Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms + How Long Do They Last?

August 2, 201413 min read

Percocet is a drug that was developed to include a combination of oxycodone and paracetamol. It is a drug that was approved in 1976 and is primarily utilized to provide pain relief for individuals with moderate or severe short-term pain. It is federally classified as a “Schedule II” controlled substance, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse and it could lead to psychological and/or physical dependence.

Many people who use Percocet notice that it works extremely well at providing pain relief. Although its intended to be utilized for treatment of pain, some people take it recreationally to “get high.” Among the individuals who take it recreationally, it is very easy to get addicted; it provides an initial boost in mood and is known to induce feelings of deep relaxation.

Based upon composition it is thought to be slightly easier than oxycodone withdrawal; a substance included in Percocet. That being said, anyone with a high tolerance may end up dealing with an array of debilitating symptoms when they discontinue Percocet.

Factors that influence Percocet withdrawal

When discontinuing any opioid, there are going to be various factors that influence the severity of withdrawal. These factors include things like: time span over which the drug was taken, the dosage you took (which influences tolerance), whether you are addicted, how quickly you tapered off of it, as well as other individual factors such as: physiology, environment, social support, etc.

1. Time Span

How long have you been taking Percocet? In general, the longer the time span over which you’ve taken this drug, the more difficulty you are going to have facing withdrawal. When you take an opioid for a long-term, your body gets used to receiving the drug on a daily basis. If you stop taking it, your nervous system may become extremely sensitive and/or go into shock – which can lead an array of symptoms.

Those who have taken the drug for long periods of time have likely built up a tolerance and are on higher than average doses. People who have only been on the drug for a short-term to deal with some immediate pain shouldn’t have too tough of a withdrawal process.

2. Dosage + Tolerance

Percocet is produced by Endo Pharmaceuticals at a variety of dosages. It is important to note that Percocet tablets also come in six different combinations of oxycodone and acetaminophen. Each has a different maximum daily dose. In general, the greater the dose of the drug that you take, the tougher it will be to deal with withdrawal.

Pink (oval): 2.5 mg Oxycodone / 325 mg Acetaminophen – Maximum daily dose of 12 tablets.
White (round): 5 mg Oxycodone / 325 mg Acetaminophen – Maximum daily dose of 12 tablets.
Peach (oval): 7.5 mg Oxycodone / 325 mg Acetaminophen – Maximum daily dose of 8 tablets.
Peach (capsules): 7.5 mg Oxycodone / 500 mg Acetaminophen – Maximum daily dose of 8 tablets.
White (oblong): 10 mg Oxycodone / 325 mg Acetaminophen – Maximum daily dose of 8 tablets.
Yellow (oval): 10 mg Oxycodone / 650 mg Acetaminophen – Maximum daily dose of 6 tablets.

For the smaller doses of 2.5 mg Oxycodone, the standard dose is 1 to 2 tablets every 6 hours as needed for pain relief. All of the other higher-dosed tablets have a dosing protocol of 1 to 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain.

When you take higher doses of this drug for an extended period of time, you can develop tolerance. In other words, you take the same dose, but the pain relieving effects have worn off. When tolerance is established, a person typically increases their dosage. The only downfall to this is that the greater the tolerance, the more difficult a person tends to have dealing with withdrawal.

3. Addiction

Many people unintentionally become addicted to taking Percocet. They take the drug to relieve pain, but then when time comes to quit, they realize they need the drug for functioning. This is a drug that can provide an initial very potent antidepressant effect in addition to providing relief from anxiety. People may feel so deeply relaxed and “good” while on this drug, that they may have a difficult time giving up the psychological effects.

Additionally, some people can become addicted to the physical effects that the drug provides. It is a depressant, meaning it relaxes the nervous system and stimulates endorphin production. The body’s natural endorphin supply eventually becomes temporarily reduced as a result of taking this drug. Many people cannot cope with the temporary increase in pain that they may experience when withdrawing.

4. Cold Turkey vs. Tapering

Did you quit taking Percocet cold turkey or did you conduct a gradual taper? Conducting a gradual taper is thought to help reduce the intensity and duration of many withdrawal symptoms. Tapering gives your nervous system some time to gradually adjust to reductions in dosages. If you quit cold turkey after extended usage, it may shock your nervous system, and in turn may lead to more severe withdrawal symptoms and an extended recovery.

It should be noted though that many people do quit cold turkey with success. Although the acute phase may be intensified, it is possible. There isn’t really a risk of deadly withdrawal effects associated with “cold turkey” withdrawal. Another option that you may want to pursue if you are unable to taper or quit cold turkey is “opioid replacement therapy.”

5. Individual Factors

It is important to consider various individual factors that can influence the withdrawal process. These factors can include things such as: environment, social support, dietary and exercise habits, as well as genetic predisposition. Certain people are naturally less prone to severe withdrawal symptoms than others and/or recover at quicker rates. It is important to not get too caught up in comparing the length of your withdrawal to others.

Percocet Withdrawal Symptoms: List of Possibilities

Below is an extensive list of symptoms that may be experienced upon withdrawal from Percocet. Keep in mind that you may not experience every last symptom on this list. You should also know that the intensity and duration of symptoms will largely be based on the individual.

