Hydrocodone is a prescription painkiller that is used to treat moderate to severe pain. It can be helpful when used as intended for a short period of time, but users frequently become addicted. In many cases, hydrocodone causes feelings of euphoria, especially if a large dose of the drug is taken, which can lead some people to abuse the drug to achieve these effects. Not only is hydrocodone psychologically addictive, it can also cause the user to develop a physical dependency on the drug, meaning that painful withdrawal symptoms can arise when he stops using the drug. While these symptoms are not usually fatal, they can be dangerous and uncomfortable.
How Do Users Become Physically Dependent on Hydrocodone?
Physical dependency often happens when a person uses hydrocodone more frequently, in greater doses or for a longer duration than prescribed. Hydrocodone works by altering the chemical functioning of the brain. The body then adjusts the levels of chemicals it produces to incorporate the presence of the drug. When the user stops taking the drug, the body is left with deficiencies in some chemicals and surpluses of others. It is this process that can cause withdrawal symptoms to arise when the drug use is stopped.
Symptoms of Hydrocodone Withdrawal
During detox, a hydrocodone user can experience a variety of withdrawal symptoms. The length and severity of these symptoms are often dependent on the length and severity of the addiction itself. These withdrawal symptoms can include the following:
- Severe headaches
- Tiredness
- Increased heartbeat
- Irritability
- Restless leg syndrome
- Depression
- Dilated pupils
- Excessive yawning
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
- Goosebumps
- Fever and chills
While hydrocodone withdrawal is not often fatal, there is no way to predict exactly how a user’s body will react to a sudden cessation of the drug use. It is not a process you should attempt on your own since it can have the potential to be dangerous, especially if any other physical or mental issues are involved. It can be beneficial for users to seek professional help before attempting to stop using hydrocodone. Doctors and addiction treatment professionals can help you determine the best method of detox for your individual addiction, making it as safe and comfortable as possible so that you can move successfully into recovery.
Is Detox a Cure for Hydrocodone Addiction?
While a professional medical detox is important, it is only one part of a comprehensive treatment program. Addiction is rarely just a physical problem, but is often perpetuated by underlying root issues or mental health problems. Detox should be followed by an intensive, multi-faceted plan of rehab treatment that addresses all aspects of the addiction in order for you to achieve lasting recovery.
Do You Need Hydrocodone Withdrawal Help?
If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to hydrocodone, please call our toll-free helpline now. Our counselors are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions about hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms and get you the help you need. Please call now.
