Hydrocodone Addiction: Signs, Effects, & Treatment
Because most people with a hydrocodone addiction begin by misusing a prescription given to them by their doctor, it can be difficult to see the signs of addiction. Although some people may experience depression or other uncomfortable effects, withdrawal symptoms are generally not life-threatening. 1 But it’s usually best to consult with a physician or seek help from a treatment center to make your journey to recovery easier, safer, and more successful. Some opioid use disorder experts now recommend that healthcare professionals interview family members as part of routine follow-up care for a person taking opioids.
Hydrocodone Addiction and Recovery Facts
Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid, typically prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. Unlike natural opiates morphine and codeine, hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid. Generally, doctors may decide to write a hydrocodone (brand name Vicodin®) prescription to treat short-term pain following dental surgery or for injury-related pain.
- These symptoms include itching, vomiting and swelling of the face, mouth and throat.
- For example, mixing hydrocodone and weed can lead to respiratory distress or coma, while mixing hydrocodone and Xanax can depress breathing and induce sleepiness.
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- Vicodin is currently labeled as a Schedule II controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Agency after being changed from Schedule III in October of 2014.
- However, as recently as 2018, there were still over 70 million hydrocodone-containing products prescribed in the U.S.1 Learn more about hydrocodone addiction and recovery facts.
- Then there’s this new pathway where a person may not be able to use their prefrontal cortex in a way that enables them to do normal risk taking analysis.
Adverse Effects & Health Risks of Hydrocodone Misuse
While it is effective when used properly, misusing Vicodin can be harmful. It can lead to physical problems such as stomach pain and mental health issues that can linger for years. If you are addicted to Vicodin or think you might be, seek professional treatment. This https://ecosoberhouse.com/ prescription painkiller is a combination of hydrocodone and the active ingredient in Tylenol. There is a high risk for addiction, but there are many treatment options. The dosage and strength prescribed by a doctor depend on the severity of the individual’s pain.
- Reserve concomitant prescribing for patients with inadequate alternative treatment options.
- Women also may be more likely than men to become dependent on prescription pain relievers.
- Since hydrocodone has been circulating for the past century, people have learned that mixing it with other drugs, such as acetaminophen, can increase its strength and effects.
Vicodin Addiction: Symptoms, Overdose, and Treatment
- Physicians may also provide methadone or buprenorphine during detox.
- Hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms occur when people quit using the opioid suddenly after prolonged use.
- Many people who run out of the money they need to purchase opiates will turn to criminal actions to get their drugs.
Women also may be more likely than men to become dependent on prescription pain relievers. In 2011, up to 131 million Americans were prescribed Vicodin, often in unnecessary strength and quantity. In 2014, lawmakers recognized the increasing danger of hydrocodone vicodin addiction combination products and changed them from Schedule III to Schedule II controlled substances. Previous formulations included 500 mg to 750 mg of acetaminophen per pill. Rehab treatment also uses behavioral treatments to help people overcome hydrocodone addiction.
But one thing that’s really wonderful about treatment, behaviorally approached and/or medically approached is that these can be reset and a person’s neural pathways can be restored. But they’ll always have that possibility of returning to use again if they reintroduce that drug. Dr. Alta DeRoo’s record of accomplishment includes a 24-year career in the U.S.
