Long term effects of Hydrocodone addiction (INFOGRAPHIC)

Hydrocodone can make you feel “high” which is the main reason why people tend to abuse it. With repetitive use, users experience alteration of their brain chemistry. What happens exactly? More here.

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Addiction = Physical and psychological dependence are seen in people using higher amounts of hydrocodone for a longer period of time.

Mechanism of Hydrocodone action

Hydrocodone interacts as an opiate agonist at specific receptor binding sites in the central nervous system. Specifically, it interacts with the delta-receptors, localized in the limbic regions; the mu-receptors, from the pain modulating regions; the kappa-receptors, localized in the deep layers of the cerebral cortex; and the sigma-receptors, which is thought to mediate the dysphoric and psychotomimetic effects of some opiate partial agonists.

Long term effects of Hydrocodone addiction (INFOGRAPHIC)

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 How addictive is Hydrocodone?

MODERATE/HIGH – Hydrocodone is highly addictive. Hydrocodone can be habit-forming, causing physical and psychological dependence. Its abuse liability is similar to morphine and less than oxycodone.

 Is damage caused by Hydrocodone permanent or reversible?

Permanent

  • acute liver failure
  • damage caused by cardiac arrest
  • damage caused by respiratory failure

Possible

  • bleeding gums
  • compromised mental function
  • depression
  • headaches
  • lowered immunity
  • pale or blue lips
  • severe allergic reactions

Reversible

  • constipation and loss of appetite
  • dry mouth
  • constipation
  • nausea and vomiting
  • irregular heart rate
  • blood clotting issues

How Hydrocodone addiction affects you?

Health

  • coma or death from overdose on hydrocodone
  • inability to fight viral and bacterial invaders
  • visceral organ damage or failure
  • weight loss

Work

  • impaired mental abilities
  • inattentiveness
  • problems at work
  • weakened physical performance

Self esteem

  • dissatisfaction with life
  • low self-esteem
  • negative body image
  • social withdrawal

Relationships

  • brokenness within the family unit
  • damaged relationships
  • isolation from family and friends
  • personality shifts
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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