Hydrocodone is an opioid medication used for pain management and in cough medicine. Like all opioid drugs, it can create euphoric sensations when taken. Also, like other opioids, hydrocodone abuse can lead to tolerance, addiction and even overdose.
Hydrocodone abuse comes with additional risks. In cough medicine, hydrocodone is often combined with paracetamol, ibuprofen, and aspirin. While all of them are safe, non-addictive medications when used normally, large amounts of these medicines can cause severe injury when abused over time.
There’s an additional danger: hydrocodone abuse can act as a gateway to more powerful opioids such as heroin. When their prescription runs out, a person addicted to hydrocodone may seek illicit opioids to relieve withdrawal symptoms.
Professional, medically monitored detox is a critical part of treating hydrocodone addiction. Hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms can be safely managed, giving the patient the best chance at a lasting recovery.
