As anyone who has paid attention to the news in recent years knows, America is in the midst of an opioid painkiller abuse epidemic. Hydrocodone is a powerful prescription drug that can be very dangerous to someone who becomes addicted. In this article, we will discuss how to recognize and treat an addiction to this painkiller. We will also cover the side effects of hydrocodone, as well as how to find opioid addiction treatment.
Whether you or a loved one suffers from a hydrocodone addiction, it is important to seek treatment immediately. This will help you recover from the physical and psychological effects of this addictive drug, as well as help you to regain control over your life. If you are unsure about how to get started, speak with your doctor who can refer you to an addiction specialist if necessary. In addition, you can use the SAMHSA program locator to find facilities that offer addiction treatment near you.
There are many symptoms of Hydrocodone Abuse that can be indicative of an addiction. Some of these include:
Tolerance – A chemical dependency on the drug that causes you to need higher and more frequent doses to achieve the same results. A bridge between abuse and dependence, it is a sign that you may be on the road to addiction.
Cravings – Often a strong desire for the drug or a craving that cannot be fulfilled without it. You will begin to spend more and more time seeking out the drug, using it, or recovering from its effects. Addiction is a mental health disorder that can affect many aspects of your life, including your relationships, work, and health.
Overdose – A dangerous situation that can result in death. Overdose can occur if you take too much of the medication or combine it with other substances such as alcohol. Some signs of overdose include constricted pupils, difficulty breathing, blue lips, drowsiness, and coma.
Addiction treatment for hydrocodone is similar to other types of drug rehab. The first step is detox, which is usually conducted in a residential facility. Inpatient facilities are the most intensive option, as they require you to stay at the facility for 30-90 days while you undergo treatment.
Some treatments may include cognitive behavioral therapy, which will help you identify and change patterns of behavior that contribute to your drug addiction. Psychosocial therapies such as contingency management and motivational enhancement are also commonly used in addiction treatment. These therapies encourage you to participate in your treatment and can give you positive reinforcement for making healthy choices.
There is a common stereotype that drug addicts are bad people, but this could not be further from the truth. Even if you are struggling with an addiction to a drug like hydrocodone, it is still possible to turn things around and live a happy, fulfilling life. By seeking help, you will be taking the most important step of your recovery journey.
