Woman experiencing signs of hydrocodone addiction

Have you ever been prescribed hydrocodone to treat pain following an injury or procedure? 

Prior to the opioid epidemic, prescription opioids like hydrocodone were routinely used to treat pain. They weren’t heavily regulated at the time, which meant people could obtain multiple prescriptions from their doctor. While prescription opioids are still used to treat pain, there are regulations that doctors and pharmacists must follow when prescribing these medications. 

Here in Yavapai County, over 150,000 opioids were prescribed in 2023. The Arizona Medical Association recommends that an initial opioid prescription be no more than five days, unless the patient underwent a surgical procedure. In this case, the patient can receive an initial supply of opioids for 14 days. Safely prescribing medications like hydrocodone ensures that patients stay safe and lower their risk of opioid use disorder. 

Here at Wolf Creek Recovery, we see firsthand how the opioid epidemic has affected individuals and families. Many of the people we work with had their lives changed following an injury or surgery, and now they are left to pick up the pieces. We are here to help these individuals find their way to healing using various treatments and therapies. Let’s learn more about the signs of hydrocodone addiction and the steps to take next. 

Understanding Hydrocodone Addiction

Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain. It’s often prescribed after surgeries, injuries, and in some cases, to manage chronic pain. While hydrocodone can be effective for pain relief, it carries significant risks, including dependency. Therefore, understanding hydrocodone misuse is essential for both individuals who may be prescribed this medication and for those supporting someone at risk. 

So why do some people misuse hydrocodone in the first place? Hydrocodone binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to reduce pain sensitivity, while also producing feelings of pleasure and euphoria. It’s often combined with other pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. While each person is different, it can take some individuals just a couple of weeks to become physically dependent on the substance. 

Signs and Symptoms of Hydrocodone Misuse 

Hydrocodone, like other opioids, can interfere with the brain’s reward system. This is more likely to happen when the medication is taken in higher doses or for longer periods than prescribed. Since hydrocodone triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, it creates a sense of euphoria. This pleasurable sensation reinforces the behavior of taking the medication again, causing some individuals to seek out hydrocodone even when they no longer need it. 

Over time, the body can develop a tolerance to the medication, meaning higher doses are required to achieve the same level of pain relief. With continued use, the body can become dependent, causing withdrawal symptoms to occur when attempting to stop or cut back. In addition to this, it’s possible to develop a psychological dependence that involves cravings and a perceived need for the substance to feel normal. As an opioid use disorder develops, a number of signs and symptoms can turn up. 

Young man leaning against wall rubbing his temples

Physical Signs of Hydrocodone Use

  • Increased tolerance. As the body becomes accustomed to the effects of hydrocodone, it requires higher doses to get the same effects. Needing to take more of the substance is a strong indicator of opioid use disorder. 
  • Withdrawal symptoms. When the effects of hydrocodone wear off, individuals with a physical dependency may experience withdrawal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, sweating and chills, muscle aches and cramps, restlessness, diarrhea, and insomnia. 
  • Drowsiness and fatigue. Hydrocodone can cause significant drowsiness and fatigue, even when taken as prescribed. Nodding off or difficulty waking up can indicate excessive use. 
  • Constricted pupils. One of the hallmark signs of opioid use is constricted pupils, as these medications stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. Small pupils on a regular basis can be an indicator of hydrocodone misuse. 
  • Gastrointestinal issues. Opioids like hydrocodone can cause constipation, which can be severe and chronic. Without intervention, chronic constipation can lead to other problems such as hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fecal impaction, and rectal prolapse. 
  • Respiratory depression. Hydrocodone slows down the respiratory system, leading to shallow or slowed breathing. This is a potentially serious and life-threatening side effect that can be made worse when combined with other depressants like alcohol. 

