Did you know that it’s possible to reverse a hydrocodone overdose in just minutes?
Naloxone is a medicine that rapidly reverses opioid overdoses when administered at the right time. If you suspect that someone has taken too much hydrocodone, you can give them naloxone and potentially reverse its life-threatening effects. Educating yourself on the signs and symptoms of a potential overdose can help you make informed decisions for yourself and others who are at risk.
In 2023, there were 1,928 confirmed opioid deaths in Arizona. While prescription opioids are still commonly prescribed to treat pain, they are heavily regulated due to their potential for misuse and dependency. Overdose can even happen in individuals who are using the substance legitimately, as they can accidentally take too much or combine it with another medication that amplifies its effects.
As a recovery center in sunny Prescott, AZ, Wolf Creek Recovery is familiar with the dangers of taking hydrocodone, even when it’s prescribed by a doctor to treat pain. While this medication can be used safely, it also carries many risks, including the potential for overdose. Let’s learn more about hydrocodone overdose, the signs and symptoms that a person has taken too much, and how to safely handle this situation.
What Is a Hydrocodone Overdose?
When a person takes more hydrocodone than their body can safely process, it’s considered a hydrocodone overdose. This medication is commonly prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain, but it can be dangerous if misused. Hydrocodone misuse involves taking more than the recommended dosage, using someone else’s prescription, or using the substance for purposes other than it’s intended for, such as to achieve a euphoric high. Combining hydrocodone with other substances, particularly other depressants like alcohol, can also lead to unpredictable side effects, including overdose. Recognizing the signs of hydrocodone overdose and how to respond effectively can change outcomes.
Early Warning Signs of a Potential Hydrocodone Overdose
Hydrocodone can quickly depress the central nervous system, leading to life-threatening complications if taken in excessive amounts. Fortunately, opioid overdoses can be reversed if treated quickly with the help of naloxone (Narcan). This is why being able to recognize the early warning signs of a potential hydrocodone overdose can change outcomes and save lives.
One of the earliest signs of a hydrocodone overdose is excessive drowsiness. The person may have trouble staying awake or seem to fall in and out of consciousness, a state referred to as “nodding off” or “nodding out.” However, because hydrocodone can cause drowsiness, even when used as prescribed, it may not be obvious that someone is experiencing an overdose. In some cases, the individual may just be very high.
If you are having a hard time telling the difference, it’s best to treat the situation as an overdose. Naloxone is a safe medication that won’t harm a person if they aren’t overdosing on opioids. The medication will simply be ineffective. That being said, people who are experiencing an overdose on hydrocodone will likely exhibit other signs and symptoms aside from being unusually drowsy.
Signs and Symptoms of Hydrocodone Overdose
- Respiratory depression. The most critical and life-threatening symptom is slow or irregular breathing, often described as “shallow” or labored. In severe cases, breathing can stop entirely.
- Pinpoint pupils. A hallmark sign of opioid overdose is small, constricted pupils.
- Blue lips and fingernails. Due to a lack of oxygen, the fingernails, lips, or skin may turn blue or purple.
- Cold, clammy skin. Skin can feel cold to the touch and appear pale or even slightly bluish. This happens because of decreased circulation in the body.
- Weak or slow pulse. The heart rate may slow down considerably, and it may be weak or difficult to detect. This can also lead to low blood pressure.
- Confusion or disorientation. The individual may appear confused or have difficulty thinking or speaking clearly.
- Muscle weakness. Overdose can cause profound weakness, making it difficult for the person to move or stand.
- Nausea and vomiting. When there are high levels of opioids in the body, it can cause vomiting and other gastrointestinal issues.
Dangers of a Hydrocodone Overdose
A hydrocodone overdose is a serious medical emergency that can have life-threatening consequences. Hydrocodone is a powerful opioid, and taking too much can suppress vital bodily functions. The main risk associated with a hydrocodone overdose is respiratory depression. Like other opioids, hydrocodone affects the central nervous system and can slow or stop breathing.
When breathing slows or stops, the body is deprived of oxygen. A lack of oxygen can cause permanent brain damage within minutes, leading to long-term cognitive impairment, coma, or death. Taking too much hydrocodone can also cause the heart to slow to dangerously low levels, leading to low blood pressure and possibly cardiac arrest. Once the heart stops pumping blood, death can occur within minutes.
Another potential danger of a hydrocodone overdose is aspiration or choking. Overdoses can cause nausea and vomiting. If the person is semi-conscious or unconscious, they can aspirate (inhale vomit into their lungs), leading to suffocation, lung infections, and death.
In the Event of an Overdose
Knowing what to do in the event of a hydrocodone overdose can mean the difference between life and death. If you suspect that someone overdosed on hydrocodone, call 911 immediately. Clearly explain the situation and your location, and stay on the line to follow any instructions from the dispatcher.
