Young man looking strung out with hydrocodone side effects.Do you have reason to believe that your loved one is addicted to hydrocodone? Did the abuse begin after they were prescribed the opioid analgesic to help with relief of moderate to severe pain? If you’re uncertain whether or not your loved one has a problem, there are certain hydrocodone side effects that make it simple to identify addiction. Browse the article below for more helpful information on this topic.

Hydrocodone Abuse in the United States

Millions of Americans develop an addiction to the opioid painkiller hydrocodone each year. The narcotic medication is commonly prescribed by doctors as a form of short-term pain management. When taken exactly as prescribed and in low doses, hydrocodone provides safe and effective pain relief. But the drug has highly addictive properties. Long-term or excessive doses puts the user at extreme risk for the development of tolerance, dependency, and addiction. Just one single large dose is enough to “hook” some people, due to the pleasant feelings of euphoria that the drug often produces.

Immediate Hydrocodone Side Effects

Hydrocodone effects are very similar so those of heroin and morphine. All three of these substances interact with the same parts of the brain. They also activate the brain’s reward system, an action that works to reinforce hydrocodone abuse.

An individual who abuses hydrocodone may experience certain negative side effects immediately after using the medication. Depending on the frequency and size of the dose, the severity of these effects can vary from uncomfortable to fatal. Even individuals who take the prescribed dosage of hydrocodone may experience immediate side effects that are unpleasant.

Some of these immediate side effects are:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Labored breathing
  • Decreased heart rate
  • Confusion; mental cloudiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Becoming easily angered

The long-term hydrocodone side effects can be irreversible. Extended hydrocodone abuse can make it difficult for the user to enjoy healthy activities not involving drug use. Long-term use can also cause damage to the liver, increased risk of depression and anxiety, cause mood swings, jaundice, coma, hallucinations, and even death.

Identifying Signs of Hydrocodone Addiction

If you suspect a loved one of abusing hydrocodone, look for certain telltale signs of hydrocodone addiction.

Physical hydrocodone side effects can include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Constricted pupils
  • Rash
  • Breathing that is shallow or slowed

Some of the behavioral hydrocodone side effects include:

  • Spending large amounts of time searching for hydrocodone
  • Needing larger doses of the drug to achieve the desired effects once produced by smaller doses
  • Distancing one’s self from social activities or social gatherings

Some of these hydrocodone side effects can linger for weeks or months, even after the abuse has stopped. If your loved one demonstrates any of the above hydrocodone side effects, it may be time to seek professional help.

Drug Rehab for Hydrocodone Abuse

If someone you care about is struggling with opioid addiction, the most helpful thing you can do is to take a stand. If they are willing to accept help, there is quality treatment that can get them clean and prepared for a life of long-lasting sobriety.

Our center, Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida, offers exceptional addiction help in a safe, confidential, and supportive environment. Our guests have the opportunity to focus on their healing, away from the judgment and chaos of the real world.

Some of the treatment programs offered at our facility include:

  • Primary Care
  • Inpatient
  • IOP, PHP, and OP
  • Transitional and Sober Living
  • Family Residential

Our medical specialists are ready and eager to help your loved one take this important first step towards positive life change.

Contact Our Specialists Today

You don’t have to watch your loved one self-destruct any longer. Beaches Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida, can help them achieve successful and life-lasting recovery. Get in touch with us now. Start the rehabilitation process by calling 8666050532.