Abdominal cramps: One of the more notable symptoms that people report during withdrawal is cramping in the abdominal region. If you notice an intense stomach ache or cramp when you initially come off of this drug, just know that it’s part of the process.
Anger: Don’t be surprised if you are prone to negative moods such as anger. When going through withdrawal, many people experience low moods and report feeling especially crabby. The longer you have been off of the drug, the more this should improve.
Anxiety: Many individuals report high levels of anxiety when they stop this drug. The anxiety that you experience is somewhat a response of the nervous system. It had become accustomed to receiving the Percocet, which acted as a depressant with anxiolytic effects. Stopping the drug tends to produce the opposite effect of anxiety for awhile.
Appetite changes: Some people lose their appetite during the acute phase of withdrawal. You may notice that your appetite is poor and food is difficult to eat. Take the time to make sure you are focusing on proper nutrition as this can help speed up healing.
Chills: Feeling chills and other jitters is something that many have reported. This can be accompanied by sweats and possibly a fever. Chills are usually an acute symptom and shouldn’t last for more than a couple weeks.
Concentration problems: You may find it very difficult to concentrate on any tasks including school or work-related functions. Many have reported that they feel as though they are in a trance-like state or have major brain fog; making it difficult to think clearly.
Confusion: A combination of concentration problems and other symptoms may result in feeling general confusion. Usually this is a result of slowed cognition and mood symptoms that accompany withdrawal.
Crying spells: Some people may become so depressed that they end up having crying spells. This isn’t to be confused with simply having “watery eyes” which is also a very common symptom of withdrawal.
Depersonalization: If you feel unlike your normal self, this is referred to as being “depersonalized.” This is can be caused by abnormal neurotransmitter functioning, endorphin levels, and brain activity following discontinuation. Eventually you will slowly transition to feeling more normal.
Depression: Most people report feeling mild or moderate depression when they stop Percocet. This is a drug that can provide some individuals with an initial mood boost. The endorphins that are released while on this drug can produce feelings of euphoria. When the drug is stopped, endorphin levels are lower than average, and it can take some time to feel decent again.
Diarrhea: A lot of individuals experience constipation while taking Percocet. When they stop taking it, the exact opposite can occur, diarrhea. If you are struggling with this symptom, be sure to pick up some over-the-counter Imodium and consider giving it a shot.
Dizziness: Feeling dizzy after your last dose? Some people experience an intense dizziness and/or vertigo sensations that seem to never go away. Although the dizziness can be tough to deal with initially, it will eventually fade.
Fatigue: The fatigue associated with discontinuation can leave certain people bedridden until they regain some energy. Working a job, doing work around the house, or trying to stay productive can seem like an impossible feat. As your endorphin supply is rebuilt, your energy should improve.
Fever: In the acute stage of withdrawal, some people get fevers. This is merely a physical reaction from your body to the detoxification process. After a few days of rest, your body temperature should gradually drop.
Flu-like: Most individuals withdrawing from this drug feel like they’re dealing with the flu for the first week or so. This involves experiencing a fever, dizziness, headaches, nausea, and vomiting. It may seem like a wicked sickness, but you’ll recover.
Goosebumps: Another common opiate withdrawal symptom is that of “goose bumps” or little bumps at the base of hair follicles on the skin. These are a physical withdrawal symptom that may seem somewhat unusual if you don’t know what to expect.
Headaches: Some people experience mild headaches, while others have throbbing migraines. Percocet can actually provide headache relief and when it is stopped, you will likely experience some sort of headache. Do your best to stay hydrated, relaxed, and get plenty of rest to reduce the intensity of headaches.
High blood pressure: In some cases, people notice that their blood pressure experiences a significant spike upon discontinuation. If you have had problems with hypertension in the past, you should consult a doctor to monitor it.
Insomnia: While some people may have no difficulty falling asleep, many people experience a significant degree of insomnia. If you are unable to fall asleep, in part this may be due to neurotransmitter changes and/or anxiety associated with your experience. Consider taking melatonin and work towards relaxation via deep breathing and other exercises – this will help lower your arousal.
Irritability: Some people find themselves feeling especially grumpy and every little thing makes them upset. If you are irritated with very insignificant things in your environment, this is likely mood related. As your body begins to relax again, your irritability should improve.
Itchiness: Your skin may be very itchy when you stop this drug. Itchiness is thought to be an overreaction from a sensitive nervous system. Many people mistake the itchiness for a rash, when it’s usually caused by nerve fibers under the skin.
Mood swings: One minute you may feel angry, the next severely depressed. Usually mood swings during withdrawal tend to be negative. Eventually though, positive moods will begin to breakthrough and your moods will stabilize; it just takes time.
Muscle aches: Many people report muscle aches and pains when they stop Percocet. If you feel body aches, just know that it’s part of the process. You may cramp up, notice joint pain, etc. – this will eventually go away.
Nausea: You may feel sick and very nauseated throughout the day. The nausea can be mild, but may be intense which could lead to vomiting. This shouldn’t last more than a week or two following your last dose.
Palpitations: These are sensations that your heart is beating abnormally loud and/or racing. If you don’t know what to expect, you may think you are having a heart attack and/or this may lead to further anxiety.
Panic attacks: If your anxiety reaches an extreme, you may be prone to experiencing panic attacks. These are incidents characterized as intense waves of anxiety that lead to panic. Just know that if you do not normally experience panic, it’s just part of withdrawal.
Pupil dilation: Taking Percocet will constrict your pupils. When you come off of it, your pupils may be dilated and appear abnormally large. This is something to be aware of so that you don’t further panic.
Restlessness: Some people feel restless and are unable to relax and sit still. It is usually fluctuations in arousal level from a sensitive nervous system that causes this symptom. Take the time to engage in some mild exercise and consider something relaxing like meditation to help offset this symptom.
Runny nose: Your nose may run like a faucet during the initial stages of withdrawal. You may want to have some extra tissues around to deal with this problem.
Sleep changes: You may notice that sometimes you sleep too much, while other times you cannot fall asleep. Your sleep cycle may get totally thrown for a loop during withdrawal. Don’t expect a perfect sleep cycle, but get sleep when you can. Eventually this will improve.
Suicidal thinking: If depression gets bad enough, you may feel suicidal. Some people have such a difficult time coping with what they are experiencing that they become hopeless. If you feel hopeless and suicidal, seek professional help. Realize that your mood will eventually recover and that this is merely part of the withdrawal experience.
Vomiting: Some people get so sick during withdrawal that they end up vomiting. This can be largely influenced by nausea and other flu-like symptoms. Most people will not be vomiting after the first week.
Watery eyes: Your eyes may be full of water and you may catch yourself tearing up. This is normal to experience. Although it may be uncomfortable, you will eventually notice that your eyes stop dripping with water.
Yawning: Do you notice yourself yawning even when you aren’t tired or bored? If you have a bad case of the yawns, it is likely related to withdrawal. Many people have noted that they cannot stop yawning even weeks after they’ve stopped the drug.

Note: It is understood that Percocet stays in your system for less than 24 hours after your last dose. Its metabolites may take slightly longer to clear from your body, but most people excrete them within 2 days of stopping. Some speculate that once the body clears itself fully of the drug (and metabolites), discontinuation symptoms become most prominent.

Percocet Withdrawal Length: How long does it last?

The length of withdrawal is subject to variation based on the individual. Someone who has taken Percocet everyday for years is likely going to have more extreme symptoms than someone who has only taken it for a short duration. Additionally it should be noted that some people naturally are less sensitive to withdrawal than others and have more resilient nervous systems. There’s really no “exact” time period that you can expect withdrawal to last.

In most cases, the acute symptoms last between 7 and 10 days. Typically the first few days following your last dose of the drug are when you’ll exhibit the most extreme symptoms. The active ingredients in Percocet are oxycodone and paracetamol. Each of these has a half life of approximately 2 to 4 hours, meaning that the drug should be completely eliminated from the body within 8 hours following your last dose. Although your body may be drug-free, it is when the drug completely leaves your body that the withdrawal symptoms begin.

It is during this time that your nervous system is scrambling to make adjustments because it is no longer receiving the drug. Following the acute stages of withdrawal can come a protracted phase. The protracted withdrawal, also referred to as “PAWS” (post-acute withdrawal syndrome) can last anywhere from weeks to months following the acute symptoms. The protracted withdrawals can involve both physical and psychological symptoms.

Keep in mind that although you may have taken Percocet for an extended period of time, your brain and body will eventually heal. It may take some time for your body to reestablish proper endorphin function due to the fact that opiate use depletes your natural endorphin levels. To facilitate a quick recovery, it is recommended to engage in light exercise, eat healthy, consider supplements, attempt to stay productive, and have some social support.

When you initially go through opiate withdrawal, it may feel like you are never going to get better, but you can fully heal. It’s likely not going to be an overnight process, so focus on making it through one day at a time. The more time passes, the closer you will be to making a full recovery. If you have successfully withdrawn from Percocet, feel free to share your insights and experience in the comments section below.

Reader discussion (69)

Previously published reader comments are preserved below. New comments are not currently being accepted.

