Signs of Hydrocodone Addiction You Can’t Miss

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Hydrocodone is an analgesic pain reliever prescribed by doctors for mild to moderate pain. It is one of the most widely prescribed pain-relieving drugs in the U.S.In 2024, 47.4 million prescriptions were dispensed for products that contained this medication.

When hydrocodone is taken correctly, it is very effective, but it can also be habit-forming. Though addiction is not as likely following prescribed use, taking more than the prescribed amount or using hydrocodone just to get high can be both dangerous and deadly. Often, a tolerance can be built up to the drug, requiring more and more to achieve the same effect, which ultimately leads to physical dependence and continued misuse.

There are many indicators that the use of hydrocodone has gone from its intended use to a full-blown addiction. If you are worried that a loved one might be addicted to hydrocodone, here are five of the most common signs to look for.

Signs of Hydrocodone Addiction

1. Droopy Eyelids

You might be sitting across from your loved one and notice that their eyelids are droopy or heavy. They may only be able to lift one, while the other remains down. When you ask about it, they might say they’re just tired.

2. Slurred Speech

Excessive sleeping is a sign of hydrocodone addiction.

It may sound like the person under the influence has been drinking alcohol. Their speech may be slowed and slurred, and they might confuse words or only speak in partial sentences. It may cause the person to be so incoherent that you are unable to understand what they are trying to say.

3. Excessive Sleeping

One moment you are trying to have a conversation with your loved one, and the next, they are asleep in the very spot where they sit. It might be at the kitchen table or even while out to dinner at a restaurant. Or you might notice that they are sleeping for extended periods of time or at unusual times when they are not ordinarily sleeping.

4. Talking about Hydrocodone Constantly

If you find that your loved one is always talking about taking hydrocodone, trying to obtain the drug, or worried if they have enough of the medication, this can be a big indicator that your loved one has a hydrocodone addiction and might need help for their problem. Often, in the midst of an addiction, the user just can’t stop thinking and talking about the drug.

5. Seeing Many Doctors for the Same Injury

If you notice that your loved one is going to multiple doctors for the same problem and obtaining medication from more than one doctor for the same injury or illness this could indicate that your loved one is addicted to hydrocodone.

Although addiction is very serious and getting your loved one off the drug is urgent, a cold turkey detox is unsafe and not recommended. Professional treatment is recommended when stopping any use of an opiate, as the withdrawal symptoms can be very dangerous.

Consult your family doctor for more resources on how to find help for yourself or someone you love. You can also use the SAMHSA Treatment Locator or call 800-934-1582(Sponsored) .

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