Dealing with the Addiction Crisis in Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay – LIVING – One of the drugs impacting our community are percocets. This prescription drug is often sold on the streets as well. These $2 pills have a street price in Thunder Bay of about $10. They have a sale value of up to $50 in remote northern communities. They are highly addictive and are impacting our region.

What are they?

Percocets are a potent prescription painkiller containing oxycodone and acetaminophen, is often prescribed for moderate to severe pain. While effective for short-term pain management, long-term Percocet use can have devastating consequences for both physical and mental health.   

Street Names for Percocets

Here are some common street names for Percocet:

1. Percs: This is a shortened version of the brand name and is very common.
2. Roxicet/Roxi: This refers to Roxicet, another brand name for the same combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen.
3. Oxy: Short for oxycodone, the opioid component of Percocet.
4. Blues: Referring to the blue color of some Percocet pills.
5. Hillbilly Heroin: This reflects the drug’s highly addictive nature and its misuse in some communities.
6. OC: Abbreviation for oxycodone.
7. 512s: Refers to a specific dosage and type of Percocet pill.

Physical Effects:

• Organ Damage: Prolonged Percocet use can damage the liver and kidneys, potentially leading to organ failure.   
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Chronic constipation, nausea, and vomiting are common side effects, which can lead to malnutrition and other health problems.   
• Respiratory Depression: Percocet slows down breathing, and in high doses or when combined with other substances, it can cause respiratory arrest and death.   
• Hormonal Imbalances: Long-term use can disrupt hormone production, leading to decreased libido, menstrual irregularities, and infertility.   
• Increased Risk of Overdose: Tolerance to Percocet develops over time, leading users to take higher doses to achieve the same effect, increasing the risk of accidental overdose.   

Mental Health Effects:

• Addiction: Percocet is highly addictive, and long-term use can lead to dependence and addiction.   
• Mood Disorders: Prolonged use can worsen existing mood disorders like depression and anxiety, and even trigger new ones.   
• Cognitive Impairment: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and impaired decision-making are common cognitive effects.  
• Personality Changes: Irritability, aggression, and social withdrawal can occur, straining relationships and leading to isolation.   
• Increased Risk of Suicide: Individuals struggling with Percocet addiction are at a significantly higher risk of suicide.   

Withdrawal Symptoms:

Discontinuing Percocet after long-term use can lead to a range of withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Intense cravings
• Muscle aches and spasms
• Insomnia
• Runny nose and watery eyes  
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea  
• Restlessness or anxiety  
• Agitation and irritability
• Chills or sweating
• High blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and heart palpitations

Seeking Help:

If you or someone you know is struggling with long-term Percocet use, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Addiction is a treatable disease, and recovery is possible. There are various resources available, including:

• Detoxification programs: Medically supervised detox can help manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety during the initial stages of recovery.  
• Inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation: These programs provide therapy, counseling, and support to address the underlying causes of addiction and develop coping mechanisms.
• Support groups: Connecting with others in recovery can provide valuable support and encouragement.

It’s important to remember that addiction is not a moral failing, but a chronic disease that requires professional treatment.

With the right support and resources, individuals can overcome Percocet addiction and reclaim their lives.

The City of Thunder Bay should set a goal of becoming the addiction treatment capital of Canada. Moving past the stigma of the addiction and moving to solving the problem will help familes, individuals, and reduce trauma and crime in our city.