Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic pharmaceutical opioid. This means it is a chemical derived from the poppy plant that was processed to achieve more specific effects and greater purity. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the only way hydrocodone is sold is when it has been combined with other chemicals. MedicineNet.com reports that hydrocodone is sold mostly in pill form, but also comes in liquid form. Depending upon the mixture, the effects caused by hydrocodone differ, but there are certain effects that commonly present themselves across different hydrocodone products.
Intended Effects
A characteristic hydrocodone possesses as a result of its origin is the role it plays in the brain. Many opiates block or occupy various receptors in the brain when introduced to the body. Some of these receptors are responsible as to how pain is felt. When someone is under the effects of hydrocodone, a greater amount of stimulation is needed to make him feel pain, says MedicineNet.com. This makes hydrocodone products useful as analgesics or pain relievers. Another popular use for hydrocodone is as an antipyretic, or fever reducer. According to MedicineNet.com, what makes hydrocodone such an effective fever reducer is the role the drug plays in the centers of the brain that are responsible for regulating temperature. A third use for the chemical is in cough suppressants, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Side-Effects
Hydrocodone causes a variety of side effects depending on how it is used. According to the U.S. Library of Medicine, typical side effects of hydrocodone products include dilation of the pupils, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, drowsiness, difficulty urinating, itching, rash and various other conditions. Some of these side effects can be potentially dangerous, so a person taking hydrocodone products should talk to his doctor if he experiences any of these side effects.
Potentially Dangerous Effects
Most drugs, especially those as powerful as hydrocodone, are known to cause some type of rare but serious effects. These conditions can potentially be life threatening, so the U.S. National Library of Medicine advises anyone who sees someone taking hydrocodone products exhibit certain symptoms to contact local emergency services immediately. These symptoms include, swelling of any part of the face, tightening of the chest and difficulty breathing. Drugs.com includes hives, slowed heartbeat, fainting, anxiety and unusual behavior to this list.
Overdose
If a patient takes too much hydrocodone containing products within a small amount of time, he may overdose. This condition can be potentially dangerous and even life threatening. In the case of overdose, contacting local emergency services is crucial. Some ways to identify hydrocodone overdose include fainting, muscle cramps, seizures, narrowed or widened pupils, slowed or stopped heartbeat, excessive sweating, and cold or clammy skin, says the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
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