Psychological Signs of Hydrocodone Use

  • Intense cravings. An overwhelming longing to use hydrocodone is a sign of psychological dependence. Cravings drive compulsive behaviors, including seeking out hydrocodone even when it’s no longer needed for pain relief. 
  • Anxiety and irritability. Increased feelings of anxiety and irritability, especially when the substance is unavailable, can be a direct result of its effects on the brain’s chemistry. Feeling irritable can also cause rapid and unpredictable changes in mood. 
  • Depression. Hydrocodone use can cause persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in healthy activities. This happens due to hydrocodone’s impact on brain chemistry, particularly when using the substance to cope with emotional pain. 
  • Obsessive thoughts. Constantly thinking about using hydrocodone can also indicate a psychological dependence. The medication becomes a central focus in the person’s life, often at the expense of other responsibilities. 
  • Social withdrawal. People who misuse hydrocodone may isolate themselves from friends, family, and social activities. They do this to avoid questions about their hydrocodone use or to use the substance in private. 

Behavioral Signs of Hydrocodone Use

  • Compulsive behavior. Relentlessly pursuing hydrocodone, even when it’s not medically necessary, is considered compulsive behavior. The person may engage in “doctor shopping” to obtain more prescriptions or lie about their pain levels to get another prescription. 
  • Neglecting responsibilities. A decline in the ability to manage everyday responsibilities due to hydrocodone use shows that the substance is taking priority over important responsibilities. 
  • Risky behaviors. Engaging in dangerous activities while under the influence of hydrocodone or to obtain the medication is a concern. These behaviors indicate that the individual’s judgment is impaired.
  • Financial problems. Financial difficulties can arise from the cost of maintaining opioid use disorder. When the problem is severe enough, it can even come at the expense of rent, bills, and food.  
  • Secretive behavior. Hiding hydrocodone use from others, such as concealing use, lying about whereabouts, or using the substance in secret, is a common behavioral sign of opioid use disorder. Individuals do this to hide the extent of their problem. 

Short-Term Side Effects and Long-Term Adverse Effects of Hydrocodone

There are a number of short-term side effects that can occur with hydrocodone use depending on the dosage, the individual’s tolerance, and whether the medication is taken as prescribed or misused. The most common short-term adverse effects include drowsiness and sedation, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, constipation, headache, dry mouth, itching, and blurred vision. This is why it’s recommended not to drive or operate heavy machinery while taking the medication, especially when you don’t know how it affects you. 

When hydrocodone is used for an extended period of time, it can lead to a range of negative long-term effects. Tolerance, dependence, and opioid use disorder are potential complications of using hydrocodone. Respiratory depression is another concern, as hydrocodone slows breathing, sometimes to dangerous levels. Liver damage, gastrointestinal problems, immune system suppression, cognitive problems, and bone loss are other long-term effects that can occur. There is also the risk of overdose, especially when hydrocodone is combined with other substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines. 

Man sharing during group therapy session

Getting Help for Hydrocodone Addiction in Prescott, AZ

A “hydrocodone addiction” is a type of opioid use disorder that can negatively affect your physical and mental health, personal relationships, and daily functioning. Recognizing the need for hydrocodone rehab is the first step in the healing journey. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to understand the resources and treatment options available to make the journey more manageable. 

Common treatment options include medically supervised detoxification, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and behavioral therapy. Detox removes opioids from the body, while MAT uses various medications to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Behavioral therapies address the underlying psychological aspects of hydrocodone use, as well as teach coping strategies, change harmful behaviors, and offer support for cravings and triggers. You can receive therapy in a residential or outpatient setting depending on the level of care you need. It’s also important to create a supportive environment that involves positive activities, strong support systems, healthy routines, and relapse prevention strategies. 

Wolf Creek Recovery is the ideal location to start your recovery from hydrocodone use. We offer comprehensive treatment in a supportive setting with staff that is in recovery as well. Clients get to participate in a wide range of therapies, including outdoor therapy, where they get to enjoy pickleball, basketball, disc golf, hiking, and more. This is a great way to start implementing healthy hobbies into your daily routine. To start your recovery and build a life you love, contact Wolf Creek Recovery at 833-732-8202.