If you have naloxone on hand, you can administer it now. Intranasal naloxone is sprayed into the nostrils, while a naloxone injection is injected into the muscle or under the skin. Naloxone typically starts working in 2-3 minutes, helping the person regain consciousness and start breathing again. Additional doses of naloxone may be required.
You can also put the person in the recovery position to help prevent choking if they do vomit. To do this, turn the person on their side, place their bottom arm out, bend their top leg at the knee, and tilt their head back slightly to keep the airway open. Stay with the person until help arrives. Responding to an overdose quickly can prevent permanent, long-term problems from occurring.
Risk Factors For Hydrocodone Overdose
Several factors can increase the risk of a hydrocodone overdose:
- Taking higher doses than prescribed. Hydrocodone is a potent opioid, and exceeding the prescribed dose can overwhelm the body, leading to respiratory depression and overdose.
- Combining hydrocodone with other substances. Mixing hydrocodone with other depressants like alcohol can amplify the medication’s effects on the central nervous system, increasing the risk of respiratory depression.
- Using hydrocodone without a prescription. Using someone else’s prescription, or purchasing it illegally, is a form of misuse, often done for recreational or self-medication purposes.
- Previous history of substance use. Individuals with a history of substance use are more likely to misuse hydrocodone. Tolerance to opioids can also lead a person to take more to achieve the desired effects.
- Taking hydrocodone after a period of abstinence. If someone stopped using hydrocodone due to detox or treatment and then resumes the same dose they previously took, their body may not be able to tolerate it, leading to overdose.
- Co-occurring medical disorders. Medical conditions like liver or kidney disease can make it harder for the body to process or eliminate hydrocodone, increasing overdose risk.
- Mental health disorders. Individuals with mental health disorders like anxiety or depression can be more prone to misusing hydrocodone to self-medicate emotional pain.
Preventing Hydrocodone Overdose
Hydrocodone overdoses can be prevented by following prescription guidelines carefully. This includes not taking more than the recommended dose, sticking to the dosing schedule provided by your doctor, and not adjusting the dose without consulting your healthcare provider first. Even if you feel like the medication is not working as well as before, always consult with your doctor.
To reduce your risk of hydrocodone overdose, it’s important to avoid mixing hydrocodone with other substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, sedatives, or other opioids. Combining these medications can increase the risk of respiratory depression and overdose. Other ways to prevent overdose include storing and disposing of the medication properly, monitoring for tolerance and dependence, and educating yourself and your family. If you take hydrocodone to manage chronic pain, it’s also recommended to keep naloxone in the home.
Treatment Options for Hydrocodone Addiction in Prescott, AZ
The best way to address hydrocodone misuse is with a combination of behavioral therapies and medication. Medical detox is usually the first step and involves eliminating any remaining hydrocodone in your system. Most hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms are not life-threatening, though they can be uncomfortable. Seeking medical support can help manage these symptoms and prevent complications from occurring.
Entering hydrocodone rehab is often necessary to address the psychological aspects of hydrocodone use. Many people follow a “step down” approach, where they start with residential rehab and move down to lower levels of care such as partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient. During treatment, individuals receive support, structure, and access to a wide range of therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy, 12-step meetings, support groups, family therapy, relapse prevention, and holistic therapies like yoga and meditation.
Wolf Creek Recovery is committed to providing comprehensive care to individuals in recovery. Aside from individual, group, and family therapy, we also introduce our clients to a wide range of alternative therapies. In outdoor therapy, clients get to enjoy time outdoors, engaging in their favorite sports and activities. Our goal is to show individuals that recovery is a transformative process that can also be fun. To build a life you love, contact Wolf Creek Recovery at 833-732-8202.
FAQs About Hydrocodone Overdose
What are the main symptoms of a hydrocodone overdose?
The main indications that a person has overdosed on hydrocodone are slow or shallow breathing, extreme drowsiness, constricted pupils, blue lips or fingernails, cold, clammy skin, and confusion.
Is there any way to reverse a hydrocodone overdose?
Yes, a hydrocodone overdose can potentially be reversed with timely intervention using naloxone. Naloxone blocks the effects of opioids and reverses the life-threatening symptoms of an overdose, particularly respiratory depression.
Where can I get naloxone?
Naloxone is available from a number of sources, and often without a prescription. Here in Arizona, you can buy this medication from your local pharmacy or pick it up for free at various locations across the state. Many organizations and agencies can order the medication for free, or you can use your health insurance.
Are hydrocodone overdoses fatal?
Hydrocodone overdoses can be fatal if they are not given immediate intervention. Hydrocodone is a powerful opioid that can cause respiratory depression in large amounts. If breathing slows or stops, it can lead to brain damage, coma, or death. Timely intervention using naloxone can increase survival rates.
