What Is Hydrocodone? Potency & Addiction vs. Other Drugs

What is Hydrocodone?

Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid, often referred to as a narcotic, used primarily for pain relief. Classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the DEA, it indicates a high potential for abuse but with accepted medical use. Other drugs in this category include Oxycodone, Fentanyl, and methadone. Hydrocodone comes in various dosages and forms, ranging from oral tablets and capsules to solutions and syrups. Notable brand names include Vicodin (a combination of Hydrocodone and acetaminophen), Lortab, and Norco.

What Does Hydrocodone Look Like?

The appearance of hydrocodone tablets or capsules can vary in terms of color, shape, and markings. They are typically imprinted with a specific code or logo to help identify the medication. The exact appearance of Hydrocodone can change over time due to different manufacturers and formulations.

 

What does hydrocodone feel like?

When taken as directed by a healthcare professional, hydrocodone can significantly reduce pain, making it easier for patients to go about their daily activities more comfortably. Alongside its pain-relieving effects, hydrocodone can also cause a sensation often described as a hydrocodone high. This feeling is a state of euphoria or intense well-being, resulting from how the drug interacts with the brain’s pleasure centers. While not everyone experiences this high, it’s a noteworthy aspect for some users. It’s important to remember, though, that hydrocodone can have other side effects like drowsiness, relaxation, and sometimes, less pleasantly, nausea, dizziness, and constipation. These effects can vary from person to person, and they depend on various factors including the dose and the individual’s own body chemistry.

It’s essential to talk about the hydrocodone high in the context of the opioid problem in the United States. This issue is quite serious; the euphoric feeling that hydrocodone can provide may lead to misuse and addiction for some individuals. This risk is part of the reason why there’s a national concern about opioids like hydrocodone. As the body gets used to the medication, there might be a need for higher doses to feel the same effects, which can spiral into addiction and, in some cases, overdose. It’s a delicate balance to maintain – using hydrocodone responsibly for pain relief while being aware of its potential for addiction.

 

How Does Hydrocodone Make You Feel?

Hydrocodone works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, altering the perception of and emotional response to pain. This action can result in feelings of euphoria or a ‘high’, making it effective for pain relief but also contributing to its abuse potential. Common side effects include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Lightheadedness
• Anxiety or mood changes

Does Hydrocodone Make You Sleepy?

Hydrocodone has sedative effects, which can lead to drowsiness and lethargy. It can also cause respiratory depression, slowing down breathing, which is particularly risky when taken in high doses or combined with other sedatives. This slowing effect can extend to other bodily functions as well.

Is Hydrocodone Addictive?

Hydrocodone is highly addictive due to its euphoric effects and the way it interacts with the brain’s reward system. It can be abused in various forms, including snorting or crushing pills, which increases its addiction potential. The time it takes to develop an addiction can vary, but regular use, even as prescribed, can lead to dependency within weeks. Signs of addiction include:

• Increased tolerance to the drug’s effects
• Withdrawal symptoms when not using
• Uncontrolled use despite harmful consequences
• Obsession with obtaining and using the drug
• Neglecting responsibilities and relationships

How Long Does Hydrocodone Take to Work?

Hydrocodone typically starts to work within about 20 to 30 minutes after ingestion, with its peak effects occurring around the one-hour mark. The duration of its effects can last anywhere from four to six hours, depending on the dosage and individual metabolism.

How Much Hydrocodone Is Too Much?

Exceeding prescribed doses of Hydrocodone increases the risk of addiction, overdose, and other dangerous side effects. Hydrocodone overdose symptoms include:

• Severe respiratory depression
• Extreme drowsiness leading to coma
• Muscle weakness
• Cold and clammy skin
• Slow heart rate
• Low blood pressure
• Potential death due to respiratory failure

Hydrocodone Withdrawal Symptoms & Timeline

Hydrocodone withdrawal occurs when someone who has been taking the drug in large doses or over an extended period suddenly stops or significantly reduces their use. This leads to a range of withdrawal symptoms, which happen because the body has become used to the presence of the drug. Initially, these symptoms might be mild, but they often get more intense as time goes on. This worsening of symptoms is the body’s way of adjusting to the absence of Hydrocodone, a clear sign of its dependence on the medication.

Hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms may include:

• • fatigue
  • irritability
  • muscle aches
  • nausea
  • anxiety
  • depression
  • mood swings
  • intense drug craving
  • trouble sleeping
  • yawning
  • runny nose
  • sweating
  • dilated pupils
  • diarrhea
  • vomiting
  • abdominal cramps
  • goosebumps
  • intense drug cravings
  • restlessness
  • tremors
  • difficulty concentrating

 

Drug	Addiction Potential
Hydrocodone	Significant potential for addiction due to its opioid nature and effectiveness in pain relief.
Tramadol	Lower potential for addiction than Hydrocodone. Weaker opioid effect and synthetic nature contribute to this.
Norco	Similar to Hydrocodone as it contains Hydrocodone as an active ingredient. Acetaminophen addition does not significantly alter addiction risk.
Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)	Higher potential for addiction than Hydrocodone. More potent and effective in pain relief, leading to a greater risk of dependency.
Morphine	Higher potential for addiction compared to Hydrocodone. One of the most potent opioids with a significant risk of dependency.

Hydrocodone vs Tramadol: What Is The Difference?

Hydrocodone, a semi-synthetic opioid, contains elements derived from the opium poppy, placing it in the category of stronger opioids, much like morphine. It is frequently used for managing severe pain, especially in cases where less potent opioids such as Tramadol or Codeine have proven ineffective.

Tramadol is a fully synthetic opioid developed specifically for the treatment of moderate pain. Its completely synthetic makeup makes it less potent than many other opioids, making it a preferred choice for less severe pain management.

Both Hydrocodone and Tramadol function by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, key areas in the body’s pain management system. By attaching to these receptors, they block the transmission of pain signals to the brain, effectively reducing the sensation of pain. However, this mechanism of action also carries the risk of addiction and dependence, as it can lead to changes in brain chemistry over prolonged use.

Addiction Risks: Tramadol vs Hydrocodone

• Hydrocodone: Generally more addictive than Tramadol. Its higher potency and euphoric effects contribute to a greater risk of dependency, especially with long-term or high-dose use.
• Tramadol: Has a lower addiction potential but still poses a significant risk, particularly if misused.

 

Is Tramadol Stronger Than Hydrocodone?

In terms of potency, Hydrocodone is generally considered stronger than Tramadol. Hydrocodone is preferred for more severe pain, while Tramadol is used for moderate pain relief. The difference in their strength also influences their potential for abuse and addiction, with Hydrocodone posing a higher risk.

 

Can You Take Tramadol And Hydrocodone Together?

The critical question arises: is it safe to take Tramadol and Hydrocodone together? The answer is no. Mixing Tramadol and Hydrocodone can lead to severe side effects like seizures, respiratory depression, coma, and even death.

The risk of overdose escalates significantly, with respiratory depression being the most dangerous outcome. It can cause unconsciousness, brain damage, or death.

Despite these risks, some individuals may still mix these drugs, chasing the heightened euphoria they produce when taken together. This combination, especially with alcohol, can intensify sedative effects, further increasing the risk of overdose.

Comparison Table

Aspect	Hydrocodone	Tramadol
Pain Relief Effectiveness	✔️	✔️
Potential for Addiction	High	Moderate
Potential for Dependency	High	Moderate
Withdrawal Duration	Up to a week or more	Several days to a few weeks
Common Side Effects	Nausea, Dizziness, Constipation	Nausea, Dizziness, Headache
Risk of Respiratory Depression	High	Lower
Suitability for Chronic Pain	✔️	✔️
Onset of Action	Rapid	Moderate
Duration of Effect	Moderate	Long-lasting
Interaction with Other Medications	High	Moderate

Is Norco Hydrocodone?

