The recent crackdown on opioid prescriptions has placed many people with hydrocodone dependence in a situation that could leave them with few alternatives to either quitting the drug or seeking it out on the illegal market. Hydrocodone detox combined with a quality treatment program can break the dependence with little to no long-term side effects.
Hydrocodone is an opium-derived drug that is commonly prescribed under the name Vicodin. As an opiate medication, with it comes the very real possibility of tolerance and dependence when used over a long period of time. It is most commonly used as a painkiller, especially for those individuals plagued by chronic conditions that cause extreme discomfort. Laws are increasingly enacted to bring tighter control over prescriptions of this type, but there are already millions of people with a current level of dependency at some level.
Can you develop an addiction to Hydrocodone?
One of the biggest drawbacks of any opioid drug is the potential for the development of dependence and addiction. As with any opiate, the constant use of hydrocodone causes the body to build tolerance, requiring a higher level of drug to be administered to achieve the necessary painkilling effect. Through tolerance comes dependence and addiction. You can have dependence without addiction, but any patient that develops dependence is at high-risk for a full-blown addiction.
Will I go through withdrawal?
Any level of dependence to an opioid drug will lead to a nearly immediate influx of withdrawal symptoms. The range of symptoms can be anything from slight discomfort and irritability to life-threatening experiences. The level of withdrawal will largely depend on the length of time you have been taking hydrocodone and the amounts used. It is important to discuss your current use with a drug detox professional before attempting to cease using your prescription.
Do I need to undergo inpatient treatment?
An intake expert will need to document your history of hydrocodone use and current level of dependency or addiction to determine whether you would benefit from complete inpatient treatment. It is almost always recommended to detox in a supervised setting to keep you safe from adverse reactions and health monitoring. The detox team will be able to supervise and provide ways to alleviate any severe withdrawal symptoms. It offers the most comfortable and safe way to detox from hydrocodone. Light use and dependence can sometimes be handled on an outpatient basis.
How long will detox and treatment take?
The length of time needed for complete detox can vary greatly by individual. The reason for this has to do with the individual nature of each dependency, amount of drug used, and comfort level during the detox process. Some people are comfortable with a fast-paced program, whereas others need a slower approach. You can plan on detox taking up to a few weeks time. Every program can be adjusted to maintain an optimal level of comfort.
How can I manage my pain without Hydrocodone?
One of the greatest fears that keep individuals from seeking help from hydrocodone dependence is wondering how to combat pain without the normal drug of choice. Severe injuries and certain diseases can cause a great deal of chronic pain. The hydrocodone dependence seems to be the only thing that holds back the waves of pain that make life miserable. During the treatment process, medical professionals will help you find non-addictive painkillers and non-pharmaceutical ways to help reduce and manage pain. You will learn simple lifestyle changes you can make that will reduce pain naturally. Ridding your body of hydrocodone can also help clear up possible memory and confusion problems. You will find your focus and attention span increasing.
Leave Dependence On Hydrocodone Behind
Your body and mind become dependent on medications when there is a lack of alternatives offered. You can eliminate the dangers of slipping into addiction by breaking the dependence on hydrocodone. You might be surprised at how well your body and mind respond to leaving hydrocodone dependency behind.
No matter how long you have been chained to the use of hydrocodone to control pain, eliminating dependence is possible by using the right detox program and drug treatment therapy. You will enjoy a better quality of life and immediately begin to improve your overall health.