AndyOctober 7, 2014
Hello, in January I was recently diagnosed with a bulging disc in my back. I was prescribed percocet, then vicodin, then percocet again. All in all you can say I was on them for a good 7 months. Prior to this, The only drug I've ever tried was alcohol. I started taking them recreationally after I started feeling the euphoria. My doc only told me to take them when the pain was unbearable. I was only taking them 1-3 a day but it would be to the point where I would only take them to get high. One day I would take percs, then the next day Vic's. When I started to slow them down I noticed I suddenly started feeling dizzy at first. Then after the dizziness came hot skin, vomiting after I ate, fatigue, weakness, agitation, anxiety, and depression. I did a cleanse and took a lot of vitamins, I'm coming up on 2 weeks in which they will be completely out of my system . As every day goes by, I start to feel better and better. These pills are serious, and aren't nothing to play with. My advice would be not to take them unless you have severe pain, because what I went through I wouldn't want anyone to go through.
TeresaSeptember 25, 2015
Thanks so much for your comment. It really has helped me to read this, because I know that there is hope to get off of these percocets. I have been on them for 10 months 4 day 10 milligrams each and I get 120 a a month and it seems I take more than what I am supposed to, due to the fact I like the feeling of not hurting anymore. Last week Dr did a urine test and called today and said there was not enough in my system so he can no longer prescribe narcotics to me. These withdrawals are terrible and I don't know if I can make it. I cannot believe a doctor would cut you off just like that, but he probably thought I was selling them but I wasn't its just when they did the drug test I didn't have enough in my system because I have done 120 pills in 11 days and they're supposed to last 30. I need help. I'm going to go to see them next week and I'm going to be upfront and honest with them that I have been taking too many but they cannot take me cold turkey. But thanks for listening.
NiesyJanuary 25, 2016
Hi Teresa thanks for sharing your story. I was on opiods I and off for 8 years. I suffered a chronic pain condition in my bladder and back. I built a tolerance and ended up taking more too just like you. I ended up getting help. I went to a therapist and took suboxone it helped with my withdrawals and now I am pain free and medication free. You cannot do this alone. Make sure you tell your family and friends what you are dealing with so they can take care of you. You can do it and once you are off I promise you will feel amazing. No longer trapped or controlled by the opioids or the doctors. You can focus on you and just getting healthy. Email me if you need to talk. I am pain free and mediation free and so so happy. Niesy
MagiMay 10, 2016
Hi Niesy - Thanks so much for sharing your story also. Question: Regarding 'pain free & medication fee' today... How did you accomplish it, once off the opioids and the doctors'? Our issue is severe pain from hip and back problems - so I was just wondering if you'd gone the naturopathic arena, chiropractic, or some other? Any info you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
Pamela LinaresJune 12, 2016
Niesy, I would love to talk. I need a friend. :) Pam
RoseJune 23, 2016
Please let me know how you dealt with getting off these percs! I am not doing well.
BryanJuly 6, 2016
I have taken percs for a year and a half and quit cold turkey. Let me preface this by saying, I live in China and can buy them wholesale as much as I want, about $1.50 per 5/325). When I first broke my leg and was in the hospital, I asked for this medicine (not my first rodeo with pain meds, but it's been years) and they told me that this is the maximum dose they usually give to CANCER patients ONLY in China! They gave me the meds like I asked, 2 pills 3x a day. When I got out of the hospital I felt like total crap (3 weeks) with no meds, so I went seeking (actually had an assistant/GF who was very adept at this and did not like seeing me in such agony so I semi-blame her, even though I knew well what I was getting myself into). After one and a half years and I was up to taking 60! per day! (I don't know how my liver is still functioning). I literally would open a box of ten, and eat them all at once, and barely get a buzz. Made me chain smoke and feel like I could do anything, but tolerance kept going up. I, like a genius, tried switching to heroin for about two months and that completely wiped me out financially and in every other way possible. I would find myself afraid to fall asleep sometimes when I'd nod off, because I thought I might not wake up. Finally, I burned (ripped off) my heroin dealer real good to cut that supply off, and went back to the percs, which did almost nothing after doing H, except keep me from getting sick. Quit cold turkey and it was pretty bad (psychologically I was in hell because of a lost job, a new baby, and a host of other reasons). I stocked up on Imodium and that helped with the stomach and diarrhea/nausea. I've been taking valium and xanax for about a year so I had that anyway for anxiety. It took about three weeks for me to start to feel "normal" again. It's like exactly after three weeks, I felt the energy come back and I was ready to get to work, get moving, get motivated to do something. Prior to quitting I had bought 800 pills and was in the process of taking them all to kill myself when a friend unexpectedly showed up and I tearfully confessed what I was doing/had been doing, and handed all the pills over to him. I know I'm rambling here, but... Anyway, I quit and stayed quit for about two and a half months, but just felt kinda miserable and like something was off. I felt bad, but I DID NOT WANT TO GO THROUGH THE WD AGAIN! I ended up partying really hard one night with a friend, and the next day, as a hangover cure, bought 50 pills, and it started again. That was two and a half months ago, and now I'm past 72 hours of being perc free. My main problems I have each time I quit is overwhelming FATIGUE & DEPRESSION. I was taking 60 per day again, and I've not felt so horrible, I get some sleep with the help of Valium, mirtazapine. But... It's just a matter of getting through the initial crappy phase and then getting into a good routine of nutrition, exercise, and sleep. I have trouble doing this, because I tend to drink alcohol or whatever out of boredom or maybe anxiety, and so I've never really experienced true sobriety, for any length of time. I have a very negative view of this all. If my son weren't just born six months ago, and I can't do it to him, I would gladly, with no regrets, have taken my life. So, out of guilt and I can't live with myself and being THAT selfish, I've got to stick it out... Luckily, I have a pretty easy, stress-free life, and don't need to work much and can just take the time to just lay around the house and be lazy and lethargic. I feel very sorry for those who aren't so fortunate. Make SURE to get some Imodium, and maybe a benzo - Valium/Xanax, etc. to help with the anxiety and insomnia. That's all you need. Drink water and try to lock yourself inside and lay in bed. That's the easiest thing to do, and the one that we REALLY want to do, but it's the worst thing for us. Keep your body and mind active. That's part of the reason I'm writing this now... Hang in there.
TerriJanuary 24, 2018
I am more concerned with not being able to work my new job. I don't know if I should try and taper off rather then cold turkey. I am afraid if I stop I will be to sick to work and if I taper it will just make me have a excuse to continue usage. Please advise!
AdamMay 13, 2016
Thanks for sharing. I will spare you all the details but I was put on 10-325 for my back. They helped my depression and anxiety. Aaaaand for the first time in 15 years my IBS went away. The problem is now I have to take them to feel good. I woke up this morning and didn't want to take any but I had to because I was so dizzy and my lips felt numb!!! Now I've gone from feeling better than I ever have to being super depressed and not wanting to wake up. I obviously want off them but it's so painful when I try. I don't have the power to do it on my own! I'm afraid to tell my wife because I don't want her to know I'm addicted.
anonymousAugust 2, 2016
Adam, Try not to be afraid to tell your wife, I'm sure in her gut she already knows something is off and is fearing the worst, your honesty will be a blessing to her and help increase trust in the long run. Good luck!
AJ SimkatuSeptember 23, 2016
You should tell your wife and your doctor your concerns. Your wife deserves to know your thoughts and struggles. There is no shame in using painkillers to remain pain free and there is no shame in admitting that it's difficult to stop using them. That's how they work. If you quit taking them your body goes into shock and pain and depression and anxiety that only taking another dose will end. So the cycle continues until you finally decide once and for all to be done with them. You might try writing down the reasons you want to quit using Percocets. When you're feeling bad and really tempted to use them again, then go back and read the reasons why you want to quit. Do you want to do better in school, at work, be a better husband, be a better father? Those reasons can often help you remember why you need to push through the pain and quit.
JoeJuly 26, 2016
