Hydrocodone is a powerful, addictive prescription drug. If you or someone you love lives with an addiction to this potent opioid, you may see the complications and dangers it can cause. A comprehensive addiction treatment program is the first step of lifelong recovery for people living with hydrocodone addiction.
This article will explore what to expect during hydrocodone addiction treatment. You will learn:
- How hydrocodone addiction develops
- How to recognize opioid abuse and addiction
- What to expect from a hydrocodone abuse treatment program
- Where to find hydrocodone addiction treatment in Pompano Beach
If you or someone you love needs treatment for hydrocodone addiction, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at First Step Behavioral Health to learn about our comprehensive treatment and support programs.
Take the first step of your recovery journey by contacting us today.
Hydrocodone Dependence: An Overview
Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid painkiller. Doctors may prescribe hydrocodone to patients experiencing moderate to severe pain.[1] People typically take prescription opioid pain relievers to manage pain after surgery or during treatment for chronic health conditions.
Hydrocodone slows central nervous system (CNS) activity. People who take it experience pain relief. They may also experience other side effects, including:[1,2]
- Anxiety
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Itching
- Nausea
- Small pupils
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Vomiting
Hydrocodone binds to opioid receptors in parts of the brain responsible for emotional regulation and pleasure. People may experience euphoria (intense pleasure and well-being) while taking hydrocodone.
Pleasurable side effects of hydrocodone can make people want to use it differently than prescribed. People who misuse this prescription opioid may develop physical dependence after some time.
Hydrocodone misuse includes:
- Taking a larger dose than prescribed
- Taking hydrocodone more often than prescribed
- Taking it for a longer period than prescribed
- Ingesting it differently than prescribed, such as crushing the pills and snorting them
- Taking it without a prescription (recreational use)
Hydrocodone abuse and addiction can be life-threatening. Taking large doses puts people at risk of dangerous respiratory depression and other harm.
People who develop a physical dependence on hydrocodone may require intensive treatment and support to quit using it.
Recognizing Hydrocodone Abuse
Opioid abuse and addiction can change the way someone looks, thinks, and behaves. Noticing the signs of hydrocodone abuse can help you get help as quickly as possible.
Some common signs of hydrocodone abuse include:
- Using an opioid medication differently than prescribed
- Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, and hobbies
- Isolating
- Needing to use more hydrocodone to get the desired effects
- Experiencing opioid withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking hydrocodone
- Doing risky, illegal, or out-of-character things to get more hydrocodone
- Having multiple prescriptions for hydrocodone at different clinics
Hydrocodone abuse is dangerous. People who abuse this potent drug are at risk of opioid overdose and other long-term complications. Substance use disorder (SUD) treatment can help people safely stop using opioids and work toward a healthier future.
What Happens in Hydrocodone Addiction Treatment?
Hydrocodone withdrawal can be very challenging. Getting physical and mental health care is essential to overcoming this stage of substance abuse and addiction.
A medically assisted treatment (MAT) program is typically the first step of a hydrocodone addiction treatment program. You may complete detox in a treatment center before transitioning to another level of care.
During detox from hydrocodone, you may experience withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Insomnia
- Shaking or tremors
- Intense muscle aches
- Chills
- Goosebumps
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
Your treatment team will consist of mental health and medical professionals. These caring specialists will monitor your withdrawal symptoms and provide treatment. Your treatment plan may include:[3]
- Medications to reduce cravings and other withdrawal symptoms
- A safe, secure treatment setting
- Round-the-clock access to mental and physical health care
- Emotional support, including individual and group counseling, when appropriate
- Holistic therapies to soothe the body and mind, such as yoga, nutrition support, and mindfulness
Your treatment team will create a detox plan to meet your unique needs. This level of care and treatment can help you navigate the earliest days of recovery without relapsing.
After finishing detox, you must continue the treatment process. A comprehensive treatment program in Pompano Beach may include:
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual and group counseling
- Medical treatment and medications
- Mental health screenings and treatment
- Relapse prevention education
- Coping skills
- Education and therapy for family members or loved ones
- Art therapy, mindfulness, yoga, nutrition support, exercise, and other holistic therapies
- Aftercare planning
Hydrocodone addiction is a complex condition with roots in a person’s experiences, genetics, behaviors, and more. Comprehensive treatment programs can address the underlying physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of addiction. Psychotherapy, medical care, community support, and other therapies can give people the tools they need to work toward lifelong sobriety.
Find Hydrocodone Addiction Treatment in Pompano Beach Now
If you or someone you love struggles with hydrocodone abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists now to take the first step of your lifelong recovery journey.
References:
- National Institute of Health: Hydrocodone
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Hydrocodone
- National Institute of Health: Clinical Guidelines for Withdrawal Management and Treatment of Drug Dependence in Closed Settings
