Last Updated: October 28, 2022

Ohio and many other parts of the country are in the midst of an opioid epidemic, and a large part of the problem stems from prescription painkillers like hydrocodone. Whether you live in Cleveland, Cincinnati or Columbus, hydrocodone addiction is a prevalent issue.

Hydrocodone is a generic drug found in brand-name medications like Lortab and Vicodin. Both hydrocodone and its brand names are among the most commonly prescribed opioids in the United States. When used, hydrocodone binds to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, changing the way the brain perceives pain and flooding it with feel-good chemicals. It also slows down all of the processes in the body that are controlled by the central nervous system.

Many people believe that if a drug is prescribed by a physician, it is safe. This is not the case with opioids like hydrocodone, and addiction is a real possibility with these powerful drugs. Fortunately, professional treatment at a licensed rehab facility can help you recover from hydrocodone abuse and addiction.

Is Hydrocodone an Opioid?

Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid medication that works on mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system to promote pain relief. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of pain and cough.

The side effects of hydrocodone are similar to those of other opioids and may include:

• Lightheadedness
• Dizziness
• Sedation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation

Over the long term, chronic hydrocodone use can lead to health problems like:

• Sleep apnea
• Falls
• Weak production of sex hormones like testosterone
• Erectile problems
• Infertility
• Osteoporosis
• Cognitive problems
• Increased pain sensitivity
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Apathy
• Muscle twitching
• Tooth decay

Is Hydrocodone Addictive?

Hydrocodone is an extremely addictive drug. As a Schedule II controlled substance, hydrocodone has a high potential for abuse, dependence and addiction. Due to these risks, doctors prescribe the drug with caution.

Hydrocodone Addiction Symptoms

When a person develops a hydrocodone addiction, they often start to display certain symptoms. These symptoms can be behavioral in nature, and loved ones may be able to notice that the person is starting to act differently. Common symptoms linked to addiction include:

• Spending time with a different social group than usual
• Not caring about personal appearance
• Poor performance at school or work
• Missing important deadlines at school or work
• Losing interest in activities that were once enjoyed
• Trouble with school, work, family or the law
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits
• Spending a lot of time trying to get hydrocodone
• Going to different doctors or pharmacies to seek hydrocodone

These signs can indicate a person is struggling with hydrocodone and may benefit from addiction treatment.

Hydrocodone Withdrawal Symptoms

When a person takes a medicine like hydrocodone over the long term, their body becomes used to its presence and starts relying on it to feel normal. This is called physical dependence. When a person with dependence stops taking the drug, they can experience uncomfortable hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can begin as soon as eight hours after the last dose of hydrocodone and can last up to 10 days. Hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms include:

• Muscle aches 
• Insomnia 
• Teary eyes
• Sweating 
• Runny nose 
• Yawning 
• Big pupils 
• Abdominal cramping 
• Goosebumps 
• Nausea or vomiting
• Agitation 
• Anxiety 
• Diarrhea

After the initial withdrawal symptoms have improved, a person may still experience protracted withdrawal symptoms for weeks or months. These include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue
• Mood problems
• Irritability
• Cognitive and attention issues

Hydrocodone Detox

Detox is the first step in recovering from hydrocodone addiction. During detox, your body eliminates hydrocodone from its system and begins to overcome its dependence on the drug. 

Hydrocodone detox is often performed in an inpatient setting so that withdrawal symptoms can be quickly treated. During this medically supervised detox, you may begin medication-assisted treatment (MAT) using medications like methadone or buprenorphine. This common but effective approach to addiction treatment helps people overcome their reliance on hydrocodone. 

After detox is complete, the hard but necessary work of rehab begins. In rehab, you explore why you began to rely on hydrocodone in the first place and build up the skills you will need to live a hydrocodone-free life. 

Hydrocodone Addiction Treatment in Ohio

Typically, hydrocodone rehab begins with medically supervised detox followed by an inpatient hydrocodone treatment program. An inpatient program may consist of individual therapy, group counseling, family counseling, life skills classes and recreational activities. During inpatient rehab, you live at the facility to fully focus on your recovery.

Outpatient hydrocodone addiction treatment programs are also available. They typically follow an inpatient program, but people with less severe addictions may begin outpatient treatment after detox. In outpatient rehab, you live at home and visit the facility for therapy and counseling. Teletherapy is also available.

After outpatient rehab, aftercare programs help you stay focused on your recovery over the long term. Aftercare can include 12-step programs, alumni events, routine check-ins, peer support groups and more.

Does Insurance Cover Rehab for Hydrocodone Addiction?

If you have a hydrocodone addiction, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. Addiction is a chronic disease that requires treatment, which is why many insurance plans cover rehabilitation at treatment facilities like The Recovery Village Columbus. Most insurance providers will cover some or all of the costs of rehab, but it’s a good idea to verify what services may be covered. Learn more about the insurance plans we accept.

If you or someone you love is struggling with hydrocodone addiction, help is available at The Recovery Village Columbus. Our addiction experts will work with you to create an individualized plan of treatment that effectively addresses your unique situation and needs in recovery. Contact us today to learn more about hydrocodone addiction treatment programs that can work well for your needs.