The absolute best thing I did for my withdrawal from Percocets was go to a Doc that prescribes Suboxone (Buprenorphine) and use it to taper down from it. It is a strong opiate but will completely relieve all withdrawal symptoms immediately and you will feel good. Taper off the Suboxone slowly over a month or two and you will come out like nothing happened. Some Docs charge a lot for this, but shop around. It is physically and emotionally worth it and you cannot get high on any opiates while taking Suboxone. Plan ahead if you can… Also, you have to be already in a mild to moderate withdrawal from whatever opiate you're taking so that the Suboxone doesn't put you into an immediate state of withdrawal. (Sort of like going from normal one minute to immediately into severe withdrawal). The doc will tell you this. Also, you will start by taking just a very small dose at first so that this doesn't happen. Just be prepared to not take the opiate you are addicted to for a while longer until you begin to feel a little crappy or more, then you can take the Suboxone without any problems. It is actually like going from a bad addiction to just about normal in an hour or less… But then you must taper off the Suboxone as well. Don't stay on it because it also can be a bad withdrawal if doing it too fast after using it for too long. If used correctly, it is almost a miracle…Like going from an addicted fool to normal in a couple hours while on it, because it doesn't get you high, just makes you feel normal.
Jazmin HandyOctober 17, 2014
I started taking Percocet 7.5/325 because I have 3 blown out discs and a pinched sciatic nerve which caused me extreme pain. I was taking 2 every 3 hours to calm the pain, now I am out of them and don't get another prescription until a couple weeks. Now I have a hard time sleeping, I'm uncomfortable, I cry because I feel like complete sh#t and I just don't feel myself, I hate it. I'm going through it and I don't know what to do !
jjOctober 28, 2014
For starts, if your 2 weeks short then that means your taking more than your prescribed. Been there done that, what to do is... when you get your new script remember this feeling and think its always better to have some than none!
JulieApril 29, 2016
Thanks for your honesty. I'm in the same position as you. I took them recreationally years ago. Gave me energy to complete tasks. But then my injuries became serious. Spinal cord compression in my neck. And sciatica in my low back. Now I take it for pain and it's never enough to tolerate my pain. I had 2 discs removed Feb 1. Now the pain is worse. I have other things like I had two kinds of cancer in the last 8 months. Thanking God that I am completely free of that. Now kidney stones for the 2nd time in those 8 months and peripheral artery disease. All these things cause pain. My limbs are still numb as before the surgery and my pain sometimes is greater than before and it was already severe. I don't know what else to take instead. I take perc 10/325. I can't tolerate the pain & end up taking too much & run out early. I used pain clinics for the past 18 years since I first hurt my neck. I don't want anymore procedures and that's the only way they will treat me. I'm overwhelmed. Not depressed. There is a difference. About to have surgery again. This time, prolapsed bladder and urethra. All thus in past 8 months!
JJuly 25, 2016
Thanks for making my situation seem so easy (although I'm very sorry to hear about yours). Your story will help me get through today for sure.
jaceNovember 6, 2014
I started taking percocet about 2 years ago I was taking 5 milligrams just one in the morning I would get them from my parents house both of them are on percocet. One became two, two became three, so forth and so on to where I was taking 8-10 a today this one on for over a year and a half. I found that my parents were suffering because they were running out a week before the next prescription was available. It's hard to see something like that and realize you're the cause! I quit cold turkey and the hardest part of it all was just the knots in your stomach from the aggravation of wanting it so bad. But luckily I was at a point where I couldn't get any for a week so I had no choice but to suffer through it. The first three days were hell... diarrhea, cold sweats, and I found myself laying in my bed biting my pillow. I am a barber and the percocets when I was taking them made the day go by so much quicker, conversations so much better. So trying to cut hair while going through the withdrawals was absolutely hard. If there would be any way possible, I would suggest taking a week off from work. Please keep in mind after day 3 it was a little bit easier. After about a week and a half I feel like the old me was coming back. Its been over 2 years now and I would be lying to you if I said I never thought about them since then because there's not too many days that it doesn't cross my mind. Opiates are a horrible horrible thing when they are abused, so if you can make the commitment to yourself and to your life to quit and understand that it's going to be hard, believe me the nagging feeling will go away. Please don't take this lightly. You must want this to happen. What I found worked for me was drinking plenty of fluids and reading anything to take your mind off of what you're feeling. I wish you all the best of luck. Most important thing I can recommend is to pray about it!
DMay 23, 2015
Hi, I was diagnosed with dystonia and have extreme pain have been taking hydrocodone and Percocet for 8 years I decided to quit and started tapering but hit a wall. I used to take 20 10's a day. I have weaned to just 6. I'm on day 4 and its been hell. Sh*tting, sweats, and feeling horrible. I hope I'm on the home stretch, haven't slept at all, but hopefully I can get through this.
TheresaJune 1, 2016
I'm not sure if everyone has had the same issues but I've been on vicodin or Percocet for over 8 years. I have chronic pain bad for my back and cystic fibrosis and pancreatitis. I have lowered the does from 3 a day to only one pill of 5mg/325mg and have been having major sweats. Xanax seems to help but I don't take it unless I need it though a couple of glasses a wine a week seems to take the edge of. This isn't the best thing and don't think I'm abusing either just if I don't take the Percocet like I'm supposed to the pain hurts but then I have withdrawals. I wish they could find another treatment for a chronic 34 year old that doesn't want to go through withdrawal.
aJune 25, 2015
I started taking Percocet two years ago after two knee surgeries...I quit cold turkey and am on day number two! I would take 3-4 per day 5/325. I like your advice about reading and praying! I think this will help me a lot. Thank you.
JenOctober 28, 2015
Hi, I am going through the withdrawal symptoms right now and it feels completely unbearable at times. The worst is physically I'm started to feel better mentally I am so anxious and depressed. Someone told me just take it day by day and if that's too much then hour by hour!! I really hope there's a light at the end of the tunnel here because the depression is extremely discouraging!
KendraJuly 8, 2016
I'm a 28 year old female... I first started about 3 years ago... I got prescribed vicodins 7.5 mg for migraines. Taking a full pills was too much for me so I would take a half. At first I barely touched then now I end up finishing my 90 script in a month. My boyfriend is prescribed percocets 10mg for herniated discs and when I ran out of mine I would take his. Again, I take a half at a time. But I take about 2 pills a day. When I don't take one I feel depressed, I have this antsy feeling throughout my whole body, I just wanna cry. I'm over feeling the need for these pills. I want to stop. I stopped for a few weeks before but then once I took just one pill, I was hooked again. I've tried taking a benzo for symptoms and I feel it makes it worse. Help please?
TrishNovember 9, 2014
I have been on percocet 10/325 for over a year after I knocked a glass of milk over and when the pill box hit the floor they all dissolved. I didn't expect to stop cold turkey. My dr is 3 hrs away and Friday he leaves at noon. I couldn't make it there by then. Withdrawals were horrific I had seizures and couldn't walk. I seen things that wasn't there. After a night of seizures I'm hoping the worst is over.
JaqNovember 24, 2014
I've had 9 spinal surgeries over the past 10 years. I have been on Percs since 01. I am taking up to 6 a day depending on how much pain I'm in. I space them out two every 6 hours. Lately I'm feeling like I can't live without them. Does anyone have any suggestions on what I should do or how I can make this go away?
MikeKDecember 3, 2014
I took two 5/365 Percocets a day for two years to overcome spinal stenosis pain -- especially at bedtime. I never had a problem with need more until a severe lumbar problem developed, which caused me to beg the Dr. for 10/365s times a day. I've been using these 10s for two months now and have become conscious of a developing addiction. So I dropped down to 3x 5mg three days ago, which is half of 3x 10mg. I have some flu-like symptoms and insomnia. I intend to wean down to 2x 5, then 1x 5, then nothing. Does that seem like a good approach to kicking this drug?
Leo d lionFebruary 11, 2016
Yes it is. Wean down is the best way. You'll notice some detox and shorter duration. And in the meantime, do something you enjoy, could be eating ice cream, taking a road trip, etc.
GloriaDecember 9, 2014
I had knee replacement surgery and they put me on percocets. At first I was taking 6 a day and then I went down to about 3. Then it was maybe 1 or 2 a day. I had heard about withdrawals but didn't think I would experience any. WRONG!!! I started not liking how they made me feel so I decided to stop them. Well needless to say I have felt like I had the flu for 6 days now. Sneezing like crazy, body aches and diarrhea. But I want to be off them so bad that it is worth what I am going through. I have learned a very valuable lesson. I still have pills left but no desire to take them. Hang in there everybody the outcome is much better than living on those pills. I still have pain but I will use ice or some kind of rub.
CatheeMarch 28, 2016
Thank you I've been on them on and off 5 mil then 10 mil first Vicodin now Percocet I'm experiencing withdrawals today and I'm doing pretty good so far. No vomiting but diarrhea and sleeping, depression and just feeling blah. I'm going to try to never take them again. I had knee surgery eight years ago and 4 months ago hip replacement so I have moments when everything hurts but I'll have to,figure it out. I felt it was getting addicted but didn't want to admit it to anyone let alone myself. So I'm in prayer and just trying to sleep it off as much as I can. I pray I never have to have pain pills again. They're not the answer. Trust me. I'm so glad my children don't take pain pills for the injuries they've had. They don't even take aspirin. So whatever people do watch the doctors and don't let them give you pain pills.
