Hydrocodone Addiction: Understanding the Side Effects

What Are the Side Effects of a Hydrocodone Addiction?

Hydrocodone, a frequently prescribed opioid pain medication, has unfortunately emerged as a significant contributor to the addiction crisis we are currently facing. Hydrocodone addiction, known as an opioid use disorder (OUD), can be highly destructive, impacting not only individuals struggling with active addiction but also those close to them who may feel worried or neglected.

While many recognize that overusing any medication is dangerous, they don’t always realize the grave consequences an addiction to Hydrocodone may carry, especially since it’s a prescription many receive from their medical doctor.

These concerns leave many taking the drug or misusing it to question: what are the side effects of a hydrocodone addiction?

An addiction to Hydrocodone has significant side effects, which can be physical, psychological, and emotional. These side effects can be severe, long-lasting, and even fatal. Fortunately, taking measures such as detoxing, seeking treatment at a rehabilitation facility, and adopting a sober lifestyle can be lifesaving but often requires professional support.

This blog by GateHouse Treatment will explore the side effects of hydrocodone addiction and why it is crucial to seek professional support before it’s too late. Ultimately, knowledge is power in the fight against addiction.

What Is Hydrocodone?

According to the National Library of Medicine, Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid analgesic some take to manage severe pain. It’s often combined with acetaminophen or ibuprofen to enhance its pain-relieving effects.

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration explains that the medicine Hydrocodone functions by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking pain signals. For many, it also produces pleasurable sensations that can be addictive. While effective when used as prescribed, its euphoric effects do cause high potential for abuse and addiction.

Hydrocodone is commonly known by its street names, including “Vicodin,” “Norco,” and “Lortab.”

This drug is a controlled substance, meaning the government closely monitors it due to its potential for abuse. In recent years, Hydrocodone has become one of the most abused prescription drugs in America.

How Does Hydrocodone Addiction Develop?

Hydrocodone addiction often starts with no intention to abuse it. Many begin with a legitimate prescription for pain management. However, due to its addictive properties, some begin to crave the drug’s pleasurable effects and seek to experience it more frequently.

Over time, individuals may start taking higher doses of Hydrocodone or consume the medicine more than prescribed, leading to the development of physical dependence and addiction.

Some people may eventually turn to Hydrocodone to self-medicate or cope with core mental health issues, increasing the risk of addiction.

Those who abuse Hydrocodone describe sensations of:

Elation
Relaxation
Pain relief
Sedation

However, these effects are short-lived and quickly lead to tolerance and dependence, requiring higher doses to achieve the same results.

Understanding the Side Effects of Hydrocodone Addiction

1. Changes in Brain Structure and Function

One of the most significant long-term effects of hydrocodone addiction is its impact on the brain. Chronic use of Hydrocodone can lead to changes in brain structure and function, causing cognitive impairment, memory loss, and difficulty with decision-making.

Studies have shown that these physical changes can last even after an individual stops using Hydrocodone, making recovery a challenging process. These struggles further highlight the importance of seeking professional help for addiction to Hydrocodone as soon as possible.

2. Social Isolation and Relationship Struggles

Active addiction may lead some to isolate socially and prioritize drug use over their relationships with others. This isolation can strain personal relationships and cause conflicts with loved ones, leading to a breakdown in communication and trust.

Additionally, the behavior changes some in active addiction display may also cause them to engage in risky behaviors, further damaging their relationships.

3. Financial Strain

The cost of maintaining a hydrocodone addiction can quickly add up, especially for those who turn to illegal means to acquire the substance. Over time, drug use and the behaviors that surround it can lead to financial strain on both the person in active addiction and their loved ones.

Furthermore, hydrocodone addiction may also impact an individual’s ability to work or maintain employment due to impairment or withdrawal symptoms.

