Hydrocodone is an opioid medication prescribed to help people manage their pain. Used for short or long term purposes, hydrocodone may also be prescribed to treat other conditions such as chronic cough, pain from cancer, and arthritis. Other brand names that may be marketed as hydrocodone are: Vicodin, Lortab, Norco, Xodol, Zydone, Maxidone, Zamicet, and more. Hydrocodone is classified as a schedule II drug, meaning that it can be highly misused. If you have recently been prescribed hydrocodone, make sure that you have spoken with your doctor regarding proper doses and any symptoms that may be of concern.
The United States National Library of Medicine states that hydrocodone is a semisynthetic derivative of codeine or thebaine, alkaloids that are derived from poppy seeds. Hydrocodone is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in healthcare facilities. By attaching to opioid receptors in the brain, hydrocodone reduces pain and creates feelings of euphoria. Side effects of hydrocodone often include anxiety, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, dry mouth, and ringing in the ears. Extended or prolonged abuse of hydrocodone can be very dangerous, with serious side effects including bowel obstruction, breathing problems, slowed or irregular heartbeat, severe allergic reaction, trouble urinating, vomiting, and more.
Dependency is also a risk factor with hydrocodone, as taking more than prescribed and for longer periods of time can cause the body to become reliant on the medication to feel calm, relaxed, and for feelings of happiness to arise. Mixing hydrocodone with other medications/drugs such as Percocet, can be highly dangerous. Always speak with a doctor before mixing any medications, even if they are “all-natural” supplements.
Hydrocodone can be easily misused, so always make sure that you keep close contact with your healthcare team to ensure you don’t become dependent or addicted on the medication.
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