Hydrocodone, a commonly prescribed painkiller used to treat moderate to severe pain, derives from the poppy plant. While it effectively treats pain, it is also a highly addictive substance. Many people who use hydrocodone for extended periods develop a dependence on it, causing withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it. Withdrawal symptoms from hydrocodone can be uncomfortable and dangerous, so it is important to understand the process.
What are hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms? They can be physically and mentally taxing, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain. Seeking professional help can greatly reduce the risk of relapse and other negative effects. At BrightView, we offer a range of addiction treatment options, including medication assisted treatment, outpatient programs, and individual, group, and family therapy. Contact us today at 888.501.9865 to start your journey toward recovery.
What Are Hydrocodone Withdrawal Symptoms?
Withdrawal symptoms are the physical and psychological reactions occurring when a person stops taking a drug. The symptoms vary depending on the drug, duration of use, and dose. Hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms can be severe and start within a few hours after the last dose. Some common symptoms include:
- Muscle aches and pains
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Sweating
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Cravings for the drug
- Shaking and tremors
- Rapid heartbeat
These symptoms can be painful and uncomfortable, so people often use hydrocodone to avoid withdrawal.
The Withdrawal Process
Withdrawal symptoms for hydrocodone can start six to 12 hours after the last dose. The length and severity depend on individual factors such as:
- The length of time a person has been using hydrocodone
- The dose taken
- The method of ingestion, such as oral or intravenous
- The person’s overall health
Withdrawal typically lasts five to 14 days, with the most severe symptoms occurring during the first week. After that, the symptoms gradually reduce in intensity. However, some people may experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), lasting several months to a year. PAWS is characterized by symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
How to Manage Hydrocodone Withdrawal Symptoms?
Withdrawal symptoms from hydrocodone can be managed through medical and behavioral interventions. In some cases, the best course of treatment is to gradually reduce the dose over a period of time under the supervision of a healthcare provider. This is known as tapering. Tapering can help to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms and lower the risk of relapse.
Behavioral interventions such as individual or group therapy can also effectively manage hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms. Therapy can help to address the psychological and emotional factors that contributed to the addiction and provide coping skills for managing cravings and triggers.
Find Support for Overcoming Hydrocodone Addiction at BrightView
BrightView offers outpatient services that can help individuals struggling with hydrocodone addiction. Our evidence-based treatment programs utilize medication assisted treatment, which combines medication with behavioral therapy to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse. We offer individual, group, and family therapy to help individuals address the root causes of addiction and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Our treatment options are tailored to the unique needs of each individual, and we provide peer recovery support as part of our program. We promote a friendly and respectful atmosphere emphasizing the importance of ease of access, environment, and immediacy of care. Out team is committed to providing quality care to all our patients, regardless of their insurance coverage or background.
If you or a loved one is struggling with hydrocodone addiction, please get in touch with BrightView today. We can help you understand the withdrawal process and provide the support you need to overcome addiction. Remember, you don’t have to go it alone. Call 888.501.9865 or complete our online form to get started.
