Hydrocodone

Hydrocodone AcetaminophenHydrocodone (related to codeine) is in a class of drugs called narcotic analgesics. It is a pain reliever. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It relieves pain and decreases inflammation. Hydrocodone and ibuprofen are used together for the short-term treatment of pain.

Hydrocodone is an opiate used as an anti-cough agent as well as for pain control. It is about six times as strong as codeine and comparable to morphine in potency. It works by binding to pain receptors in the brain and blocking feelings pain. Hundreds of narcotic drugs contain hydrocodone. It is combined with aspirin to make Lortab, acetaminophen to make Vicodin, inbuprofen to make Vicoprofen as well as countless others. It comes in various forms including tablets, capsules, and syrups.

Hydrocodone, as an ingredient of any narcotic, can cause dizziness, nausea, sedation, vomiting and constipation. It is not uncommon to overdose on many forms of hydrocodone.

The DEA reports that hydrocodone may be the most commonly abused prescription drug in the country. Abuse of hydrocodone is most common through oral administration rather than intravenously.

Hydrocodone produces a high similar to heroin. Some describe it as calm. It also produces pain relief. Because hydrocodone is combined with other non-narcotic medicines to create prescription medication, these drugs are classified as Schedule III. There are still regulated by federal law but have fewer restrictions on use and distribution. They are more easily accessed, abused and sold on the street.

Norco, the brand name for a combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone, normally prescribed for pain relief, is one of the most commonly abused drugs containing hydrocodone. Acetaminophen stops the production of a hormone like substance that causes pain and increases the effects of hydrocodone. Norco's combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen make it very powerful. Norco will increase the effects of other drugs such as alcohol, anxiety medication and antidepressants.

Vicoprofen, a short term pain reliever which contains hydrocodone, is frequently abused. Vicoprofen combines hydrocodone with ibuprofen, Similar to norco, it produces a very powerful high.

Dependence on products containing hydrocodone such as Vicoprofen and Norco usually develops rapidly, sometimes in less than a month. Because of its widespread availability, hydrocodone addiction affects various ages and backgrounds. Reports of dependence on hydrocodone continually increase. Help is available. If you need more information about addiction to hydrocodone, hydrocodone detox or other opiates, please call us.