Hydrocodone Addiction & Treatment | Serenity at Summit

Understanding Hydrocodone Addiction

Hydrocodone, one of the most commonly prescribed opioids in the United States, is a central contributor to the ongoing opioid epidemic. Often prescribed for severe pain resulting from surgery, injury, or chronic conditions, its high potential for misuse and addiction has devastating consequences. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 21–29% of patients prescribed opioids for chronic pain end up misusing them. Hydrocodone addiction often begins with a legitimate prescription and can quickly spiral into dependency.

The opioid crisis claims thousands of lives each year, leaving behind grieving families and overwhelmed healthcare systems. Addressing hydrocodone addiction early can save lives and prevent the long-term damage associated with substance use disorder.

How Does Hydrocodone Work?

Hydrocodone works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, effectively blocking pain signals and inducing feelings of euphoria. It also stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in the brain’s reward system. Over time, repeated use of hydrocodone leads to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. This cycle significantly increases the risk of addiction and dependency.

Hydrocodone is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) due to its high potential for abuse. Misuse often leads individuals to seek more potent and affordable alternatives, such as heroin or fentanyl, increasing the risk of overdose and other complications.

Signs of Hydrocodone Addiction

Recognizing the signs of hydrocodone addiction is crucial for early intervention. Addiction often manifests through physical, behavioral, and psychological symptoms.

Behavioral Signs

Compulsive use despite negative consequences
Doctor shopping or forging prescriptions
Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
Social withdrawal and isolation
Lying about drug use

Physical Signs

Chronic drowsiness or lethargy
Pinpoint pupils
Digestive issues such as constipation
Skin rashes and itching
Withdrawal symptoms like nausea, headaches, and muscle aches

If you or a loved one exhibits these signs, seeking professional help is essential to break the cycle of addiction.

How Dangerous Is Hydrocodone?

Hydrocodone’s danger lies in its addictive properties and the severe health risks associated with misuse. Prolonged use leads to physical dependency, where the body requires the drug to function normally. Attempting to quit abruptly often results in painful withdrawal symptoms, including intense cravings, anxiety, and flu-like symptoms.

Overdoses are a significant risk, especially when hydrocodone is combined with alcohol or other substances. Symptoms of overdose include shallow breathing, clammy skin, blue lips or fingernails, confusion, and loss of consciousness. If you suspect an overdose, immediate medical attention is critical. Naloxone, an opioid antagonist, can reverse the effects of an overdose when administered promptly.

Hydrocodone Addiction Treatment

Treatment for hydrocodone addiction involves a combination of medical detoxification, therapy, and ongoing support. Serenity at Summit provides comprehensive programs tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Medical Detox

The first step in recovery is detoxification, which allows the body to safely eliminate hydrocodone. Under medical supervision, withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sweating, and anxiety can be managed with medications like buprenorphine or methadone. Detox typically lasts 5–7 days, and 24/7 monitoring ensures the process is safe and as comfortable as possible.

Residential Treatment

For individuals with severe addiction, residential treatment provides a structured environment for recovery. This level of care includes individual and group therapy, family counseling, and life skills training. Programs typically last 30–90 days, offering intensive support for lasting recovery.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient programs offer flexibility for those who cannot commit to full-time residential care. Options include:

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs): 20 or more hours of therapy per week
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs): Nine or more hours of therapy per week
Standard Outpatient Programs: Fewer than nine hours of therapy per week

Outpatient programs allow individuals to receive treatment while maintaining daily responsibilities.

Hydrocodone Abuse Statistics

In 2016, an estimated 6.9 million Americans misused hydrocodone products such as Vicodin and Norco.
Among the 63,600 drug overdose deaths in the U.S. in 2016, 42,249 involved opioids, including hydrocodone.
Hydrocodone misuse accounted for 29,391 exposures and 36 deaths in 2013.

Hydrocodone Addiction in New Jersey and Massachusetts

New Jersey

New Jersey faces a significant opioid crisis, with hydrocodone misuse contributing to the state’s high overdose rates. Serenity at Summit’s Union, NJ location offers specialized care, including:

24/7 medical supervision during detox
Dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders
Comprehensive aftercare planning to prevent relapse

Massachusetts

Massachusetts reports some of the highest opioid-related fatalities in the nation.

Serenity at Summit’s Haverhill, MA location provides holistic care, focusing on physical detox and psychological recovery, including:

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
Trauma-informed therapy to address the root causes of addiction
Family counseling to rebuild trust and support systems

Why Choose Serenity at Summit?

Serenity at Summit is committed to offering the highest quality care for individuals struggling with hydrocodone addiction.

Our facilities in New Jersey and Massachusetts provide a wide range of services, including medically supervised detox, residential treatment, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and dual diagnosis care for those with co-occurring mental health disorders.

We take pride in our individualized treatment plans, tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. Whether you are seeking alcohol treatment, opioids (like hydrocodone, cocaine, or other substances, Serenity at Summit offers the comprehensive care and support you need to achieve lasting recovery.

I am ready to be sober.

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