6 Things Your Doctor Never Told You about Becoming Dependent on Hydrocodone

Get Help Now 800-934-1582 Sponsored

Hydrocodone is one of the most popular opioid medications available today. However, anyone who takes it regularly for more than a few weeks should also be aware of narcotic dependence, so here are 6 things your doctor probably never told you about hydrocodone dependency.

If you or someone you love has been suffering from substance abuse, call 800-934-1582(Sponsored) now to find safe, reliable treatment.

1. Dependence is a Common Side Effect of Normal Opioid Use.

Many individuals become dependent on opioid drugs every year without abusing them. This occurs simply because a person takes these drugs consistently and often for a long period of time, usually more than a few weeks to a few months.

It is possible to be dependent on an opioid without being addicted to it.

2. You Will Need to Be Weaned Off the Drug.

As a result of dependence, if you are ready to stop taking your hydrocodone medication, you will need to be weaned off it slowly rather than stopping it all at once. This is because opioids can cause withdrawal symptoms in those who become dependent on them. These withdrawal symptoms are not usually life-threatening; however, they can be extremely uncomfortable and overwhelming. For this reason, addiction professionals recommend a medically supervised detox plan.

3. Tolerance and Dependency Go Hand-in-Hand.

Hydrocodone is highly addictive and can lead to abuse.

Most individuals do not realize that, over time, the same dosage of hydrocodone will not allow them to experience the same effects. This is called tolerance, and while it is another natural occurrence when a person takes hydrocodone or any narcotic­­ for a prolonged period, it can cause potential issues for the user.

4. Dependency Can, Potentially, Lead to Abuse.

In some cases, people who become dependent on hydrocodone without ever having abused their medication may start doing so because they feel like they need the drug to feel good, get out of bed in the morning, etc. Some individuals may try to get more of the drug from another doctor if their doctor tries to cut back on their regimen, while others may try to take more to counteract tolerance. This is how many people move from taking their medication as prescribed to abusing it.

5. Hydrocodone Is a Particularly Dangerous Opioid.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, “Hydrocodone is the most frequently prescribed opioid in the United States and is associated with more drug abuse and diversion than any other licit or illicit opioid.”

If you are abusing hydrocodone, it is important to seek help right away.

6. You May Still Require Professional Treatment for Dependence, Even if You’re Not Abusing Hydrocodone.

Even if you become dependent on the drug purely because of your medication regimen, getting weaned off it can be difficult and may require more than just a tapering schedule. You may have to attend detox treatment for your dependency.

Surprising and True Facts About Hydrocodone

Hydrocodone is one of the most commonly prescribed, and commonly abused, prescription painkillers on the market.

You may need to be treated with methadone, buprenorphine, or clonidine instead of having your hydrocodone dosage tapered off. This is sometimes necessary, especially when the symptoms caused by hydrocodone withdrawal are severe.

Have You Been Abusing Hydrocodone or Another Drug?

Call 800-934-1582(Sponsored) today to find help and locate detox programs that will cater to your needs.

Narcotics.com is user supported. We receive a commission fee from purchases made through BetterHelp links. Learn More