Use of marijuana, commonly called weed, has rapidly grown over the past few years. Several states have either decriminalized weed or completely legalized the drug. Many people assume that weed is perfectly safe when used medically, maybe even safer than any other drug available. Some theorize that because marijuana is a plant that it’s healthy to consume. Many have incorporated its use into their lifestyles. There are, however, many risks that come with using weed, especially when it’s combined with prescription medications or illicit drugs. This includes mixing weed with Percocet, a medication used to treat the symptoms of acute pain. Because Percocet may cause serious side effects, combining it with weed can be dangerous.
How Weed Affects the Body
Weed contains many different chemicals that affect a user’s body and mind. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a psychoactive chemical in marijuana that impacts the brain. It gives your body a high by sending areas of the brain into hyperactive mode. The high from weed can bring about feelings of:
- Happiness
- Enhanced sensory perception
- Increased social ability
- Lightheadedness
- Relaxation
- Sedation
Unfortunately, weed has some serious drawbacks, too. THC interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain and can affect thinking, pleasure, memory, concentration, perception of time, sensory perception, and coordination. Some of the negative effects of weed include:
- Bloodshot eyes
- Excessive coughing
- Increased appetite
- Increased heart rate
- Low blood pressure
Is Weed Dangerous?
As with anything, there are risks associated with using weed. Smoking marijuana can trigger both short-term and long-term effects. Some of the negative long-term effects include:
- Developmental delays in children
- Diminished IQ
- Higher incidences of anxiety, depression, suicide, and psychotic issues
- Lowered athletic ability
- Premature birth or still birth
Weed Addiction
Like most drugs, weed can be addictive. SAMHSA reports that 1 in 10 people who use weed will become addicted to it. The THC in weed harnesses cannabinoid receptors to activate the brain’s reward system, causing your brain to release high levels of dopamine, This chemical is what leads to the high people get from using marijuana.
What is Percocet?
Percocet is a painkiller that’s classified as a narcotic. It is a combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen. You probably recognize the acetaminophen in Percocet, as this is an easily attainable mild pain reliever available over-the-counter almost anywhere. Oxycodone is a strong opioid painkiller medication.
How Percocet Affects the Body
Percocet can cause some unpleasant side effects like:
- Cold sweats
- Digestive issues
- Drowsiness
- Increased hunger
- Vision changes
Some of the more serious side effects brought on by use of Percocet can include:
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Headaches
- Jaundice
- Nausea
- Respiratory issues
Percocet Addiction
As mentioned, Percocet is classified as an opioid. This class of drugs has a high potential for misuse and abuse. Anyone taking opioids should exercise extreme caution. The United States is currently going through an opioid epidemic in which addiction to opioids like Percocet is claiming thousands of lives each year. According to CDC statistics, nearly 70% of all overdose deaths were the result of opioids in 2017. Percocet, like all other addictive substances can cause the brain to release large amounts of dopamine. This can lead the user to the desire to want to repeatedly use the drug in order to maintain the good feelings associated with it.
Oxycodone is the second-most commonly misused prescription drug in the US, with over 3 million people abusing it. People can easily become addicted to opioids like Percocet, and because of the way they work, it’s also easy to become physically dependent on these drugs. The dependence can lead to death. Indeed, 91 Americans die every day as a result of opioid overdose. If you are struggling with opioid addiction and need help, contact Landmark Recovery today at 888-448-0302 to learn how we can treat opioid use disorder specifically.
Dangers of Combining Percocet and Weed
While in some cases, combining weed and Percocet can be beneficial for patients, this must be carefully calibrated under the close supervision of a doctor or healthcare provider. However, since Percocet and weed are both depressants, there are many dangers associated with combining the two substances. Depressants affect the body’s central nervous system which can create many problems.
Some of the potential dangers expected when combining Percocet and weed are:
- Extreme confusion
- Extreme drop in blood pressure
- Light-headedness and dizziness
- Loss of memory
- Loss of motor control
- Slowed breathing
- Slurred speech
Long term use of weed mixed with Percocet can lead to seizures and even death. If you have questions about using both drugs talk to your doctor.
What to Do Next
There are dangers associated with both weed and Percocet but combining these two substances raises the stakes dramatically. If you or a loved one is dealing with addiction to these substances, we want to help you start down a new path. Here at Landmark Recovery, we have the skills, tools, and knowledge to help you break through your addictions and live a healthier life. Call the friendly admissions team today at 888-448-0302 to discuss your options for a brighter future.
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We're here 24/7 to help you get the care you need to live life on your terms, without drugs or alcohol. Talk to our recovery specialists today and learn about our integrated treatment programs.