DaveDecember 10, 2014
Opioid withdrawal from any narcotic will involve flu-like or cold like symptoms for up to 2 weeks. Exercise will make you feel a hundred percent better after that time. If it is possible for you to do it reduce your dose by 20% per week to minimize these symptoms.
GloriaDecember 13, 2014
Dave, I thought about tapering off but I just wanted to get off them. I am at day 9 and feeling better I just tire easily. I push myself to do everything because I want to return to normal. I go for small walks and lift weights a little everyday. I am so afraid if I have the other knee done that I will have to go through the same thing with the pills.
GloriaDecember 18, 2014
Day 15 and feeling much better. Still a little diarrhea but not to bad. Better to be going than constipated. I pray for everyone going through these withdrawals but hang in there you can do it.
AdamDecember 29, 2014
I have kicked Percs several times in my life. I started because of a hip injury received while I was in the military. While they eliminated the pain, the happiness and self assuredness I experienced while using was FAR more addictive. I stopped in April, then had a relapse in September. It is now December 29th. While I don't crave them anymore, I still feel lost, alone, sad, disconnected. I hope this goes away at some point. Any thoughts?
JodyMarch 31, 2016
I can understand fully what you are talking about. I quit them cold turkey and after 2 weeks I felt back to normal. Then a person came over and said try snorting them and that was the end of my success for stopping. I was able to concentrate. Have more energy. But I lost a lot of weight. I did a 5 mg this morning but now I am done. I have been through the withdrawals before and I am going through them again. Last night even after doing a 15 I had the sweats all night and couldn't sleep and had the diarrhea episodes today. I didn't do a whole lot every day but I feel the withdrawal symptoms coming back again and know what to expect. You will get better. It's getting past the first couple days that is the worst.
Estrella PerezMarch 10, 2017
I'm on day 4 w/out Percocet or Gabapentin. I'm crying all the time for no reason. Everything is sad to me. I took Percocet and Gabapentin for about 1 month and never again! I hope this will be over soon so I can resume my life. You will be fine but it may take a little time. My best to you all and good health.
AprilDecember 30, 2014
I recently tapered myself off percocet as well as all of my other medication. (Muscle relaxers, anti inflammatory, etc) I was first prescribed percocet 5 years ago for herniated discs and sciatic nerve problems. Eventually at my highest of dosage I was taking 6 10's a day. That was on top of 3-4 somas, 3 anti inflammatories, and gabapentin (sp?). I am on my 3 rd week pill free and every day is different. I was able to come off everything pretty easy. I tapered off by myself. It takes incredible willpower, but I knew it was something I needed to do. I am in my 20's and have a child of my own. I started thinking long term, things like I don't want to have serious liver failure in 10-15 years because I took so many pills in my 20's. So I made the decision that it was in my best interest to stop taking them. I spent about 2 months slowly tapering off. Each week I would adjust my dose down until eventually I was only taking half a percocet a day. I had insomnia the first few nights, then slept great the next week but now it seems like insomnia is coming back as well as restlessness. My stomach still gets queezy and nauseous. I am incredibly excited to be off pain medication tho and can't wait until the symptoms are completely gone and I am back to normal again. My advice to anyone is that if your running out of your meds early....STOP that's a huge red flag. I have been there myself so many times, but you have to realize if you're taking more then you are supposed to, then you are taking them for the wrong reasons. Yes we all started taking them for pain, but they do make you feel good. How many of you have been "busy" or whatever so you take another pill to keep you going. You just have to ask yourself, "what are these things doing to my body?" Anyways...I wish everyone good luck. My legs are starting to cramp now. ;)
Jen WilsonMay 8, 2015
I quit cold turkey yesterday. I feel awful, like I have the flu. Headache, insomnia, muscle aches, and diarrhea. I was taking 8-10 10/325 daily for about eight months. How long will I feel this awful?
DeanJanuary 5, 2015
Diagnosed with multiple abdominal neuroendocrine tumors and a previously undiagnosed broken back/displaced spine from fifteen year old college football injury. 10/325 five times a day led to non-recreational but still very serious and dangerous overuse/abuse. After a year on the pills as prescribed mostly, the last few months before quitting saw me taking 20-30+ per day. Stopped cold turkey on 12/27/2014. Definitely had the chills, cold sweats, diarrhea, and for three or four days what I describe as BY FAR the worst flu-like symptoms I've ever had - so bad that my girlfriend really wanted to take me to the ER each of the first few days b/c she wasn't fully aware of my perc usage. Did not tell my GF the extent of my perc abuse so my sudden complete personality change has very much upset and I believe scared her. I'm worried that if I admit the numbers I was taking she will leave me but realize that the way I've been acting as I went through withdrawal that she may not want to stay anyway. Especially early in my cold turkey stop, I acted like a complete and utter A-hole to my girlfriend in our bed as I squirmed and shivered and lay in a pool of my own sweat and runny nose gunk. She did nothing at all to warrant my verbal attacks. She was being sweet and loving and I threw everything she said back in her face with some A-hole comment added on for no reason--which really upsets me. Now I've basically locked myself in our tiny guest room for the past five days so as not to hurt her feelings with my erratic and mean and I feel completely uncalled for mean words. Finally, last night my cold sweats, chills, fever and all other horrendously awful flu-like symptoms seem to have stopped for good. Fingers crossed I've made it over the hump! I'm starting to smile and laugh again which I take as a huge indication I'm almost there... Good luck to everyone else stopping these pills too - you can do it!!!
DevanMay 27, 2015
I have been taking percs for roughly 3.5 years due to a massive back problem and recently ran out 2 weeks prior to my prescription refill because I clearly didn't pay attention to how many I was taking. I've decided to try and fight through the back pain and withdrawal symptoms and get myself off of these! In order to somewhat keep the withdrawal symptoms from getting out of hand I have been taking Tylenol with codeine to help with the jitters and restlessness. It actually makes a significant difference! I still get sweats and am easily irritated but not as bad and it helps with the sleep. Either way it's tough no matter what. The biggest issue I'm having is my significant other doesn't seem to understand what I'm going through even though I've explained my situation over and over again but doesn't seem to matter apparently I'm just a dick so unless yours is understanding good luck!
KimDecember 30, 2016
Devan your post just made me laugh. Thank you for that. My worst fear is that I'm going to push the people (and cats) I care about most away from me because of my irritability and grumpiness. I have been reading funny articles and listening to upbeat music and that has helped me get through the initial phase of withdrawal. Also muscle relaxers that help with restless legs and insomnia and Imodium and ibuprofen and Gatorade are a must! Keep your head up people the worst has already happened it can only get better each day (and night). Stay positive as much as you can and look into vitamins to help with depression and mood like serotonin, dopamine, vitamin B, olive extract, fish oil, vitamin D, St Johns Wort. Research is crucial just do what works best for you and be gentle with yourself. You are not alone.
TomJune 30, 2015
I was prescribed percocet 7.5 mg at 4 per day 6 months ago for severe lower back issues. I recently had a spinal for the back pain which worked well and decided to get off percocet. Like other posts the withdrawal for me was quite unexpected. They included dizziness, tinnitus, feeling stuffed up, muscle pain and weakness. This lasted for about 7 days with the first 5 days being the worst. This was a big lesson learned about the risks of narcotic pain killers.
LAMAugust 12, 2015
Been on Perc for years now, for pancreatitis (2-3 per day 10/325). I've been so careful to make sure the drugs weren't taking over control. I would intentionally suffer for a day here and there to prove to myself I was still ok. For me, it isn't an option to never take them again, so I needed to make sure I was in control. But I've recently noticed several red flags. I would run out before the month was over. I was taking them as preventative measures instead of to stop existing pain. And I was justifying things to myself. I wasn't taking them for the high, as that feeling has been gone for a long time. The last time that I withheld for a day, I knew things had changed. I had many withdrawal symptoms. So now I am trying to come up with a balance. I still need them daily. But don't need as much as I've been taking. So I'm having to go through withdrawals every day because I'm quitting and starting back every day. I've gone from 20-30mg per day down to 10-15. But it's hard. It's a very difficult balance to maintain. So afraid to discuss it with my doctor because I'm terrified that she won't give them to me anymore. And there is no way I can live with pancreatitis without something to control the pain. BTW, I've had it for 14 years and after 6 surgeries, there's nothing more that can be done for me other than try to make me as comfortable as possible. So I'm going through new withdrawals every day - every time I've reached that 8 hour threshold between doses, and not giving myself the usual amount. Any recommendations out there, given my unique situation?
