What is Lortab used for?

What is Lortab?

Lortrab is an opioid analgesic medication which also serves a cough suppressant. It contains the medicines hydrocodone bitartrate (made from codeine) and acetaminophen and is available in tablet, liquid solution or syrup. Lortab works by binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system and is prescribed by doctors in tablet doses of 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 mg.

What is Lortab Used For?

Lortab is primarily used as a pain reliever or to treat coughs. Hydrocodone, the main ingredient in Lortab, relieves pain by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. At the same time, hydrocodone can also decrease activity in the part of the brain that causes you to cough. This is why Lortab is mainly used as a:

1. cough suppressant
2. to treat moderate to severe pain

Non medical uses of Lortab

Like other opioids, Lortab may be taken for non medical use and is often taken in combination with other psychoactive substances. Lortab syrup is known to be a very easy-to-use recreational drug for its pleasant taste, its strong effects and extended duration of action. People may take Lortab in order to:

* calm down
* generate feelings of euphoria
* intensify drowsiness
* feel normal
* numb feelings or emotions

Can I get addicted to Lortab?

Yes, Lortab can be addictive. Physical dependence and tolerance (increasing need for higher doses of a drug to achieve the same effect) are characteristic of Lortab use. However, physical dependence can be weaned during a period of withdrawal and does not necessarily indicate addiction. Instead, addiction is characterized by loss of control over drug use, compulsive use, continued use despite harm, and cravings within weeks to months of use. Nonetheless, Lortab is an opioid, so the potential for addiction is high when Lortab is used by people for non medical reasons.

Think you’ve got a problem?  Send a question on the comment form, or learn how to get help for prescription drugs.  I answer all questions in a video (YouTube AddictionBlog channel), or respond to your comments below!

About the author

Lee Weber

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.