4. Increased Risk of Overdose and Death

Hydrocodone is a powerful opioid that can lead to overdose. Overdoses on Hydrocodone most commonly occur when individuals take it in combination with other substances, including alcohol or benzodiazepines. Chronic use also puts individuals at an increased risk of respiratory depression, which can be deathly.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported over 63,00 overdose deaths involving opioids in the United States in 2016. This alarming statistic highlights the deadly consequences of hydrocodone misuse.

5. Physical Side Effects

Addiction to Hydrocodone can cause a host of physical side effects. These can include symptoms like drowsiness, constipation, and nausea, in addition to changes in the brain. However, long-term use can also lead to other severe complications such as liver damage, increased risk of heart attack or stroke, and decreased immune function.

These physical side effects impact an individual’s overall health and their ability to engage in daily activities.

6. Behavioral Side Effects

Hydrocodone addiction can also cause behavioral changes such as aggression, irritability, and mood swings in some. These effects can strain relationships with loved ones and make it difficult to engage in social activities or spend time together in addition to other issues.

7. Mental Health Consequences

One of the lesser-known consequences of long-term hydrocodone addiction is its significant impact on mental health. Opioids, such as Hydrocodone, can lead to mood disorders like depression and anxiety. These mental health challenges can be ongoing even after overcoming addiction and may require aftercare.

Individuals struggling with hydrocodone addiction are also at higher risk of developing co-occurring mental health conditions, which can complicate treatment and recovery.

These factors and more make it essential to address all the aspects of addiction and potential side effects of substance use to achieve lasting recovery.

Recognizing the Signs of Hydrocodone Addiction

Recognizing the signs of hydrocodone addiction is the first step toward recovery. Common symptoms of hydrocodone addiction include:

Increased drug tolerance
Withdrawal symptoms
Loss of control
Neglecting responsibilities and relationships
Engaging in risky behaviors to access the drug

Seeking Help for Hydrocodone Addiction

There is no denying the devastating toll that hydrocodone addiction can take on an individual’s life. However, it’s essential to remember that addiction recovery is possible with professional help.

Rehabilitation programs such as those offered by GateHouse Treatment provide comprehensive support for individuals struggling with opioid addiction that includes round-the-clock care away from the variables that may contribute to addiction.

Many also recover from opioid use disorder through outpatient services, therapy, and other ongoing support groups that help them overcome their circumstances through connection to rebuild their lives.

Hydrocodone Addiction Is a Complex and Challenging Issue with Far-Reaching Effects on Individuals, Families, and Communities

Ultimately, awareness, education, early intervention, and support are vital in addressing hydrocodone addiction for many. By understanding the side effects of this dependency and recognizing the signs early, we can help those affected by this challenging experience find the path to recovery before it’s too late.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance misuse or addiction, professional help is available and worth seeking. GateHouse Treatment offers comprehensive and compassionate care to guide you through addiction recovery for long-term results.

More About Overcoming Hydrocodone Addiction with GateHouse Treatment

GateHouse Treatment offers personalized addiction treatment programs for individuals struggling with hydrocodone dependency and more. Our evidence-based approach provides addiction treatment services at different levels to support those managing various, sometimes co-occurring, substance use disorders.

Our team of experienced addiction professionals at GateHouse Treatment provides empathetic care to those who need it, helping them uncover who they can be without the pain and chaos of addiction.

So, seek the help you deserve now. Contact GateHouse Treatment, located in Nashua, NH, today via our online link or by calling (855) 448-3588.

Your journey toward a healthier future begins with Gatehouse Treatment.

Author
Recent Posts

Brittany Marie

Editorial Staff at GateHouse Treatment

Brittany Marie Flynn is a published blogger and former Registered Behavior Technician. Her content primarily focuses on Psychology-related topics like Addiction, Human Behavior, and Autism. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and has done graduate-level work in Behavioral Science and Psychology. She currently writes content for GateHouse that helps vulnerable populations acquire the profound resources they need for support and lasting recovery.

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