taraAugust 14, 2015
Hi I have been recreationally taking Percocet for aver a month now. I was talking 2-3 a day of 5/325. Now it has been two days without and I now realize that I did create an addiction and I am having some flu like symptoms. I can't afford to miss anymore work but I have booked the weekend off. Is there a chance that the withdrawals will wear off in that short of time since I wasn't talking them that long or am I in for the 1-2 weeks of what I am feeling today? Any other advice on what I can do to lessen the time of recovery? thank you
Ms. "T"September 1, 2015
Having taken endocet 10/325 for the past year. Over 4-5 pills daily, I succumbed to cease all dosages completely. Now day 3, I have the restlessness, goosebumps, loss of appetite and insomnia. Not to mention the worst case of fatigue and diarrhea. Gatorade has been my best friend! I will master this and regain control over oneself 100%! Stop cold turkey and I know it's going to be challenging but if you really want to make a change GO FOR IT!!! Over time it'll be surely worth it!!!
AmyOctober 30, 2015
I have been on Tramadol 50mg 4 x day for 2 months now. I finished my prescription 2 days ago. I began to feel like crap with in 24 hours. A friend of mine said I shouldn't of gone cold turkey off the tramadol because I would experience some bad withdrawals and I didn't believe her (I was told by my doctor that if I took my tramadol as prescribed I would not have withdrawals when I was finished with them)... well needless to say he lied! So my friend gave me 5 perc 10s and told me to break them in half and only take 1 half a day to ween myself off completely. She said that will help some with the withdrawals and that it shouldn't be so bad once I'm done with the percs she gave me because it's such a small dose and I haven't been on this medication long enough to feel horrible withdrawal from it. My question is will I be ok once I'm done with the percs? As of today 10/30/15 I haven't been on tramadol for 48 hrs so I'm sure it is out of my system and I feel kinda crappy, but nothing as described in these forums. I'm sure going from 200mg tramadol a day to 5mg perc a day is a jump but I don't want to be on this medication anymore. I have experienced some withdrawal (abdominal cramps, little depression, and since stopping the tramadol I've passed my bowels) I was constipated before but now I'm not. (I guess that's a good thing lol) I'm just scared that once I'm done with the Percocet I'll be suffering. I've never gone through withdrawals before so any insight will greatly help. Thanks so much!! Amy
MikeNovember 5, 2015
Three years ago,I was taking 10 to 12 Percocet a day. I was running out way before my next refill. his got to be too much. The suffering was traumatic. Every month I would go through massive withdrawals, until I got my next refill. One day I decided that I had enough and just quit Cold Turkey. I still had plenty left over. It was the best thing that I've even done to help myself. The pain and anxiety was horrible, but I knew that in a week or so that I'd feel 100% better, which I did. I still have back pain, but use Excedrin for relief. It really works well. If you can get through the first few days, you are on your way to recovery. Please don't cave in. Pray a lot and find some friends or family to support you; it is well worth the initial suffering to get to the other side and be free from opiates of any kind... Take it from me, your life Will change for the better, and you'll start to feel like living again. Good Luck and God Bless You.
VNovember 25, 2015
Can I just add that while you're going through WD, take out some headphones and play your favorite music. It releases natural endorphins even when you're depleted. 3-5 days of hell is worth a lifetime of freedom. Best of luck.
JayDecember 26, 2015
Been 100 hours since I stopped taking Percocet but still not feeling good mentally. I have been taking five because mom's day for couple years. Are you guys thinking that I am almost there? Or pretty soon I would feel better? Thanks
Done!!December 27, 2015
Ok here's my story...Today is Sunday Dec 27th and it is my Day 5 with no Percs. I have taken 10-15 10mg every day for about 8 years. I have ruined my finances and made up my mind to STOP before Christmas. I got some Suboxone film and here is where I stand. Last I took any Percs was Tues 12/22 @ 2pm. I woke up Wed morning about 6am and took half film. I took 3 more halves for a total of 4 halves on 12/23 and 12/24. On Christmas day I took only 3 halves and yesterday I took only 2 halves. I am in AWE of how this stuff works. I told my wife that based on everything I read online, that the "show was bound to drop", but it hasn't!!! I've had some weird moments and a little diarrhea but other than that I'm good!!! STOP READING THESE COMMENTS AS GOSPEL! If you REALLY WANT TO STOP, get the SUB and go for it. I cannot believe that I am now 5 Days clean!!! I have to go to work tomorrow and I am a little nervous about it, but I'm going to do it! If I can, you can. Percocet was my life!!! Every day my first thought was how many do I have, will I need to get more, and how much money is left to BLOW. I did this for many years.
GJanuary 10, 2016
After reading through these comments I'm concerned for my husband who's decided to stop taking the Percocets he's been on since Nov. 2nd, after the first of 2 knee replacement surgeries. The second was on Dec. 14th. He stopped yesterday and had several of the symptoms I've read about. Most of you don't have a whole lot of good things to say about the experience. I'm just wondering if we should contact his Dr. to see about a replacement pill to help him get through this? He's still in a lot of pain from the 2nd surgery. It hasn't been an easy ride for either of us the past few months and now to deal with withdrawal on top of it? I don't even want to think about it. Well, if anyone has had and easy time of it that would be nice to hear about. Maybe it won't be so bad? I'd like to think positively about the situation.
Big "B"January 23, 2016
"G" - He hasn't been on them long enough for you to fret! You're talking just over two months? With 2 knee replacement surgeries?? So what's the problem? Cut him a break and go through with detox ASAP- before it becomes a problem!! Even it it's a couple of unpleasant weeks - GET HIS LIFE BACK NOW!!! DON'T WAIT - I accidentally got hooked on this Percocet poison after having a wisdom tooth extracted. And like all the others, after the first experience of not liking them, the euphoria feeling was just too good stop. That was January, 2012 and it started innocently, but I have been HOOKED on this crap (10-325's) for FOUR (4) long years now! I am finally "prepping" for my turn to what sounds like suffering to get off this crap. I will miss 2-3-even 4 weeks of work if I must. I take 2 - 4 of the 10/325's per day. Miraculously, I don't "abuse" them like some of the ridiculous amounts I've read above, but I am CLEARLY DEPENDENT / ADDICTED ! My Doc says wean off slowly, which I cannot do... I'll be back to report my "progress" - but I am having lower back surgery in March and I am NOT SURE when I will stop. I better though, before my liver caves in!
BILLFebruary 9, 2016
I am on day 9. I was using percocet 5mgs and it turned into 2 be 160mgs a day since I found someone where I could get them from. I went through all the symptoms. I am still not 100% but am almost back to my happy self... It can be done. I have used for 3 years straight and went cold turkey. I took a week off work to get better. Good Luck to All!
SusanFebruary 23, 2016
I have 4 lumbar discs that seem to have crumbled up with one of them herniated. After over 30 years of recurring back pain trouble things finally went totally last spring. I got a doctor's appointment in September, and was put on vicodin. That does not work on me so a month later was placed on Percocet (5's). Christmas was awful as I did not know I could even take 2 of those. I thought I felt better in February after being on 4 10's a day since January 19th and without knowing any better I went "cold turkey" Feb 7th. I was never told how these things worked. The day I decided to go off Percocet my spouse said going cold turkey was a bad idea. I tried calling the doc and got no call back. I had a very rough week, terrible diarrhea, nausea, could not eat. Today is 16 days later, still some diarrhea, a lot of nausea, low grade fever, and depression. Will this ever end? I am supposed to have surgery on my back in a month and a half. Took that long because I chose a surgeon who is supposed to be very good. There is no way waiting this long helps. I did not feel high or even pain free on that percocet, the most I can say is that it got me a couple of nice naps every day. I had to quit swimming last fall because I could only walk bent almost in half and lopsided, making it from the car to the wellness center pool wore me out and made more pain. They need to get people in for surgery sooner. I never had any euphoria, never took more than prescribed and feel like a dope for going cold turkey. I am going to try to beg off that kind of drug after surgery. This is awful. I am in my late 60's and never knew about this sort of thing. I advise people to insist on a thorough conversation if you get put on opioids. Sitting in a nice warm bath helps pain, sleeping with a pillow between knees. I wish I had tried wine! And get yourself to a doc sooner than I did! A good one.
CharlieMarch 19, 2016
