Hydrocodone addiction is a common problem of today. This prescription opioid painkiller has similar effects as morphine and heroin. After
consuming this drug, users reach a euphoric state and get a relief from chronic pain. Even though this prescription drug has several benefits, the evidence of chronic addiction is the major drawback of Hydrocodone.
Schedule II Drug
Pure Hydrocodone belongs to the Schedule II drug category or the restricted category of the drugs. Only a few prescription drugs are made up of pure Hydrocodone. A number of analgesic drugs also have traces of Hydrocodone mixed with other non-narcotic ingredients. Prolonged use of such drug leads to Hydrocodone addiction. Common signs of Hydrocodone addiction include several physical signs. Some of the most common symptoms are constipation, anxiety, and difficulty in urination, mental clouding, dry throat, itching, restlessness, sluggishness, and change in behavior.
Changes in Mood and Behavior
A majority of the patients who take opiates often find frequent change in mood and behavior. Continued usage of such drug leads to chronic Hydrocodone addiction condition. Patients in such condition often become volatile and hostile. Most of them complain about hyper anxiety and agitation. Behavioral changes are also common. Sometimes, patients may show secretive or deceitful behavior. As patients become addicted, they tend to get multiple prescriptions from more than one doctor in order to buy such drug from the pharmacy stores.
Physical Dependence
Not all of them who take Hydrocodone will become addicted to the drug. However, patients may notice a physical dependence or tolerance after extended intake of such drug. This may in turn lead to a serious addiction. Once a person is addicted to the Hydrocodone drug, he or she will tend to continue using the drug even after the chronic pain has ceased. Some patients show physical withdrawal symptoms when they miss a dosage of Hydrocodone. Other commonly reported physical conditions include flu-like symptoms, joint aches, muscle problems, and insomnia, night sweats, and depression. Patients gradually develop a high tolerance condition. In such cases, they tend to take more number of pills to have the same desired effect.
Keep a Close Eye for a Developing Addiction
Families and close friends of the patients should keep a close eye on them in order to find out if they are falling into Hydrocodone addiction. Patients having chronic physical and mental conditions due to Hydrocodone abuse should seek for medical treatment immediately. Hydrocodone abuse treatment includes drug therapy, physical therapy, and counseling. Initially, patients may notice some withdrawal symptoms as soon as they discontinue this drug. However, after few days of treatment and detoxification, they will not experience any Hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms. There are also some residential drug rehabilitation programs exclusively to treat the Hydrocodone addiction symptoms.