Did you know that hydrocodone is the most frequently prescribed opioid in the United States? Ironically, it’s also one of the most widely misused medications on the market.
In Arizona, over 350,000 opioid prescriptions have been written so far in 2024. While hydrocodone can be used safely to treat short-term pain, it can induce euphoria, increasing the risk of misuse in some individuals. Using hydrocodone outside of its intended use can lead to physical and/or psychological dependence. When this happens, it becomes difficult to quit because the body believes it needs hydrocodone to function.
Wolf Creek Recovery treats opioid use disorders (OUDs) of all severities. We know that with the right support, which typically includes a combination of medication, behavioral therapies, peer support, and lifestyle modifications, individuals with hydrocodone dependence can recover and lead a healthy, productive life. Let’s learn more about the side effects of hydrocodone addiction, the dangers that can occur, and the options for treatment.
What Is Hydrocodone?
Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid medication commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is often combined with other medications, such as acetaminophen, to enhance its pain-relieving effects. In some cases, prescription cough suppressants will contain hydrocodone to relieve coughing. However, hydrocodone is a controlled substance due to its high potential for misuse. Common brand names include Vicodin, Norco, and Lortab, and they are typically prescribed for short-term use.
How Hydrocodone Works
Hydrocodone is an opioid agonist, meaning it binds to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord known as mu-opioid receptors. These receptors are part of the body’s natural pain-relieving system. When activated, they reduce the transmission of pain signals from the body to the brain.
By acting on the brain’s pain centers, hydrocodone doesn’t remove the source of pain but rather changes the perception of it so that it feels less intense and more manageable. Additionally, hydrocodone slows down central nervous system activity, relieving the stress and anxiety associated with pain. However, the euphoria and relaxation that hydrocodone produces can make the medication appealing for use outside of treating pain.
Short-Term Side Effects of Hydrocodone
The short-term side effects of hydrocodone can vary depending on the dosage, individual response, and whether it’s combined with other substances. Keep in mind that hydrocodone acts directly on the central nervous system, which means it can cause side effects like sedation and slowed breathing. This is why it’s important to always take this medication exactly as prescribed.
Physical Side Effects
- Drowsiness and sedation
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Slowed breathing (respiratory depression)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Itching or flushing skin
- Dry mouth
- Muscle weakness or fatigue
- Slowed heart rate
Psychological Side Effects
- Intense pleasure and euphoria
- Confusion or trouble concentrating
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Cognitive impairment
- Drowsiness or lethargy
- Hallucinations or delusions
Long-Term Adverse Effects of Hydrocodone
Hydrocodone is intended to treat short-term or acute pain, such as pain after a surgical procedure or injury. It is not recommended for long term use, as hydrocodone can change the way the brain functions and have lasting effects on mood and thought patterns. Here are some of the most concerning effects that long-term hydrocodone use can cause:
- Physical dependence. Over time, the body becomes less responsive to hydrocodone, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. Physical dependence is when the body adapts to the presence of hydrocodone, leading to withdrawal symptoms if the medication is stopped.
- Opioid use disorder. Prolonged use of hydrocodone can result in OUD, characterized by cravings and the inability to stop using the substance despite negative consequences.
- Respiratory complications. Long-term hydrocodone use can lead to chronic respiratory depression, making breathing more difficult, especially during sleep.
- Liver damage. Hydrocodone is often combined with acetaminophen, which can cause severe liver damage or liver failure when taken in large amounts.
- Gastrointestinal problems. Like other opioids, hydrocodone can result in severe, ongoing constipation, which can lead to other digestive problems like bowel obstruction. Persistent nausea and vomiting can also occur.
- Mental health issues. Using hydrocodone for an extended time can trigger or worsen mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety. Cognitive decline is also possible, particularly in terms of memory and attention.
- Overdose. As tolerance builds, some people may take larger doses to enhance the effects, significantly increasing the risk of overdose. Hydrocodone overdose is a serious medical emergency that can result in coma or death.
Health Complications
Long-term use of hydrocodone takes an immense toll on the body. Over time, various health complications can turn up, with some being serious or even life-threatening. For instance, the chronic use of hydrocodone and acetaminophen can lead to liver failure and kidney failure. Hydrocodone also slows down the gastrointestinal system, potentially causing opioid-induced constipation that can lead to bowel obstructions, hemorrhoids, fissures, or fecal impaction. The immune system is also weakened with continued opioid use, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. Other long-term health complications include bone and muscle issues, hormonal imbalances, and chronic respiratory depression.
Dangers of Hydrocodone Addiction
“Hydrocodone addiction” (opioid use disorder) is dangerous due to its wide-ranging impact on physical, mental, and social well-being. Some of the main concerns include the risk of overdose, breathing issues, physical and psychological dependence, and mental health problems. The misuse of hydrocodone can also inflict damage by disrupting relationships with friends and family, harming performance at work or school, and causing serious legal consequences.
Another issue that can happen with hydrocodone misuse is opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH), which is a state of abnormal pain sensitivity. The mechanisms behind OIH are complex, and genetic and personal predisposition play a role, too. With this in mind, it’s important to know that taking hydrocodone long-term won’t offer additional pain relief; it can actually make pain worse.
Get Help for Hydrocodone Addiction in Prescott, AZ
If you or someone you know is experiencing hydrocodone dependence, it’s important to seek treatment for hydrocodone addiction as soon as possible. Hydrocodone dependence can lead to serious health risks, including overdose and death. Recovery is attainable with the right support.
Hydrocodone withdrawal does not have to be a grueling process. There are medications to reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shaking, insomnia, and muscle pain. Once the body is cleared of hydrocodone, people move on to an outpatient or residential program where they participate in therapy and counseling to work through the psychological aspects of opioid use disorder, such as trauma, low self-esteem, or underlying mental health problems.
To maintain recovery, individuals often participate in various support groups like Narcotics Anonymous, family therapy, aftercare programs, and holistic activities like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing. It’s also important to build a strong support system and avoid triggers, which are the people, places, and situations that trigger the urge to use hydrocodone.
Wolf Creek Recovery treats opioid use disorders using behavioral therapies, medication, and holistic practices. We strive to make people whole again so that they don’t have a need to return to substance use. Recreation therapy is especially valuable, as individuals in recovery learn how to build healthy habits and discover new, fun ways to spend their time. Build a life you love today. Contact Wolf Creek Recovery at 833-732-8202 to learn more about our programs.
FAQs
What are the physical side effects of hydrocodone use?
The physical side effects of hydrocodone misuse include sedation, drowsiness, slowed breathing, muscle weakness, constipation, and stomach issues like nausea and vomiting. Taking the medication as prescribed can relieve some of these symptoms.
What are the psychological side effects of hydrocodone misuse?
The psychological side effects of hydrocodone misuse include mood swings, cognitive impairment, anxiety and depression, confusion, and lethargy. Hydrocodone can also cause intense pleasure and euphoria, making it appealing to some individuals.
Can hydrocodone be used long-term?
Hydrocodone is not recommended for long-term use. Not only can it cause tolerance and dependence, but also it can lead to a wide range of complications such as breathing difficulties, mental health disorders, chronic constipation, liver and kidney damage, and opioid use disorder.
