A coping mechanism is something that someone uses during times of hardship to relieve feelings of stress, anger, tension, pain, and trauma. These mechanisms can happen unconsciously to act as a crutch when someone is most in need of support. Unless directly told to do so, most people utilize their coping mechanisms without even thinking about it. Someone may cope by partaking in an activity or meditating. Unfortunately, sometimes the burdens of everyday life can be far more than any person can handle, leading to the development of unhealthy coping mechanisms.
In times like this, it is not uncommon for people to turn to drugs and alcohol. Unfortunately, using substances as a coping mechanism greatly increases the risk of developing a substance use disorder. Opioids, specifical hydrocodone, are an excellent example of how substance-based coping mechanisms can lead to addiction. The best way to prevent addiction is to understand its effects and symptoms and know common hydrocodone street names. To learn more about Texas Recovery Center and our opioid addiction treatment options, call us at 844.230.5931.
What Is Hydrocodone?
Hydrocodone is a legally prescribed opioid used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It was first developed in the early 1920s. Upon testing, researchers quickly found that the drug was remarkably efficient at managing pain, suppressing coughs, and producing feelings of euphoria. Its addictive potential was known from its inception. However, data would not be released on hydrocode addiction until 1961. Hydrocodone is most often prescribed following major surgery or bodily injury. Because hydrocodone is so effective at pain relief, it is the most commonly prescribed opioid medication. However, it also happens to be very addictive. Tolerance to the drug can develop quickly, so patients need higher doses to relieve their pain. As the dosage increases, patients become more reliant on the medication to produce chemicals found in the drug.
Signs of Addiction and Common Nicknames for Lean and Hydrocodone
As previously stated, hydrocodone is a highly addictive narcotic. Studies have shown that opioid dependency can begin within the first week of use. The most common symptom of hydrocode addiction is drowsiness and small, almost pinpoint-like pupils. Users will often experience intense mood swings between periods of high use due to withdrawal. Other symptoms of hydrocodone addiction are:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Sweating
- Increased heart rate
- Mood fluctuations
- Compulsive behavior
- Inability to concentrate
- Inability to limit or stop usage
- Issues at home, work, or school
- Social isolation
While much hydrocodone addiction can be attributed to its misuse as a painkiller, new ways of socially taking the drug have emerged in the form of lean. Lean is a mixed soft drink that contains some form of opioid or cough syrup, most typically hydrocodone and codeine. Nicknames for lean and other common hydrocodone street names are syrup, purple jelly, Memphis mud, Captain Cody, oxycat, percs, doors and fours, and M.
Hydrocodone as a Gateway Drug
Withdrawal can occur six to 12 hours following the last dose and can remain anywhere from a week to a month. Common symptoms of withdrawal are muscle aches, nausea, and insomnia. Because of its addictive potential and the severity of symptoms that come from withdrawal, many getting off of hydrocodone will turn to other drugs to relieve the pain. Hydrocodone shares many of the same chemical and physical properties as heroin, fentanyl, and morphine, which are highly addictive in their own right. This tragically results in many people developing other forms of addiction as they attempt to prevent withdrawal symptoms from worsening.
Find Help for Hydrocodone Addiction at Texas Recovery Center
Addiction is always a struggle, but recovery is possible. When concerns surrounding hydrocodone addiction arise, it is crucial that the signs and symptoms of chronic abuse are identified before users’ addiction can progress any further. At Texas Recovery Center, we understand this struggle and want nothing more than to provide comfort for our patients through excellent care. For more information on hydrocodone addiction or to schedule an appointment today, call 844.230.5931.
