Hydrocodone is a narcotic prescribed for moderate pain, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The most misused prescription drug in America, the first case of hydrocodone abuse was reported in 1961. Hydrocodone addiction can target anyone, but people under 65 years of age, having a history of drug abuse or currently on psychotropic medications, are more susceptible to addiction. Learning the symptoms of hydrocodone addiction will facilitate medical assistance to treat the addiction.
Misuse
The first sign of hydrocodone addiction involves misuse of the drug. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, when taken as directed, hydrocodone has a very low instance of addiction. Taking extra doses not prescribed on the drug label or doubling the pills can be a symptom of addiction.
Doctor Shopping
Addiction to the drug will cause misuse and running out of the prescription earlier than intended. A symptom of hydrocodone addiction involves the need to get more of the drug, sometimes by less than favorable means. If one doctor will no longer prescribe this drug, doctor shopping, or going to multiple physicians to seek the drug prescription, is a sign of addiction.
Craving Hydrocodone
Addiction to hydrocodone will cause an unnatural need, or craving, for the drug. This symptom can occur when the drug is no longer needed for pain relief and use of the drug continues. This need originates in the brain, where the psychological dependence becomes as strong as the physical dependence on the drug.
Withdrawal
Withdrawal is a physiological response to stopping a chemical on which the body's nervous system has become dependent. Stomach cramps, mood changes, sweating and blood pressure changes are all indicative of withdrawal. Taking and weaning off hydrocodone for brief periods of pain will not elicit a withdrawal syndrome. However, experiencing withdrawal or taking more hydrocodone due to fear of withdrawal is a sign of addiction.
Behavioral Changes
Friends and family will notice this symptom of hydrocodone addiction---odd behaviors and behavioral changes. Lying about drug use, hiding the pills and stealing are all signs of addiction, according to Helpguide.org. Commonly teens addicted to the substance will shirk duties and withdraw from previous social groups and hobbies.
