Hydrocodone Addiction & Treatment Options

Addiction to painkillers is a serious issue that my require medical intervention. Keep reading for details on a range of hydrocodone addiction treatment options.

Hydrocodone was once the most prescribed drug in America, with 120 million prescriptions in 2014 alone.

Its production has more than doubled in the past decade, which has led to increased availability in the drug market. It’s almost no surprise that hydrocodone addiction has reached alarming heights.

It’s believed that more than 99% of U.S prescriptions for hydrocodone are abused. In fact, the Drug Enforcement Administration reveals that an astounding 24.4 million people over age 12 have used hydrocodone for non-medical reasons.

Hydrocodone remains a highly addicting substance. In many cases, it can present a life or death situation.

Understanding its warning signs and variety of treatment options can help banish addiction. Are you ready to regain control of your life before it’s too late?

Signs of Hydrocodone Addiction

Hydrocodone abuse occurs when someone uses the drug for something other than how it’s been prescribed. For example, someone may take more than the recommended dosage or someone may use the drug without a prescription. Both cases would be considered abuse.

However, abuse doesn’t necessarily indicate addiction. Rather, it’s repeated abuse that can often lead to hydrocodone addiction.

Once a user becomes addicted, he or she feels as though they must take hydrocodone on a regular basis. They may believe they cannot perform normal tasks or get through a day without it.

Even when faced with side effects, addicted users will continue to use hydrocodone.

They may lie to doctors to continue receiving their prescription refills. Some may even see multiple doctors to increase their supply.

Eventually, using hydrocodone becomes more important than seeing friends. Users no longer go to work or take part in other activities they once enjoyed.

Instead, they become consumed with their newfound hobby. They tend to isolate themselves frequently.

Frequent use can lead to tolerance. This means that a user will need to increase their intake to achieve the desired results.

It’s crucial to recognize these symptoms as potential signs of addiction early. This way, you can seek treatment sooner to overcome them. The longer you wait, the more difficult it can be to conquer hydrocodone addiction.

Best Treatment for Hydrocodone Addiction

There is no single solution that’s ideal for every case of hydrocodone addiction. The best treatment option depends on the severity of the addiction and other factors.

Outpatient Treatment

This option is often pursued by individuals who realize they have an addiction. They see outpatients as a means to help themselves.

Candidates for outpatient treatment can fulfill program requirements without constant supervision. This gives them the flexibility to continue working or attending school.

Their symptoms are usually mild. They’re not a flight risk. Their condition is usually stable.

Programs offered by outpatient treatment centers vary. Patients may be required to attend the center for a certain number of hours each day or week. Programs may be group-based or one-on-one consultations with doctors or counselors.

Not every patient will successfully beat their addiction with outpatient care. A doctor will assess each patient prior to entering outpatient treatment. He or she will determine if this is the best option for their needs.

Inpatient Rehabilitation

Severe addiction cases will likely require inpatient rehabilitation, sometimes referred to as residential treatment. Patients live at the facility during their treatment until the end of their program.

In many cases, programs last a minimum of 28 days, with some offering longer terms.

The key advantage of inpatient rehab programs is safety. Patients can detox from their addiction in a supervised environment.

During inpatient rehab patients receive a myriad of treatment techniques during their stay. These treatments may include therapy, counseling, medication, and education.

Withdrawing from opiates, such as hydrocodone, can present harsh side effects. Nurses and staff members are available 24/7. Rehab staff may be able to mitigate and manage these side effects through the use of medication, if appropriate.

Medications like Suboxone or naltrexone can help ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. These medications have been proven to decrease hydrocodone (opiate) use. They may also increase the likelihood of remaining within the treatment program.

Inpatient treatment centers offer access to medical personnel who can administer these medications.

Inpatient treatment lets the patient focus on nothing but their sobriety. It eliminates outside distractions and prevents them from associating with fellow users.

Patients receiving residential rehab care have time to reflect on how they became addicted to hydrocodone in the first place. This may help them understand what they need to do to prevent a relapse in the future.

As part of the program, they may be required to attend education sessions. These sessions may help them learn about relapse prevention, coping mechanisms, and brain training.

Treatment programs may offer a combination of several treatments. One-on-one counseling, group therapy sessions, and behavioral therapy are common options. These treatments can help them to live a healthy, productive life once they leave the treatment center.

Inpatient care remains the most comprehensive option. It offers each patient a variety of treatments to overcome their addiction based on their unique needs.

Group-Led Alternatives

In addition to treatment centers, group-led alternatives may be a viable treatment option. Hydrocodone users may find courage and support through others to overcome addiction.

Programs like a 12-step program, SMART recovery, or other support groups support groups can help them feel less alone in their addiction battle. These programs help them learn from others who are going through similar trials.

There is no one-fits-all plan to help those suffering from hydrocodone addiction. Some users may need a combination of several treatment options to help them eliminate their internal need to use hydrocodone.

It’s also important to understand that detoxing from hydrocodone isn’t a cure. That’s why many programs, whether inpatient, outpatient, or group-led, extend far beyond detox periods. These programs ensure participants have the best chance of beating their addiction.

In Closing

The future for someone with a hydrocodone addiction may seem dim, but it’s never too late to get help. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, it’s crucial to seek help immediately – it could save a life.

Call us for a confidential phone consultation today. It could put you or someone you love on the path to recovery.