Hydrocodone is a commonly prescribed opioid medication used for pain relief. However, it can be addictive and needs to be used with caution. Understanding what hydrocortisone is, its side effects, how addictive it is, and how to know if you have developed an addiction to this potent opioid can alert you to the need for professional intervention.
If you or someone you care about needs hydrocodone addiction treatment, Promises Behavioral Health is here to meet all your recovery needs. To learn more about our range of treatment options, give us a call at 17135283709.
What Is Hydrocodone?
Hydrocodone is a strong opioid drug prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain that is not relieved by traditional over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers. While you might not be familiar with hydrocodone, you may recognize one of the brand names of the drug:
- Vicodin
- Lortab
- Lorcet
- Norco
- Xodol
Unlike the occasional headache or muscle soreness, OTC medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are not powerful enough to mitigate pain from surgeries, injuries, dental procedures, or chronic conditions like cancer on their own. However, some medications combine acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin with hydrocodone to enhance its pain-relieving effects.
Common Hydrocodone Side Effects
As with any medication, prescription, or OTC, you can experience undesirable side effects from hydrocodone. Some common hydrocodone side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
These side effects will vary from person to person, and you will be more likely to experience them if you misuse your medication. Misuse is defined as taking more than prescribed or using the medication more frequently than advised by your provider. Taking the drug when not experiencing pain is also a form of misuse.
Is Hydrocodone Addictive?
As per the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), hydrocodone is classified as a Schedule II drug. Substances in this category are considered to have a high potential for abuse and addiction, especially when misused or used for a long period.
However, prior to 2014, hydrocodone was classified as a Schedule III controlled substance considered to have a moderate to low potential for dependence. It has since been determined that the drug is more addictive than previously believed. To help make it clear how potent hydrocodone can be, consider these other examples of Schedule II substances: oxycodone, cocaine, methamphetamine, methadone, and fentanyl.
Signs of Hydrocodone Addiction
Since hydrocodone has such a high potential for addiction, it is essential to recognize the signs of addiction as early as possible. You might notice:
- Taking larger doses than prescribed
- Continuing to use hydrocodone after it is no longer needed for pain relief
- Doctor shopping to get multiple prescriptions for hydrocodone
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using hydrocodone
- Continuing to use hydrocodone despite negative consequences
If you or someone you know is showing any of the above signs, it is time to consider the possibility of hydrocodone addiction.
What to Do If You Notice Signs of Hydrocodone Addiction
Once the signs of addiction start to appear, it is best to seek help sooner rather than later. Here are some tips on what to do if you or a loved one is addicted to hydrocodone:
Seek Professional Help from an Addiction Treatment Center
Addiction treatment programs give you access to medical supervision, counseling, medications, and support throughout your recovery journey.
Join a Support Group
Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide encouragement and motivation as you work toward recovering from hydrocodone addiction.
Incorporate Healthy Practices into Your Life
As you withdraw from hydrocodone, you will need to find healthier ways to address emotional distress and physical discomfort. Relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises can soothe your mind, while hiking, walking, and other forms of physical activity can release tension from your body.
Contact Promises Behavioral Health to Overcome Hydrocodone Addiction
Hydrocodone can be integral to pain management for those dealing with moderate to severe pain, but its addictive potential can be detrimental to your health. If you suspect you have become dependent on your hydrocodone prescription, reach out to Promises at 17135283709 to discuss treatment options.
