment specialists in a rehab facility helps to assess these problems. Once you’ve identified these issues, it is possible to treat co-occurring disorders and much more.
After rehab is over, the hardest step begins, which is lifelong sobriety. Relapses are often a part of this process. As a result, aftercare treatments may be a requirement. These options focus on managing a person’s abuse triggers after rehab. It takes on many forms, including outpatient care, psychological counseling, and even behavioral adjustments. By working with these therapists, it is possible to eliminate the dangers of addiction for good.
Managing Addiction Problems
If you need help in the Percocet vs. Vicodin debate, please call us at 1-866-824-5193 today. At Atlantic Recovery Center, we have a small facility with a very intimate atmosphere. Our professionals focus on providing caring help to those who need it in both outpatient and inpatient facilities. So please make sure to verify your insurance before you schedule an appointment to get started on the path to recovery.