The long-term signs of hydrocodone abuse include almost certain dependence, increasing the risk of addiction, serious, possibly irreversible, health problems, and death. Reduced stress and worry, which can lead to rationalizing use and cause risk-taking behavior.Increased tolerance, leading to higher dosages.Increased drowsiness, lethargy, and confusion.An artificial sense of well-being or euphoric feelings. This is partly because the drug causes a flood of dopamine in the pleasure/reward center of the brain. The initial signs of hydrocodone abuse use are pleasurable, and this can lead users to continue to take the drug even after it’s no longer needed to relieve pain. This may lead those at the threshold of dependence or addiction to ask for a refill or extension or to divert the medication from others with a legal prescription. In fact, early withdrawal symptoms mimic continued pain from the original medical procedure or injury. Dependence means that the brain requires it in order to perform functions that have been turned over to artificial stimulation by drugs. Tolerance means more of the drug is necessary over time to experience the same effects. Both occur because the brain and body become accustomed to the presence of the drug, and individuals have trouble functioning at a ‘normal’ level without it. One immediate short-term effect is the possibility of developing dependence or tolerance for hydrocodone. Most symptoms of hydrocodone abuse are relatively mild when abuse isn’t a factor, but there can still be some short-term effects that require attention. The typical prescription for hydrocodone indicates a dosage of two tablets taken every 4 – 6 hours, as needed to treat pain. It is even commonly prescribed to children and teens in certain circumstances. Hydrocodone is a very common and popular prescription painkiller. As long as there’s no dependency or addiction, there should be no withdrawal period once the medication is discontinued. These effects ease after the drug is out of the system with no treatment necessary. Other immediate side effects, which can occur even when the drug is taken as prescribed, include: The addition of acetaminophen increases the risk of liver damage with prolonged or heavy use. When signs of hydrocodone abuse is a factor, the side effects are more pronounced and dangerous. These effects can be multiplied and become deadly if the drug is taken with other drugs or alcohol, or when the drug is used while operating vehicles or heavy machinery. They include mild nausea, headache, and drowsiness. Side effects are not too bad when taking the drug for a short time under the guidance of a doctor. Hydrocodone is a prescription painkiller that’s abused by nearly two million people every year. What Are the Side Effects of Hydrocodone Misuse? Some users often become constipated after a few days of regular use. Shortly after taking a dose, there may be slight stomach pain and nausea. They’ll become drowsy about an hour after taking the medication, but the effects begin faster if the user crushes and snorts the pills. People taking medications that contain hydrocodone will often exhibit symptoms of deep relaxation and mild euphoria. This can cause someone to develop an addiction to hydrocodone in secret, with no outward signs or symptoms until it has taken firm hold. It’s important to monitor patients with known prescriptions for sympotoms of hydrocodone abuse, but hydrocodone abuse in those who are taking it in excess or covertly may be hiding any tell-tale signs of misuse. What are the symptoms of addiction and signs of hydrocodone abuse, and what can friends, family members, and the medical community do to help? Are There Signs of Hydrocodone Use? The short- and long-term effects of hydrocodone misuse can cause brain dysfunction and ongoing health problems.
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