Lortab Addiction | Lortab In Ohio

The acetaminophen and hydrocodone combination (brand name Lortab or Vicodin) is used as a prescription drug to help relieve severe pain.

Hydrocodone is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and addiction.

Lortab is a prescription opioid used as a pain reliever in those suffering from moderate to severe pain. In addition to this, Lortab may be used for pain management after surgical procedures.

Lortab Abuse

Despite the benefits of this painkiller, opioid abuse can occur due to the euphoric effects of the drug. Lortab is a narcotic that is sometimes sold illegally, going by hydrocodone/acetaminophen prescription and street names such as norco, tabs, or vikes.

Lortab works to relieve pain relief by depressing the central nervous system (CNS), with hydrocodone binding to opioid receptors in the brain and creating profound sedation.

Lortab abuse occurs when you use more of the medication than prescribed or without a prescription, use it in ways like snorting or injecting, or mix it with other drugs.

Snorting Or Injecting Lortab

Available in pill form, Lortab use may create a number of side effects when abused. Those who crush the pill and snort the substance may experience the effects of the drug more quickly.

If a person crushes a pill and combines Lortab with powder to inject the drug into a vein, euphoric sensations may take place immediately. 

Polydrug Abuse

If a person has Lortab addiction, they may turn to other drugs to achieve a more intense “high.” When certain medications or illegal drugs are combined with Lortab, serious reactions can occur.

CNS depressants may create more respiratory difficulties, resulting in severe breathing problems. Those who engage in Lortab abuse may have an increased risk of overdose.

Side Effects Of Lortab

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Lortab may produce a number of side effects such as:

• constipation
• vomiting
• insomnia
• lightheadedness
• blurred vision
• sedation
• drowsiness

Liver Problems

Acetaminophen in Lortab, when taken in large quantities, can cause liver damage. Abusing the drug over an extended period of time may lead to liver failure or disease.

Signs Of Lortab Addiction

Those who have Lortab addiction may show various signs of opioid addiction, including:

• frequent drug cravings
• the inability to stop use despite worrying consequences
• visiting multiple doctors for a prescription (doctor shopping)
• prioritizing drug use over responsibilities at work or school
• changes in sleep and exercise habits
• relationship and financial problems

Additional signs of Lortab addiction include an overdose risk and withdrawal symptoms when you stop use.

Lortab Withdrawal Symptoms

A person who has developed a physical dependence to Lortab may have cravings for the drug and suffer from a number of withdrawal symptoms when the drug is discontinued.

Some Lortab withdrawal symptoms may consist of:

• fluctuations in heart rate
• excessive yawning
• fever
• tremors
• irritability or mood swings

Lortab Overdose

If a person has a hydrocodone overdose, this may be an extreme warning sign that a person has developed a drug addiction. Signs of a life-threatening Lortab overdose may include:

• respiratory depression
• fluctuations in heart rate
• clammy skin
• circulatory collapse
• hypotension
• bradycardia
• nausea
• vomiting

If an opioid overdose occurs, contact 911 immediately. Naloxone, brand name Narcan, may be used by a doctor at the emergency department. 

Lortab Addiction Treatment

If you, a family member, or a loved one struggles with drug use, substance abuse treatment programs offer medical detox and other evidence-based treatment options.

Detox

Detoxification can be one of the first steps in the treatment process. During detox, unwanted toxins are expelled from your body and you’re monitored closely by medical professionals as you experience withdrawal symptoms.

Other Treatment Options

At a treatment center, behavioral health options are offered in both inpatient and outpatient treatment settings.

Substance use disorder treatment options in both settings can include behavioral therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and aftercare services.

For information on our inpatient treatment services, please contact Ohio Recovery Center today.

FAQs

How Long Does Lortab Stay In Your System?

Lortab stays in your system for about 20 hours after the last dose. Opioid drug tests can detect Lortab for between 1 to 3 days after the last dose.

Learn more about How Long Lortab Stays In Your System

What’s A Standard Dose Of Lortab?

A standard dose of Lortab is one tablespoon of Lortab solution every 4 to 6 hours. The maximum daily dose of Lortab is likely not greater than 6 doses per day.

Learn more about Lortab Dosage