Hydrocodone is an analgesic pain reliever prescribed by doctors for mild to moderate pain. It is one of the most widely prescribed pain relieving drugs in the US. When hydrocodone is taken correctly it is very effective, but it may be habit forming. Though addiction is not as likely following prescribed use, taking more than the prescribed amount or using hydrocodone just to get high can be both dangerous and deadly. Often, a tolerance can be built up to the drug requiring more and more to achieve the same effect which ultimately leads to physical dependence and continued misuse.

There are many indicators that the use of hydrocodone has gone from its intended use to a full blown addiction. If you are worried that a loved one might be addicted to hydrocodone there are some signs that are a complete give away.

Signs of Hydrocodone Addiction

1. Droopy Eyelids

You might be sitting across from your loved one and notice that their eye lids are droopy or heavy. They may try to lift the eyelids and only accomplish lifting one side, while the other remains droopy. The big excuse for this one is of course, “I’m just tired”.

2. Slurred Speech

It may sound like the person under the influence has been drinking alcohol. Speech may be slowed and slurred and they might confuse words or only speak in partial sentences. It may cause the person to be so incoherent that you are unable to understand what they are trying to say.

3. Excessive Sleeping

One moment you are trying to have a conversation with your loved one and the next they are asleep in the very spot where they sit. It might be at the kitchen table or even while out to dinner at a restaurant. Or you might notice that they are sleeping for extended periods of time or at unusual times when they are not ordinarily sleeping.

4. Talking about Hydrocodone Constantly

If you find that your loved one is always talking about taking hydrocodone or trying to obtain the drug or always worried if they have enough of the medication, this can be a really big indicator that your loved has an addiction to hydrocodone and might need help for their problem. Often in the midst of an addiction the user just can’t stop thinking and talking about the drug.

5. Seeing Many Doctors for the Same Injury

If you notice that your loved one is going to multiple doctors for the same problem and obtaining medication from more than one doctor for the same injury or illness this is an absolute dead give away that your loved one is addicted to hydrocodone.

Although addiction is very serious and getting your loved one off the drug is urgent, according to NIDA, “Patients addicted to barbiturates and benzodiazepines should not attempt to stop taking them on their own”. Professional treatment is recommended when stopping any use of an opiate as the withdrawal symptoms can be very dangerous.

Consult your family doctor for more resources on how to find help for yourself or someone you love or use the SAMHSA Treatment Locator or call 800-934-1582(Who Answers?) .