A Closer Look At Hydrocodone’s Addictive Effects

“Hydrocodone is one of the most common pain medications prescribed by clinicians and one of the most abused by patients. It is a relatively potent drug for moderate-to-severe pain control in postoperative patients, patients with trauma, or patients with cancer,” according to an article from the National Library of Medicine.

Classified as a schedule II drug by the DEA, hydrocodone has a high potential for abuse even though there are accepted medical uses. What this means is those prescribed hydrocodone need to be aware of the risks and ensure they are adhering to the instructions of the prescription to decrease any possibility of addiction.

What is hydrocodone?

“Hydrocodone…is a semi-synthetic opioid most closely related to codeine in structure and morphine in producing opiate-like effects.” It belongs to a category of drugs known as narcotic analgesics, that is, pain medications, and helps decrease pain by acting on the central nervous system (CNS). 

The effects of hydrocodone include: 

• Euphoria
• Sedation 
• Decreased effects of potentially painful stimuli
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• GI upset, including nausea, vomiting and constipation or diarrhea 
• Urinary retention
• Slower respiratory rate
• Physical dependence/addiction

Individuals who develop a dependence to hydrocodone do so because they find the immediate, sedative effects of the drug pleasurable; but, as their body adapts to the chemicals in its system, it loses the ability to tolerate pain on its own and requires more and more of the drug to achieve the same sedative effects. 

This tolerance is a slippery slope to potential addiction. 

Is hydrocodone an upper or a downer?

Illicit drugs are often referred to as uppers or downers based on the effects they produce. For example, an upper would be any substance that increases focus and alertness, including Adderall, cocaine, methamphetamine and ecstasy. Also known as stimulants, uppers stimulate the mind and body to a heightened level of sensation and emotion. 

On the other hand, downers work on the central nervous system (CNS) to depress heightened emotions and instead promote a sense of relaxation. They work to reduce pain, but also slow down the messages between the CNS and brain, increasing sedation. 

Opioids, including hydrocodone, are known as downers due to these sedative effects. 

What are symptoms of hydrocodone abuse?

Because of its addictive nature, those who are prescribed hydrocodone need to be aware of the risks of the prescription for the sake of their own health and wellbeing. One may begin showing signs of dependence without even fully realizing their body has begun adapting to the chemical.

Symptoms of hydrocodone dependence and abuse include: 

• Needing to take more of the drug in order to feel the same effects
• Using someone else’s prescription
• Increasing the dose or frequency of consumption without consulting a doctor
• Seeking out multiple physicians in order to have multiple prescriptions filled unnecessarily 
• Trying to stop taking the drug on your own, but being unsuccessful
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you miss a dose or attempt to stop use 
• Combining hydrocodone with other substances, such as alcohol, for increased sedation

It is important to remember that just because you have been prescribed hydrocodone does not mean you are guaranteed to develop a dependence and/or addiction to the substance. What it does mean is that, in order to avoid addiction, you need to work closely with your doctor to monitor any symptoms and adhere to the instructions of the medication. 

What do I do if I am struggling with hydrocodone abuse?

Addiction can make you feel out of control – it is a scary emotion that can cause you to take drastic, potentially negative actions if the right coping mechanisms are not in place. In order to prevent this from occurring, and to address concerns for hydrocodone abuse, there are numerous practices you can put into place to help you rebalance your life. 

1. Don’t be afraid to seek additional help – Addiction and substance dependence are challenging to overcome on your own; addiction treatment programs and counseling therapies are designed to help you overcome addiction and prevent relapse from occurring. 
2. Consider detox – While it is not recommended to detox alone in your home (some withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening), medically assisted detox programs in hospitals and treatment facilities allow you to detox and start your recovery journey with a fresh slate. 
3. Reach out to friends/family – Community is a crucial aspect in recovery and letting your close friends and family know you’re struggling – allowing them help you – has the potential to motivate you through recovery; 
4. Balance out other aspects of your life – While pursuing recovery, seek to build a healthy routine of sleep, exercise and three healthy meals a day to promote both physical and mental wellbeing;
5. Seek community through group therapy – 12-step groups and other group counseling opportunities allow you the chance to learn from the experience of others, and feel supported during a vulnerable time in your life. 

While admitting addiction is hard, the freedom you experience in recovery is real. 

Ready for recovery?

If you are looking to begin your journey to freedom from addiction, High Focus Centers is here to help. Reach out to our treatment teams anytime by contacting us at 800-877-3628 or by contacting us onine to get in touch.