Hydrocodone withdrawal can be countered with proper treatment and some home remedies. This article provides some information about such remedies.
Hydrocodone is a prescription drug that is used as a pain reliever as well as a cough suppressant. This drug is sold in the market under various brand names, like vicodin, lorcet, norco, hycodan, and hycomine; and is available as tablet, capsule, and liquid form. Being a narcotic analgesic, hydrocodone is often combined with paracetamol or ibuprofen, to control its misuse.
This drug is mostly administered to those patients, who have trouble taking codeine. However, it is addictive, if used in high doses and for a long duration. So, hydrocodone is also one of the most abused prescription drugs. Even genuine users get addicted to this drug, and develop withdrawal symptoms, as they discontinue its use.
Hydrocodone Withdrawal
It is a common fact that some of the prescription drugs can cause addiction that will give rise to withdrawal symptoms, once discontinued. Hydrocodone is one such drug that can cause addiction, if used for a long term or in high doses. Even those who misuse this drug for recreational uses develop addiction and withdrawal symptoms. The degree of severity of symptoms may vary from one person to another, and is dependent on the degree of addiction.
The withdrawal symptoms include irritability, depression, mood swings, insomnia, nausea, diarrhea, muscle pain, weakness, excessive sweating, runny nose, and yawning. The person may become more sensitive to pain, and may also develop fever and body chills. A strong craving for the drug is one of the most common withdrawal symptoms associated with this drug.
It is said that, if taken in large doses, addiction to hydrocodone may develop in a single week. Usually, the withdrawal symptoms appear within six to 24 hours after the last dose of the drug, and last for four to five days. It may take a week or two, for the symptoms to subside.
How to Get Over Hydrocodone Withdrawal
This can be achieved through symptomatic treatment, and total refrain from use of hydrocodone. While some experts recommend gradual lowering of dosage before complete discontinuation of the drug; some others go for total refrain from usage, as soon as the patient develops withdrawal symptoms. The second method will be more suitable for those with mild symptoms.
Symptoms are treated individually, using prescription medication. For instance, if the patient develops pain, analgesics will be administered. Each symptom will be treated individually. In severe cases, another prescription drug, called methadone, may also be used for relief from the symptoms. Some patients may be referred to drug rehabilitation centers. Increasing water intake is one of the home remedies to manage such withdrawal symptoms. Water intake is also beneficial to prevent dehydration, if the person is suffering from vomiting and diarrhea. Water is also good for eliminating toxins from the body.
In short, hydrocodone withdrawal remedies can effectively alleviate the symptoms, and bring the person back to normal health. It is always better to prevent the condition, by sticking to the proper doses, as prescribed by your doctor. Others should not misuse the drug for recreational purposes. In case of withdrawal symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Never use this drug, without a doctor’s prescription. If the doctor has prescribed hydrocodone, seek his consent before discontinuation of the drug.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.