I just want to leave a comment to help people who may be in a similar situation to my own. I suffer from severe pain from a neurological disorder. (The myelin sheathing of my nerves were somehow destroyed in/around my eyes, the worst, causing severe eye pain that feels like a massive headache) that prevents me from even wanting to open my eyes. It also causes burning sensations in other areas of my body but I could live with that. The eye pain kept landing me in the ER though. I finally went to a pain management specialist that helped me. But after being deemed a schedule II drug I've found all Dr's are too afraid to prescribe pain medications to people who legitimately need it (I, as well as others I've known, have contemplated- or enacted- suicide to relieve themselves of the misery of living with severe, chronic pain. Before pain management dozens of Dr's tried me in other drugs - some of them while *knowing* I had an allergy to them, but figuring they'd try again just to make sure (putting my life at risk due to the legitimate concerns of Percocet abuse). They even gave me a medication that landed me in urgent care at a hospital for several days. Finally, a pain management specialist started seeing me. He lets me take a small dose of Percocet at night when the pain is at it's worse (after using my eyes all day). I can tell you now that when I am in severe pain, I feel no "high" from Percocet - but if I try to ward off pain that I feel coming on, I do get the sensation and understand why people begin to abuse the drug. So I understand. I sympathize. But please, to those of you who feel you may be abusing it, please don't. It makes it harder for people in legitimate pain to get relief when there's so much stigmatization surrounding the medication. A side note: two years ago, before my pain was this bad, my best friend was hospitalized with lung cancer. He was in so much pain after it spread and they refused to give him more than 10mg opiate a day. He actually had zero desire to live the pain was so unbearable. He refused chemo, he refused radiation, he just wanted the pain to stop. He died 6 months later. The excuse the Dr's gave was that it was highly addicting. I honestly believe he would have tried to live if he could have gotten out of bed from pain relief. Please for the love of those who truly suffer, if you're not in pain and becoming addicted, talk to your health care professional. Let them help you. Don't contribute to the negative stigmatization of the drug in the minds of your doctor - whose next patient may be in legitimate pain and lacking other options. (Excuse typos - txting this from my phone).
HowardApril 14, 2016
I had TKR (Total Knee Replacement) on January 4th. I was prescribed 90 for a 30 supply. Actually the knee pain diminished quickly but I took the pills anyway. I am finished with my post op and have gone through OP PT and joined the health club. I am 67. My last pill was taken on Tuesday, 4/12 and I am now in my 3rd day without. I am experiencing all the symptoms listed, mostly stomach discomfort and insomnia, anxiety, etc. I still use cannabis to dull the discomfort. I am hoping to complete this within a week, after 3.5 months of medication. I am due to my other knee done January 2017 and will handle that differently, I can tell you. Life goes on. I went to the health club yesterday, pulling myself out of bed to fight the bed ridden feel sorry for myself attitude and felt better after just 30 mins of treadmill, then hot tub and shower. I will try to repeat today and stay active. Hoping for the best. And the best of luck to all; of ya'll in similar situations.
John VaughnApril 18, 2016
I was addicted to percs for over two years. Just like everyone else, got prescribed for post spinal fusion surgery. Took them as I was supposed to for awhile, then quickly began to take more and more every day to enjoy the euphoria. Was taking 10-12 10/325s a day, usually in morning all at same time. While high I felt like I was a better person. Nicer to people, friendlier, funnier, etc... I would run out two weeks before my next refill and go thru withdrawal every month for almost a year. Finally said to myself this was no way to live and I had to stop the madness. Day 1. Not bad, little anxiety and nervousness of overcoming this Day 2. Diarrhea started with a vengeance, stomach cramps, severe restless leg, insomnia (not one minute of sleep for four straight days) and terrible anxiety and depression Day 3. Everything is worse than day 2, want to die Day 4. Feel hopeless, no relief in sight Day 5. Slowly getting a little better Day 6. Physical symptoms much better, still dealing with anxiety, depression, and insomnia Day 7. Today, I feel physically ok but time just seems to crawl... I know I can get through this, just have to keep fighting. Have no desire to use again. Good luck, you can beat this beast. You can overcome this, it will pass.
Lillian WallsMay 21, 2016
It's been a month since I went "Cold Turkey" off percocet that I had been on for three years. The first 30 hrs were the hardest, then 24 hours after that I felt like a had the worst case of the flu. The third day I actually got out of bed for just a little while. I never slept more than a few minutes for the first 7 days but it really never felt like I hadn't slept very much. My head was clear, my tastebuds were alive and everything I ate had a stronger taste. The second week I knew I was getting better because I started sleeping more and actually feeling better. Now a month has passed and feel better each day except I still do not have any energy. I was one that never stayed seated more than a few minutes and now I force myself to get up and do things. Hoping I have a full recovery soon.
JayJuly 15, 2016
My last day using was on July 5, 2016. I was taking 400mg of oxycodone a day. Which is way too much. I started with 10mg 3 years ago with everyday usage gradually ending at 400mg. I grew a high tolerance for them. I went to a detox facility on July 6 and cane home July 11. I had to stop because in reality that one more pill can cause an overdose. Regardless how many your taking at once. The detox facility helped with the withdrawal symptoms. They used methadone maintenance to taper me off of them. Starting at 30mg of methadone to 2.5mg on the 5th day. They also gave me anxiety medicine in low doses and ibuprofen for the pain. I really think that the detox facility helped me to not give up the 2nd or 3rd day of not using. If you try to cold turkey without detox at a facility with professional supervision it is going to be really hard and you will wish to go back to using really quickly. I t is the worse feeling and you feel like your dying. I would really recommend if in your city there are detox facilities to take advantage of them. Your are under supervision and the nurses and Doctors there will try to make you comfortable as much as possible. That was the hardest part. Now on day 10 of me not using I feel down and agitated. I am still going through some muscle aces but I bought over the counter ibuprofen. It is difficult to sleep at night so I've tried meditation which help me relax. You can go to youtube and search "powerful relaxation meditation music." You should buy ear buds if you can and put them in while listening to the meditation music. Breathe deeply in and out and It will help you relax. If you can be by yourself with quietness it can really help. Especially if you have children. You really want to try and take time to yourself if possible and know that your are so "worth it." You deserve to be clean, happy, and normal. I always wished to be normal, happy, and active. We just have to know it will take some time but the strength is in you I promise. I never thought I'd be 10 days clean and all I can think it will get better. Wanting to take a percocet has popped up in my mind of course especially when I'm emotional and irritable but you have to believe you hold the power. I refuse to be another statistic. It is not your fault you became addicted. The things in society are set up for you to fail I assure you. Be strong know you can do it and you will start to admire that fight in you. Never wish you were someone else bc you are unique so embrace it and know you deserve to have a normal healthy life. Stay strong believe that you will eventually feel better. Don't rush into things your health is more important. Remember that using percocet can cause overdose if not using correctly. You will never know if taking one more pill then what your used to can be your death call. Mentally you are strong you just might not see it. Peace and Love to any one struggling to get off an addiction. Take care of yourself.
ElizabethAugust 6, 2016
I went for my monthly pain clinic appointment on Friday. Letter on the door said the facility was permanently closed. No warning! So this is day 2 off of perc 10s for about 7 years. I feel like I am getting a cold.
DeanSeptember 1, 2016
I was on oxycodone 15mg tablets taking 30-45 MG daily for 7 years I always made sure not to exceed 45 daily, and I finally decided to quit even though I was legally getting them for pain. I quit cold turkey and am now on day 8 mentally I have no desire to use at all, first 4 days where rough RLS and no sleep or appetite, but most of my physical withdrawals are gone already I feel a lot better. I am active but my worst withdrawal symptom is insomnia I can't sleep although I am tired I get 3 hours a night and this is causing me to be extremely tired during the day and I feel is holding me back from moving forward. I am trying melatonin pills but still find it difficult to sleep, I hope I can get past this insomnia soon.
CariOctober 24, 2016
