Millions of people take prescription drugs to manage pain. Many prescription painkillers contain addictive opioids, and many people develop addiction or physical dependence while using them.

Hydrocodone is an opioid found in several prescription pain relievers. Like other opioids, it has a high risk for abuse and addiction.

People may misuse opioids like hydrocodone in many ways. Some people snort it, which can lead to severe short and long-term complications, including overdose.

This article will explore the risks of snorting hydrocodone. You will learn:

• The effects and risks of hydrocodone abuse
• The unique dangers of snorting hydrocodone
• How to recognize and treat hydrocodone addiction
• Where to find opioid addiction treatment

If you or someone you love struggles with hydrocodone addiction, you are not alone. Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to explore our holistic addiction rehab programs. You may reach out with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Hydrocodone?

Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid drug used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is an active ingredient in several prescription painkillers, including Vicodin.

Like other opioids, hydrocodone is highly addictive. This drug works by binding to opioid receptors. It affects areas of the brain related to pain control, pleasure, and emotional regulation.

People may experience unintended side effects, including sedation and euphoria, while taking drugs containing hydrocodone. This can increase the likelihood of abuse and opioid addiction.

Hydrocodone abuse includes:

• Taking a larger dose than prescribed
• Taking it more often than prescribed
• Using it longer than prescribed
• Ingesting it differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting the pills
• Taking hydrocodone recreationally (without a prescription)

Medical professionals may prescribe opioids like hydrocodone for short-term use to reduce the risk of dependence. However, people who use these drugs under medical supervision may still develop symptoms of drug abuse.

What are the Dangers of Snorting Hydrocodone?

All hydrocodone abuse is dangerous, but snorting Vicodin and hydrocodone can have additional risks. People may snort this drug to get a more intense high. Snorting hydrocodone is a form of substance abuse.

Hydrocodone is a potent central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Snorting hydrocodone allows more of the drug to reach the bloodstream in less time. Using it in this way can increase the risk of overdose, which causes dangerous respiratory failure. An overdose can be fatal.

Some of the other effects of snorting hydrocodone include:

• Damage to the mucous membranes in the nasal passages and sinuses
• Perforated septum
• Chronic runny nose
• Damage to the lungs and respiratory system
• Liver toxicity
• Mental health conditions, including addiction
• Long-term cognitive impairment

Hydrocodone abuse, including snorting the drug, can quickly spiral into a life-threatening addiction. It also puts people at severe risk of a hydrocodone overdose. It is critical to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of addiction.

Recognizing Hydrocodone Abuse and Addiction

Hydrocodone abuse and addiction can have a profound, negative impact on a person’s health and well-being. Recognizing the signs of hydrocodone abuse can help you get help as quickly as possible.

Some signs of opioid or hydrocodone abuse include:

• Using an opioid medication differently than prescribed
• Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, and hobbies
• Increased isolation
• Needing to use more of a medication to get the desired effects
• Experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking hydrocodone
• Doing illegal or dishonest things to get more hydrocodone, such as stealing the drug, money, or valuables
• “Doctor shopping” (having multiple prescriptions for hydrocodone at more than one clinic)

Hydrocodone abuse and addiction are complex, dangerous conditions. People who abuse hydrocodone or other opioids are at risk of an overdose and other long-term consequences. People who develop hydrocodone addiction require comprehensive treatment and ongoing support to stop using it and avoid relapse.

Treating Hydrocodone Addiction

Overcoming hydrocodone addiction can be very challenging. During detox, many people experience severe withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Nausea
• Sweating
• Insomnia
• Shaking or tremors
• Intense muscle aches
• Chills
• Goosebumps
• Watery eyes
• Runny nose

Symptoms can be severe and long-lasting. This can make it very hard to avoid relapse.

A medically-supported detox program is usually the first stage of opioid addiction treatment. A detox program may include:

• Round-the-clock supervision and access to treatment
• Medical care
• Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms
• Emotional support, including individual and group counseling
• Mindfulness, nutrition support, exercise, and other holistic therapies

This treatment can help people navigate detox safely. It prepares people to participate in a comprehensive treatment program.

A comprehensive hydrocodone addiction treatment program may include:

• Mental health screenings and treatment
• Medical treatment and medications
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual, family, and group counseling
• Relapse prevention education
• Coping skills
• Education and support for family members 
• Mindfulness, yoga, nutrition support, exercise, and other holistic therapies

Addiction is a complex condition that requires ongoing commitment and support. After completing a rehab program, people must follow an aftercare program to keep them engaged in the recovery process.

During rehab, people begin to create their aftercare program. Aftercare programs might include:

• 12-step meetings
• Individual therapy
• Support groups
• Alum groups
• Mental health treatment
• Regular medical care
• Sober living

It can be very challenging to overcome hydrocodone addiction. However, getting the right type of support can help people put addiction in the past.

Find Treatment Now

If you or a loved one abuse hydrocodone or other opioids, seek treatment as quickly as possible. Find compassionate, holistic treatment and support at First Step Behavioral Health.

Contact our intake specialists to explore our treatment and recovery support programs. You may also reach out with questions or for help verifying insurance. Take the first step of your recovery journey by contacting us today.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Hydrocodone
2. NIH: Hydrocodone snorting leading to hypersensitivity pneumonitis
3. NIH: Intranasal Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen Abuse Induced Necrosis of the Nasal Cavity and Pharynx