Hydrocodone Abuse
Hydrocodone is a powerful opioid medication used to treat pain. While it can be highly effective when used as prescribed, it also has a high potential for abuse and addiction. In this article, we’ll explore the statistics and demographics of abuse, where people typically acquire it illegally, and the potential side effects of misuse.
Statistics and Demographics
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), nearly 10 million Americans misused prescription opioids in 2019 alone. This represents a significant increase in opioid misuse over the past decade.
This misuse is not limited to any one demographic group. However, studies have shown that it is more prevalent among certain populations. For example, individuals aged 18-25 have a higher rate of opioid misuse than any other age group. Additionally, men are more likely than women to misuse opioids, and non-Hispanic whites are more likely than other racial/ethnic groups to misuse prescription opioids.
Sources
Most people who misuse it obtain it from a friend or family member who has a valid prescription. This is often referred to as “diversion,” and it can occur in a variety of ways. For example, a person may obtain this drug from a friend who has leftover medication after a surgery or injury. Alternatively, a person may steal it from a family member’s medicine cabinet.
In some cases, it is obtained illegally from a drug dealer or online pharmacy. These sources may sell counterfeit or adulterated pills that can be even more dangerous than legitimate medication.
Side Effects
Misuse can have a range of side effects, both short-term and long-term. Short-term side effects can include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Slowed or shallow breathing
- Impaired coordination and judgment
Long-term misuse can have even more serious consequences. These may include:
- Chronic pain
- Depression and anxiety
- Hormonal imbalances
- Respiratory problems
- Liver damage
- Increased risk of infectious diseases
Read about hydrocodone and ibuprofen here.
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