I'm so disappointed and angry. Like most, my intro to opiates started with legit back pain and I let it get to a point where I was taking 60 10/325 Vicodin daily. Of course I was obtaining them illegally by then. Got arrested, took suboxone and was clean since 2011 after a many year habit- fast forward to now. I had two back surgeries and was on high doses of Percs since April. Of course my old ways crept back In and my habit was back with a vengeance. I managed over the last few days to wean from 8 a day to 3 and I am sick as hell. My poor husband is taking so much abuse because he's holding onto my meds (per my request) and my anger/ anxiety and aggravation are almost to a point I could hurt someone. I haven't even stopped them yet! I'm not going back to subs because that's a WD too that you don't want to experience but I'm struggling. I guess it irks me that he has no idea how this feels and he blames me. I do too but that leaves me with zero support. If I didn't have kids this would be enough to push me to end it all. I hate myself for letting this happen again. I'm saying prayers for every desperate heart tonite.
Debbie KlassenOctober 28, 2016
I had back surgery in 2010 and was on 4 #10 percocets daily along with 150mg Nucynta twice a day. After being on narcotics for 6 yrs I decided I didn't want this "ball & chain" any longer. I never abused the medication. I never got a high from the medication. I was treated like a criminal because I took these meds and when my insurance cut me off cold turkey from my medication so I could prove I wasn't addicted and need (after being on Nucynta for 3 yrs), that was the last straw. I decided there and then I was getting off these drugs. I went to You Tube and studied how to get off narcotics, for a week. I decided to do it the taper way. Because I had been on the drug for 6 yrs, I knew my withdraw would be bad so instead of cold turkey, I tapered. I'm disabled so I had the time to take. I cut by 1/2 pill each time and the process for each cut took 2-3 weeks. So the combined time it took for me to get completely off was 6 mos! It was tuff!! Tough because I was miserable for up to 14 days with each cut. I would experience, chills, sneezes, anxiety, depression, exhaustion, pain pain pain!!, insomnia, heart palpitations, pounding heart, nausea, shakes, grumpiness... and it all lasted 6 mos! Today, my leg pain that I was using narcotics to treat it, is so much better. The drugs was making my legs hurt worse! My mind has cleared up! My memory is better. It's not perfect but I'm feeling much better off the drug than I did on it. It's (narcotics) not a good long term chronic pain treatment. Today I take a muscle relaxer and ibuprofen. That seems to help me within reason.
LisaNovember 3, 2016
Help! I was taking 18 10/325 Percocet a day. This is day 23 with no relief. I am wearing a Fentanyl patch of 50 mg. Please please tell me when life will be better. I have been on high doses for 10 years.
ChristopherDecember 20, 2016
Hello to my fellow abusers of narcotic pain medication: It's beautiful while on this prescription, however... it is a BEAST to get off. I was introduced to this poison when I had a weight lifting injury. I recovered from my injury but became very addicted to Percocet 10/325. It was years after my injury and I was STILL able to continue to see my Doctor and keep getting the meds because I became a wonderful actor. (I was taking 6-8 daily). Long story short... I said the hell with this and needed to stop this train immediately or I was F****d! I am only 50 and I did not want to live like this anymore; the feeling of something over me just to get through a single day. I didn't know who I was anymore. This drug made me someone else. Period... OK ...enough of this, lets get to the TRUE withdraw portion. WOW. The toughest, but the best thing I ever did for me, my wife and children. I quit COLD TURKEY. NOT FUN. I did not sleep the first 72 hours... maybe a quick cat nap for 20 minutes during the day while working (almost lost my job). Anyway, it took me several weeks to finally get a decent nights rest at bedtime. But all the other symptoms above are VERY REAL AND TRUE! I will not repeat everything above but its all a fact. IT WAS A BEAST. I SWEAR TO GOD I WISH I HAD BEEN HIT BY A BUS... But... But... Time is a beautiful thing. Stay strong. Stay focused. Your body will eventually adjust to the dramatic change it's going through, again. BE STRONG!!! DO NOT GIVE UP! GET THROUGH THE FIRST 5 - 7 DAYS. Those days are the worst, but it will get better and better and better. GET BACK TO BEING YOU. GET BACK TO BEING A NORMAL YOU! It's a very tough road to recovery when you go cold turkey, but it's VERY doable. please just do it... OR IT WILL EVENTUALLY TAKE YOUR LIFE. Good Luck, God Bless and Have Faith. Sincerely, a heavy user and a recovered happy person. DO NOT LET THE DEVIL WIN. HAVE STRONG FAITH. Because you will hear the devil whispering in your ear for the drug. Remember that... FAITH. You will be alive and stay out of prison. GOOD LUCK!
Carlos QuirinoFebruary 13, 2017
I had knee surgery and took Percocet for 3 months. I took only 1 a day every other day for physical therapy. I have stopped for 3 & 1/2 weeks. My only symptoms are some insomnia and mild depression. I'm getting better every day. Just wondering when I'm totally going to be normal again? Thank you for your time.
MarlaMarch 3, 2017
Wow! I was led to this site because I asked if being on percocet to long was why I was feeling all achy and chilled. Now I realize that it's because I am trying to take less. I have been taking 5 sometimes more or less a day for three months from having a broken wrist. Thanks for all your comments and info. I hope this is the worst I will feel. But now I will admit to myself that it is hard to take less. I still feel pain but not severe. I want to take a perc just to take the edge off of this mild pain. I will attempt to withhold taking unless it gets worse. I am feeling a bit addicted to it.
MarlaMarch 10, 2017
Since my last comment it is now day 9 without any Percs. Days 1-7 were really bad with chills and aches. Day 7 my wrist pain was needing relief. I called a tele-health hotline and spoke with a nurse quite experienced with withdrawal symptoms. I was so proud of myself for holding off until I could confirm the answer to my question. Question was that if I just took one or half a Perc to relieve the pain, would my body start the withdrawal all over again. She was quick to say "don't take it, and yes, the symptoms will start from beginning again." I do not want to go through this again so she encouraged me to stay strong and gave support telling me I should be very proud that I have come this far on my own. I so needed this encouragement. Became very tearful and cried for a long time after hanging up. But held off taking the pill. Day 8 I was tearful all day. Today day 9. I feel less aching and I hope on my way to some normalcy. So anyone here who is thinking "just one to help me through." Don't do it. Hang in there and be strong. You can do it. I have an addictive personality and I did it.
Jeremy ThompsonMarch 13, 2017
I am recently kicking Percocet and I went cold turkey and my anxiety went through the roof and I'm facing depression now. I'm just 72 hours in completely sober and I don't have the desire to take a shower or dress up which I do daily. Good thing I don't have a job to attend and I can sit around and chill. I haven't taken these pills but for only a few months. I had to manage how I took them due to drug test a few times a month but decreased to once a month. My worst part of the day is in the morning when my anxiety acts up. I'm wondering how long my anxiety and depression will flare up after not taking any.
Loretta WilliamsMarch 18, 2017
I've read all the response and it helped me a lot. I've gotten into an accident where I had surgery done and the doctor prescribed me percs. At first I wasn't a big fan of it and then slowly I started to take it just to not feel sad because I did have family issues etc. I slowly started to wake up and had terrible lower back pain and it gradually gotten worse. I usually took only 2 in the afternoon and 2 before bed. Certain days I take 2 at noon then 2 in the evening and then 2 before bed. It slowly got worse. I started getting percs on the streets. At a certain time I couldn't get them because no one had them so basically I was forced to go cold turkey. The first few days were horrifying. Today is my 10th day of being clean and I am honestly proud of myself. I can take you through the days. Day 1: I felt very dark emotionally I did not want to live anymore. I had muscle aches, severe back pains, cramps, headaches etc. Day 2: I had diarrhea and did not feel like myself at all. I was miserable and felt very alone. The withdrawals from Day 1 were still occurring. Day 3: I still felt bad. I started to get chills and my anxiety and have depression. Day 4: Same feelings as Day 3. Day 5: Same feelings but it got a bit better. As the days go by physically you feel better but mentally it will be a challenge. If you however use the washroom too often you need to stay extra hydrated. When I wake up my back pains aren't as bad. I get tired during the days but I really strongly recommend for you to get off them as soon as possible. I was told that percs have a small ingredient similar to heroin. Please try your best. It's been 10 days for me and I've gotten better. I know I won't really feel like myself until a month total or so. I still have anxiety and feel depressed when I am blessed. You guys are all blessed and there's a reason why you guys came across this article. To gain knowledge and get out of this dark hole! PLEASE KEEP YOURSELF OCCUPIED, BUSY, AND STAY POSITIVE.
TerryJune 18, 2018
I have Complex Regional Pain Syndrome as a result of damaged nerves from multiple gunshot wounds from an AK-47 while in Iraq in 2005. I have been on pain medication since the date of injury. Five days ago my step-daughter died from an unintentional overdose. That scared me so I stopped taking my pain medication. I had been taking 7.5 mg 1-2 times per day. I had absolutely no side effects when I stopped taking the medication. However, the pain in my leg got so bad today that I had to take a pill. I don’t take pain medication close to bedtime because I want to wake up. I never have been addicted to anything. I don’t smoke and don’t drink. Is my fear of the medication justified? Why am I not addicted? From what I hear it seems everyone who takes pain medication for more than a few days gets addicted.

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