The Dangers of Hydrocodone Addiction, Symptoms & Treatment

What is Hydrocodone?

The medication hydrocodone/acetaminophen, which combines hydrocodone and acetaminophen, works in two ways to relieve pain.

Both components’ synergistic effects contribute to effective pain management. Because of the possibility of side effects and the risk of dependence if misused, use the drug with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

As an agonist, hydrocodone binds to specific mu-opioid receptors in the brain, reducing pain sensation.

Meanwhile, acetaminophen acts as an analgesic by inhibiting the production of specific brain chemicals that cause pain, thereby assisting in pain relief.

What is Hydrocodone Used For?

Its main uses include:

• Pain Relief: Hydrocodone is prescribed to alleviate moderate to moderately severe pain, such as pain resulting from injuries, surgeries, dental procedures, or chronic conditions.
• Acute Pain Management: It is often used when short-term pain relief is needed, such as after surgical procedures or trauma.
• Chronic Pain: In some cases, Hydrocodone may be prescribed for treating chronic pain conditions when other less potent pain medications are ineffective.

Is Hydrocodone Addictive?

According to the DEA, Hydrocodone is considered addictive. This is because Hydrocodone is an opioid that acts on specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord known as opioid receptors. When hydrocodone binds to these receptors, it reduces pain perception and produces euphoria and relaxation.

The addicting components of Hydrocodone lie in it being an opioid that triggers the brain’s reward pathway, reinforcing the desire to continue using the drug. In turn, the brain can become reliant on the presence of opioids to maintain a sense of well-being, leading to physical dependence.

The Effects of Hydrocodone Addiction On the Body

Hydrocodone, like other opioids, binds to brain receptors to alleviate pain and trigger pleasurable feelings. Over time, its repeated use may lead to dependency and impair decision-making abilities.

Initially prescribed for pain relief, some individuals misuse hydrocodone by taking more than directed or using it in unintended ways, like snorting or injecting.

Identifying addiction can be challenging as it often begins with a legitimate prescription. Indicators include taking more than prescribed and neglecting responsibilities. Gradually, higher doses might be needed to evade withdrawal symptoms.

The immediate impacts of misusing Hydrocodone include various effects such as:

• Blurry vision.
• Confusion.
• Constipation.
• Diarrhea.
• Dry mouth.
• Euphoria.
• Itchy skin.
• Lightheadedness.
• Nausea.
• Nodding in and out of consciousness.
• Pinpoint pupils.
• Reduced breathing rate.
• Seizures.
• Sleepiness.
• Slowed heartbeat.
• Slurred speech.
• Vomiting.
• Warm, flushed skin.

Long-term abuse of Hydrocodone not only alters brain function but also has enduring effects on mood and thought patterns. Individuals abusing Hydrocodone for an extended period might endure:

• Insomnia.
• Liver or kidney disease.
• Depression.
• Anxiety.

Excessive intake of Hydrocodone can lead to an overdose. Overdosing might cause a rapid decline in breathing and heart rates. In severe instances, an individual overdosing on Hydrocodone may stop breathing, causing oxygen deprivation to the brain (hypoxia) within minutes.

Learn More:

• What is Norco? Norco Drug For Severe Pain Information
• Is Oxycodone Addictive
• What Is Oxycodone?
• Oxycodone Side Effects
• Opiate Withdrawal
• Opioid Withdrawal Timeline
• Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
• Tramadol vs Oxycodone: Which is Better? Side Effect Comparison
• Oxycodone Dosage Guide, Precautions, and Max Dose
• Oxycodone Vs Oxycontin. Differences & Similarities, Abuse & Treatment Options

Additional Side Effects of Hydrocodone Addiction and Abuse

When Hydrocodone is Abused via Snorting

Abusing Hydrocodone by snorting it can exacerbate the risk of overdose due to its rapid absorption and intensified effects. Crushing and inhaling Hydrocodone pills can lead to nasal cavity damage and, in severe cases, loss of smell. This form of drug abuse often leads to frequent nosebleeds, congestion, and recurring sinus infections. Long-term snorting may result in hoarseness and, in severe scenarios, a deviated septum.

Complications of Injecting Hydrocodone

Crushing Hydrocodone pills, mixing them with liquid, and injecting the substance significantly increases the risk of overdose. Injecting the drug causes a quick and potent high as it promptly enters the bloodstream. This method of drug administration comes with various hazards.

Injection drug users may develop infections at the injection site or surrounding tissue, and the repeated use of needles can lead to collapsed veins. Moreover, sharing unsterile needles and equipment can increase the risk of contracting blood-borne illnesses like HIV or hepatitis.

Tolerance and Addiction Development with Hydrocodone

Progressive Hydrocodone use leads to tolerance, where higher doses are required to achieve previously felt effects. Tolerance is quickly followed by physical dependence, often culminating in addiction.

Upon discontinuing or reducing Hydrocodone use, withdrawal symptoms emerge. These symptoms mimic those of other opioids, including muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, anxiety, drug cravings, fatigue, excessive yawning, bone pain, dilated pupils, restlessness, agitation, loss of appetite, and depression.

Hydrocodone Pain Medication Overdose Symptoms

A Hydrocodone pain medication overdose can occur when someone takes more than the prescribed dose or when the drug is misused or abused. Since Hydrocodone contains both an opioid (hydrocodone) and acetaminophen, an overdose can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications.

If you suspect a Hydrocodone overdose or notice any signs of overdose in someone, seek immediate medical attention. Opioid overdoses are medical emergencies, and timely intervention can be life-saving. It’s essential to store Hydrocodone securely and use it only as a healthcare professional prescribes to prevent the risk of overdose.

When Is Hydrocodone Addiction Counseling Necessary?

Hydrocodone addiction counseling becomes necessary as drug usage intensifies or when an individual requires higher doses to achieve the same effects. There isn’t a fixed timeframe because each person’s experience with problematic usage varies.

Seeking counseling doesn’t mandate a person to be addicted. Initiating counseling sessions at the early signs of misuse could prevent more severe outcomes. These indicators might involve exceeding the prescribed hydrocodone duration or attempting to obtain additional prescriptions by changing doctors or pharmacies.

At times, individuals may be hesitant to acknowledge their problems. The CDC emphasizes the importance of a robust support network. Everyone has a role in aiding an individual’s recovery from hydrocodone addiction by encouraging them to seek counseling and offering support throughout the treatment process.

In summary, counseling is crucial as a preventive measure when hydrocodone misuse begins, reducing the likelihood of addiction. Moreover, it’s a pivotal aspect of the treatment process, aiding patients in enhancing mental health and addressing triggers that contribute to risky behaviors like substance abuse.

Hydrocodone Withdrawal Symptoms

People who have been taking hydrocodone for a while may go through withdrawal signs if they stop. As the body tries to get used to not having the drug anymore, withdrawal signs show up.

The most common Hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms include:

• Anxiety.
• Restlessness.
• Insomnia.
• Sweating.
• Chills.
• Muscle aches.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Cravings for Hydrocodone.

Tips for managing Hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms:

• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Exercise regularly.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve pain and fever.
• Talk to your doctor about other medications that may help to manage your symptoms.

1.6 Million

An estimated 1.6 million people in the US were reported to have opioid use disorder in 2019, indicating a diagnosed addiction to opioids.

Source: NCBI

18%

In 2019, only about 18% of people with opioid use disorder received specialty treatment for their addiction.

Source: NSDUH