Hydrocodone Side Effects

Hydrocodone is a narcotic. Brand-name versions include Lortab and Opioid Pain Medication. These drugs are opioid pain medications, and if abused, can have serious effects on health, finances, relationships and mental health. Understanding the extent of hydrocodone side effects can encourage you or a loved one to seek help.

The Immediate Effects of Hydrocodone Consumption

Hydrocodone is prescribed to reduce pain. It works by changing the brain’s perception of discomfort. For people enduring physical trauma or recovering from an accident, the immediate relief is beneficial.
When taking hydrocodone initially, users may experience a slight decrease in pain and tension. Numbness and lethargy are common side effects as well.

Mild Hydrocodone Side Effects

Hydrocodone causes a variety of side effects. Initially, these are typically mild. However, they can be unpleasant and may worsen over time.

Although lethargy is sometimes welcomed when experiencing pain, taking hydrocodone long-term can drastically lower your energy levels. You may have difficulty waking up, and the drug can even decrease muscle strength. With continual use, it will become challenging to handle ordinary, everyday tasks.

Another common hydrocodone side effect is nausea. Many users report feeling sick to their stomach while using the drug. The drug causes constipation as well. These are both likely to cause cramping and abdominal discomfort.

Taking hydrocodone can also worsen mental health conditions. Long-term use of the drug may lead to increased feelings of depression or anxiety. Many hydrocodone users feel generally unhappy and uncomfortable while taking the drug. Itching, headaches, muscle pain, and dizziness are also common side effects.

Severe Side Effects of Hydrocodone

Hydrocodone’s severe side effects are less common. They can, however, be devastating. Like many prescription opioid drugs, hydrocodone causes severe constipation. After weeks or months, this can lead to bowel obstruction. Some individuals also struggle with urine retention which may lead to the inability to urinate.

Hydrocodone also causes breathing problems. The drug depresses the respiratory system, making breathing difficult. Similarly, it can slow down heart rate to dangerously low levels.

There is also always the risk of hydrocodone overdose. Taking too much of the drug, or taking two doses consecutively, may lead to this. Overdose shuts down bodily functions and even causes death.

Impact of Hydrocodone on Quality of Life

Clearly, using hydrocodone has a severe impact on physical health. Hydrocodone side effects may impact many other areas of your life as well. Once a person becomes addicted to hydrocodone, life can turn around quickly.

An addiction to hydrocodone quickly becomes the most important aspect of your life. Soon, all financial decisions may be related to drug consumption. It is easy to drain savings, lose a career, or become bankrupt.

Hydrocodone dependence can ruin relationships. It may be difficult to remain close with loved ones when drug use is your priority.

Recovering From a Hydrocodone Addiction

To bring an end to Hydrocodone addiction, individuals can rely on professional substance abuse treatments. Addiction recovery at Crestview starts with detox and includes a range of beneficial treatment methods such as:

• Trauma therapy
• Group therapy
• Life skills training
• Holistic therapy
• Behavioral therapy
• Family therapy

If you or a loved one struggles with Hydrocodone abuse, get help today. At The Hills Treatment Center, you can break free from your addiction. Call 844-915-0287 to begin your personal journey to recovery.