Hydrocodone vs. Norco: Potency

• Hydrocodone: A semi-synthetic opioid, derived in part from codeine. It is generally considered potent and effective for moderate to severe pain.
• Norco: Contains Hydrocodone but in a lower dosage, combined with acetaminophen. The presence of acetaminophen does not significantly alter the potency of the Hydrocodone component.

Hydrocodone vs. Norco: Use and Effectiveness

• Hydrocodone: Typically prescribed for moderate to severe pain, and its effectiveness can be increased when combined with other pain relievers like acetaminophen, as seen in Norco.
• Norco: Used primarily for moderate pain. The combination of Hydrocodone with acetaminophen makes it effective for pain management while also offering the added benefit of reducing fever.

Hydrocodone vs. Norco: Side Effects and Risks

• Hydrocodone: Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, and constipation, alongside a significant risk of addiction and respiratory depression.
• Norco: Shares similar side effects due to the Hydrocodone component. However, the addition of acetaminophen brings an additional risk of liver damage, especially at higher doses or with prolonged use.

Hydrocodone vs. Norco: Addiction Risk

• Hydrocodone: Has a substantial potential for addiction and dependency, a risk inherent in most opioids.
• Norco: While the addiction risk is similar due to the Hydrocodone content, the risk of liver damage from acetaminophen may limit its abuse, particularly at higher doses.

 

Is hydrocodone Morphine?

Hydrocodone vs Morphine: Potency

• Hydrocodone: A semi-synthetic opioid derived partially from codeine, a naturally occurring opiate. It’s generally considered less potent than Morphine.
• Morphine: A natural opiate, directly extracted from the opium poppy. It is one of the oldest and most potent opioids, often used as a benchmark to measure the potency of other opioids, including Hydrocodone.

Hydrocodone vs Morphine: Use and Effectiveness

• Hydrocodone: Commonly prescribed for moderate pain, often in combination with non-opioid pain relievers like acetaminophen. It can also be effective in treating severe pain but might require higher doses.
• Morphine: Used primarily for severe and acute pain, including post-surgical pain and pain due to terminal illnesses. Its potency makes it a preferred option in situations where stronger pain relief is required.

Hydrocodone vs Morphine: Side Effects and Risks

• Hydrocodone: Typical side effects include nausea, dizziness, and constipation, with a risk of addiction and respiratory depression.
• Morphine: Shares similar side effects with Hydrocodone but may also cause more pronounced respiratory depression and hypotension, especially at higher doses.

Hydrocodone vs Morphine: Addiction Risk

• Hydrocodone: Has a significant potential for addiction and dependency, though generally less than Morphine due to its lower potency.
• Morphine: Known for its high potential for addiction and dependency, often requiring careful monitoring and controlled administration, particularly in long-term use.

 

Is Dilaudid Stronger Than Hydrocodone?

Hydrocodone vs. Dilaudid (Hydromorphone): Potency

• • Hydrocodone: A semi-synthetic opioid, derived from codeine. It’s considered less potent than Dilaudid.
  • Dilaudid: A semi-synthetic opioid as well, but it’s derived from morphine. Dilaudid is known for its high potency, significantly stronger than Hydrocodone

Hydrocodone vs. Dilaudid: Use and Effectiveness

• Hydrocodone: Frequently prescribed in combination with non-opioid pain relievers like acetaminophen. While effective for moderate pain, it may require higher doses for severe pain.
• Dilaudid: Primarily used for severe and acute pain, including post-surgical pain or pain due to serious medical conditions. Its high potency often makes it a choice for pain that is not effectively managed by less potent opioids like Hydrocodone.

Hydrocodone vs. Dilaudid (Hydromorphone): Side Effects and Risks

• • Hydrocodone: Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, and constipation. There’s also a risk of addiction and respiratory depression.
  • Dilaudid: Shares similar side effects with Hydrocodone but can cause more pronounced respiratory depression and sedation due to its higher potency.

Hydrocodone vs. Dilaudid: Addiction Risk

• Hydrocodone: Has a significant potential for addiction and dependency, although generally less than Dilaudid.
• Dilaudid: Known for its higher potential for addiction and dependency, requiring careful monitoring, particularly in long-term use.

