Hydrocodone is an addictive opioid. An addiction can develop in anyone taking the drug. While people may try to hide a drug dependence, there are signs that can reveal drug abuse.
Signs of Hydrocodone Abuse
People may feel shame for their drug use, but want to keep using drugs. Many people show common signs of drug abuse, even if they try to hide it. If a loved one uses opioids, keep an eye out for the following signs of drug abuse:
- Always having pills
- Hiding pills in their car or at home
- Lying about taking pills
- Seeing more than one doctor at a time
- Faking pain or injury
- Mood changes, like angry outbursts
- Spending money quickly
Addiction can also cause mental effects, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Mood changes
- General disinterest
- Concentration issues
Effects of Hydrocodone Abuse
Hydrocodone can negatively affect a person’s life when it is misused. There are many health and social issues caused by opioid abuse.
Side effects of hydrocodone abuse are:
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Slow heartbeat
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Blurry vision
- Trouble hearing
- Dizziness
- Impaired motor skills
- Impaired cognition
- Depression
- Liver damage
- Jaundice
- Anxiety
- Coma
- Addiction
- Death
Opioid abuse also has social effects. As abuse turns into addiction, a person may face a demotion, job loss, lower grades or other issues. They may also lose interest in hobbies and relationships.
Recognizing a Hydrocodone Addiction
If a person notices any signs of hydrocodone abuse in a loved one, an addiction may develop if it has not already. It’s normal to feel sad, disappointed or embarrassed about having an addiction, but it’s important to remember that addiction is a disease that needs medical attention. Talk to a doctor if any of the previous signs are relatable and opioid use is present.
Staging a Hydrocodone Intervention
A person can play a key role in helping a loved one get help. If signs of addiction appear in a friend or relative, an intervention may help. Setting one up may be the most constructive way to talk to them about their drug abuse. Interventions are a scheduled, civil talk between a person who is addicted to drugs and their loved ones.
After a successful drug intervention, rehab may be desired. Call The Recovery Village to learn how professional drug rehab can address an addiction. Start a healthier future today, call now.
Hydrocodone Withdrawal and Detox Locations
Mixing Hydrocodone and Alcohol
MacLaren, Erik. “Hydrocodone Abuse Signs, Symptoms, an[…]iction Treatment.” DrugAbuse.com, November 25, 2018. Accessed 20 Jan. 2017.
Smith, Kayla. “Hydrocodone Symptoms and Warning Signs of Addiction.” Addiction Center, November 25, 2018. Accessed 20 Jan. 2017.
The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.