Hydrocodone Side Effects, Uses, Addiction and More

What is Hydrocodone?

hydrocodone/acetaminophen, which combines hydrocodone and acetaminophen, is a medication utilizing a dual approach to alleviate pain.

The synergistic effects of both components contribute to effective pain management. use the drug cautiously under the guidance of a healthcare professional due to the possibility of side effects and the risk of dependence if misused.

Hydrocodone functions as an agonist, binding to specific mu-opioid receptors in the brain, thereby reducing pain sensation.

Meanwhile, acetaminophen serves as an analgesic by inhibiting the production of particular brain chemicals responsible for pain, thus aiding 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.

Hydrocodone Side Effects

Hydrocodone, like any medication, can cause side effects. Some of the common side effects of Hydrocodone include:

• Drowsiness and Dizziness: Hydrocodone can cause drowsiness and dizziness, impairing cognitive and motor functions. It’s essential to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking this medication.
• Constipation: Opioids like hydrocodone in Hydrocodone can slow down bowel movements, leading to constipation. Increasing fluid intake and dietary fiber may help alleviate this side effect.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea and vomiting due to Hydrocodone.
• Dry Mouth: Hydrocodone can cause a dry sensation in the mouth.
• Lightheadedness: Some people may feel lightheaded or faint while taking Hydrocodone.
• Itching: Itching or skin rashes may occur as a reaction to Hydrocodone.
• Difficulty Urinating: Hydrocodone can sometimes affect urinary function and make it difficult to pass urine.
• Mood Changes: Hydrocodone may cause mood changes, ranging from euphoria to feelings of anxiety or depression.
• Respiratory Depression: High doses or misuse of Hydrocodone can lead to slowed breathing, which can be life-threatening.
• Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, individuals may experience allergic reactions to Hydrocodone, characterized by rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Report any concerning side effects to a healthcare professional immediately. Also, long-term use of Hydrocodone may lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.

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

Side Effects of Hydrocodone 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.

Is Hydrocodone Addictive?

Hydrocodone is considered addictive. Hydrocodone contains hydrocodone, 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 euphoric effects of opioids, like hydrocodone, trigger the brain’s reward pathway, reinforcing the desire to continue using the drug. Over time, the brain can become reliant on the presence of opioids to maintain a sense of well-being, leading to physical dependence.

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.

Hydrocodone Drug Withdrawal Symptoms

Hydrocodone, an opioid, can be very effective at relieving pain, but it can also be addictive. If you stop taking Hydrocodone after taking it for a while, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms are caused by the body’s attempt to adjust to not having the drug anymore.

The most common Hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms include:

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

Withdrawal symptoms typically start within 6-12 hours of the last dose of Hydrocodone and peak within 72 hours. The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the individual. Most people will experience withdrawal symptoms for 5-7 days, but some people may experience symptoms for longer.

If you are experiencing Hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. Your doctor can help you manage your symptoms and prevent complications.

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