 

How to Overcome Hydrocodone Addiction?

Detox Phase:
The journey to overcome hydrocodone addiction begins with detoxification, a crucial phase where the body eliminates the drug. This period can bring a spectrum of withdrawal symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort like nausea and anxiety to more severe reactions like seizures. Due to these varied and potentially serious symptoms, undergoing detox under medical supervision is essential. Healthcare professionals provide constant monitoring in this phase, offering medication to ease symptoms and cravings, all within a controlled environment that significantly lowers the risk of relapse.

Transition to Inpatient Rehab:
Following detox, the next step is inpatient rehab, which offers a structured, residential treatment experience. Tailored to each individual’s specific needs and the severity of their addiction, inpatient rehab provides a supportive and distraction-free setting. This phase includes therapy and counseling for psychological healing, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to manage cravings, educational sessions about addiction and recovery, holistic therapies for overall well-being, and peer support for communal recovery. Inpatient rehab not only focuses on breaking physical dependency but also prepares individuals for a successful, sober life post-treatment.

Can You Detox From Hydrocodone at Home?

Hydrocodone addiction often involves both physical dependence and psychological cravings, making the detoxification process particularly challenging. When someone tries to detox at home without medical supervision, they face a range of severe and potentially dangerous symptoms. These can include acute pain, extreme mood swings, intense cravings, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in some cases, life-threatening health issues such as seizures or severe dehydration.

Still Detox: We are here to help

For those tackling hydrocodone addiction, Still Detox stands as a guiding partner in your journey to recovery. Our tailored approach includes a medically supervised detox process, followed by personalized therapy within a nurturing and supportive environment. Emphasizing a holistic path to recovery, Still Detox is committed to providing the tools and support needed to overcome addiction and step forward into a healthier, drug-free future.

Get Help Now

FAQ

Does Hydrocodone Show Up on a Drug Test?

Yes, Hydrocodone can be detected on drug tests. It is usually detectable in urine for up to 4 days after use, in blood tests for about 24 hours, and in hair tests for up to 90 days.

 

How long does it take to detox from Hydrocodone?

Detoxing from Hydrocodone typically takes between a few days to a week, depending on factors like the level of use, individual metabolism, and overall health. However, some withdrawal symptoms can last for several weeks.

 

What are the Brand Names of Drugs Containing Hydrocodone?

Brand names for drugs containing Hydrocodone include Vicodin, Lortab, Norco, Zohydro ER, Hysingla ER, Lorcet, Lorcet Plus, and Lorcet HD.

 

Does Hydrocodone have Codeine in it?

No, Hydrocodone does not have Codeine in it. Both are opioids, but Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic derivative, while Codeine is a naturally occurring opiate.

 

Can Hydrocodone get you high?

Yes, Hydrocodone can produce a high. It is an opioid that acts on the central nervous system to produce euphoria, which is often sought after by those abusing the drug.

 

Does Hydrocodone make you itch?

Yes, itching is a common side effect of Hydrocodone. It occurs due to the release of histamines triggered by the drug’s effect on the central nervous system.

 

Is Norco Hydrocodone?

Yes, Norco is a brand name for a prescription medication that combines Hydrocodone and acetaminophen.

 

Is Hydrocodone Vicodin?

Hydrocodone is a key component in Vicodin. Vicodin is a combination of Hydrocodone and acetaminophen.

 

Is Vicodin stronger than Hydrocodone?

The strength comparison between Vicodin and Hydrocodone alone depends on the dosage and formulation. Vicodin combines Hydrocodone with acetaminophen, which can enhance pain relief.

 

Does Hydrocodone have Codeine in it?

No, Hydrocodone does not contain Codeine. They are distinct opioids, although both are used for pain relief and cough suppression.

 

Is Hydrocodone stronger than Codeine?

Yes, Hydrocodone is generally considered stronger and more potent than Codeine.

 

You Might Be Interested In:
Hydrocodone vs. Oxycodone: Understanding the Difference
Sources:
Pubmed
The Clinical Journal of Pain
DEA