Hydrocodone Addiction

Hydrocodone Addiction Treatment

If you have a hydrocodone addiction there are hydrocodone withdrawal treatment centers ready to help you NOW. Hydrocodone addiction slowly destroys your body and mind over time. Most people need help with their addiction to hydrocodone, which can take over your life, hurt those closest to you and steal your dreams. You have tried to stop using hydrocodone, but can't. We know, we've been there and couldn't do it by ourselves either. Call Recovery Connection NOW for help. Call 1-800-99-DETOX. (1-800-993-3869)

Hydrocodone is an Opiate Available by Prescription Only

Hydrocodone is the active ingredient in prescription drugs such as Loritab, Lorcet, and Vicodin, which can be taken in a pill form or by liquid. It becomes both emotionally and physically addictive when taken beyond the recommended use by a physician.

Initially, hydrocodone acts as a "block" to pain receptors in the brain, producing a euphoric and enjoyable feeling. The initial feeling is very rarely recreated but the hydrocodone addict continues to try, and does so by increasing the amount of hydrocodone they use and the frequency with which they use it. The only thing they manage to create is a greater tolerance to the drug, which causes habitual use leading to a hydrocodone addiction.

A hydrocodone addiction begins innocently enough. The patient takes prescribed hydrocodone for pain, the pain is partially relieved and the user experiences a pleasurable feeling. In an attempt to completely relieve the pain or to recreate this emotional pleasure, the person increases their hydrocodone dosage. The results are usually the same. The pain is never completely eliminated and the initial pleasurable feeling is never fully recreated. This leaves the user with an increased tolerance for the drug and addiction occurs.

Effects of Hydrocodone Addiction

In most cases, hydrocodone addiction results from the medication being prescribed by a physician for legitimate pain. When the hydrocodone user experiences some pain relief and a euphoric feeling they start taking additional hydrocodone to reproduce these effects. The consequences of this behavior can lead to a mental obsession as well as cravings for more.

As hydrocodone use increases, so do the physical symptoms. These symptoms include, but are not limited to: sweats, constipation, dry mouth, nausea, loss of concentration, dizziness, and drowsiness.

The Emotional Connection

In many cases, narcotic and opiate use begins as a way of dealing with emotional problems. It is important to realize that the only thing narcotics, opiates or hydrocodone provide for emotional difficulties is the ability to hide the actual feeling. In no way do they allow the individual to actually deal with the issues and effectively resolve them.

Hydrocodone Withdrawal

Hydrocodone, like all opiates, is physically addictive. Abruptly discontinuing its use could cause convulsions or seizures. However, if hydrocodone withdrawal is done gradually under medical supervision the risk of having seizures or convulsions decreases. Hydrocodone withdrawal is best accomplished in residential addiction treatment programs to guard against any medical complications.

Hydrocodone withdrawal discomfort is contingent upon the amount of hydrocodone the addict consumes and the length of time they have been using it The ingestion of 20 to 30 pills daily is not unusual. Due to these high intakes, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, insomnia, and muscle and bone pain could occur during the process of withdrawal.

In addition to the physical addiction to hydrocodone, some social issues may surface. These include problems in personal relationships, employment difficulties, financial troubles and legal problems. In addition, psychological difficulties commonly occur.

Treatment of Hydrocodone Addiction

The first phase of addiction treatment is known as detox. Under medical supervision the symptoms associated with hydrocodone withdrawal can be managed during this time. Detox normally takes about seven days and is usually continued in residential treatment centers. It is important to recognize that hydrocodone addiction can cause a great deal of damage to both you and your most important relationships. It takes time to regain the trust of your loved ones and resolve the pain, depression, shame and low self esteem associated with addiction. Recovery in a supportive therapeutic environment usually takes around 20 days and may be followed by outpatient therapy.

You can also see additional information regarding Hydrocodone Abuse

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If you believe you or someone you know needs help with a hydrocodone addiction, or for immediate assistance finding drug rehab centers that specialize in hydrocodone use and hydrocodone addiction treatments, please call Recovery Connection now at 1-800-99-DETOX. (1-800-993-3869) Help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls are confidential. Don't wait - GET HELP NOW!