One of the more common drugs prescribed for pain is Percocet. It is a prescription drug; however, it is also one of the most common 
drugs sold illegally on the street. Whether this drug is prescribed or illegally obtained, Percocet addiction happens easily and frequently. Percocet contains a combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone. Oxycodone is a highly addictive narcotic and acetaminophen is an over-the-counter drug, commonly sold as Tylenol.
Much Like Heroin
Much like heroin or morphine, Percocet is a narcotic that is also sold without acetaminophen as Oxycontin. Percocet addiction develops because of the psychological and physical effects of the drug, often leaving a user feeling great and pain free. Because it is a narcotic, normal doses tend to soothe the senses and can leave a user feeling tired. When taken in larger quantities, the drug can induce a coma or death. Often times a person in great pain may over use the drug because it does eliminate pain by blocking pain receptors. Younger individuals, who illegally obtain the drug, simply like the way it makes them feel; hence, they take it unprescribed and in greater doses.
Percocet Addiction
Percocet addiction takes place once the body has adapted to the oxycodone and more is needed to bring on the wanted and expected effects. If a person tries to go without the drug, he or she may experience diarrhea and/or constipation and irritability. Most symptoms of addiction will occur within two to four hours after not taking the narcotic. Because the symptoms are so unpleasant and painful, many individuals will immediately begin taking the drug once again for relief. If a prescription has run out, many will try to purchase the drug by any means in order to alleviate the side effects.