Hydrocodone

What is Hydrocodone?

• Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid pain medicine.

• It is made from codeine or thebaine (alkaloids of the opium poppy).

• Usually found in combination drugs (e.g., with acetaminophen as Vicodin, Norco, Lortab).

• Classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the U.S. because of its high addiction potential.

Medical Uses (Benefits)

Doctors prescribe hydrocodone mainly for:

• Moderate to severe pain (after surgery, injury, or chronic pain conditions).

• Cough suppression (in some older formulations, combined with cough syrups).

How It Works

• Hydrocodone binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord.

• This blocks pain signals and produces a feeling of relief and sometimes euphoria.

Benefits (When Used Correctly)

• Provides effective pain relief when other medicines don’t work.

• Improves quality of life for patients with short-term severe pain.

• Reduces coughing in certain medical cases.

Harms & Risks

• Addiction and Dependence – very high risk if used long-term.

• Side effects: drowsiness, constipation, nausea, dizziness.

• Respiratory depression – slowed or stopped breathing at high doses.

• Overdose risk – especially if combined with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other opioids.

• Combination products with acetaminophen can also cause liver damage if misused.

Abuse Concerns

• Hydrocodone has been one of the most prescribed and most abused opioids in the U.S.

• Often misused for its euphoric effects, leading to addiction and overdose.

• Played a major role in the U.S. opioid crisis.

Conclusion

• Hydrocodone is a powerful and effective medicine for pain relief, but it carries serious risks of misuse and overdose.

• Because of its danger, it is only prescribed under strict medical supervision.