Hydrocodone Abuse
Treatment for Hydrocodone Abuse
If you're suffering from a hydrocodone abuse problem, there are treatment programs that can help you NOW. Your addiction is taking over your life, perhaps hurting the people closest to you as well as yourself. You can feel its power over you, and you know it's time to break this bond, but you don't know how. We are here to help you - call 954-271-5047, and get help now! All calls are confidential.
What is Hydrocodone?
Hydrocodone is a prescription drug widely used for pain relief. It is the main ingredient in Vicodin, Lortab and over 200 other pharmaceuticals. Unfortunately it is also the most widely abused opiate in the country. One reason why is because unlike most other opiate based drugs, hydrocodone does not require a visit to the doctor to obtain a written prescription. Hydrocodone prescriptions can be phoned in to pharmacies, leading to fraudulent prescriptions.
How Hydrocodone Abuse Begins
Hydrocodone abuse begins when a person starts to use the drug in a manner in which it was not prescribed (such as taking more than the prescription instructs).
The person then develops tolerance to the drug, which means that it takes a higher dose of hydrocodone to achieve the same effect. The effects of hydrocodone abuse include:
- Feelings of euphoria
- Getting “high”
- Relaxation and relief from anxiety
- Decreased mental & physical performance
- Bursts of energy or sometimes lethargy
- Itching and rashes
- Constipation
- Vomiting & nausea
- Difficulty urinating
- Slowed or irregular breathing
When Abuse Turns to Addiction
Usually an abuser can control their usage and stop. When they cannot, it means that they have become addicted, that is, both physically and mentally dependent on the drug. At this point, the person will need more and more hydrocodone and do almost anything to obtain it. Without the drug, the person will experience withdrawal symptoms including:
- Nausea
- Hot and cold flashes
- Insomnia
- Fevers
- Depression
- Anxiety
The most dangerous effect of hydrocodone abuse is overdose which can lead to respiratory depression, seizures, coma, cardiac arrest and death.
Treatment for Hydrocodone Abuse
If you or someone you love is abusing hydrocodone it is vital to seek professional treatment. Those who try to withdraw without medical supervision are at great risk for health complications and the relapse rate is high.
The best, safest treatment for hydrocodone abuse begins with detox followed by a comprehensive rehabilitation program in an inpatient treatment center. With the right support, including 24/7 medical supervision and a variety of therapies and holistic treatments, people can and do recover!
To learn more about hydrocodone abuse and addiction treatment options, call our toll-free, confidential 24-hour helpline at 954-271-5047. We'll give you a free assessment over the phone and help you take that all important first step towards recovery.
