When pain becomes too strong to handle, healthcare experts sometimes give a medicine called Hydrocodone. It is one of the most well-known and prescribed pain relievers. If you are taking Hydrocodone for the first time, you may have many questions. What should you expect? How should you take it? Are there any important things to be careful about?
This guide will walk you through what you need to know before your first dose. We won’t go too deep too soon; just the basics to help you feel more prepared. Before taking this medicine, you must understand how it works and what to watch for. Keep reading to learn the most important things to know before starting Hydrocodone.
What is Hydrocodone?
Hydrocodone is a potent painkiller. It is administered by healthcare professionals to individuals who experience very severe pain, such as patients after a major surgery or injury. It influences how your brain feels pain and you experience less pain. Sometimes, Hydrocodone is combined with another drug named acetaminophen.
Acetaminophen on the other hand, may be useful as a pain killer and fever reducer. The combination of these two medicines can be more effective in alleviating pain. However, you should be extremely careful and listen to your healthcare expert.
Why Do People Take Hydrocodone?
As mentioned, Hydrocodone helps to manage severe pain. It cannot be used in cases of minor pains, such as headaches or stomachaches. Healthcare experts only recommend this drug when other pills like paracetamol and ibuprofen do not work. Here are some reasons that show you why people take Hydrocodone-
- After surgery- To help with severe pain after an operation.
- Injury pain- Like a broken bone or a bad fall.
- Tooth pain- Sometimes after a big dental procedure.
- Long-term pain– For people with pain that lasts a long time, like back pain.
- Cancer pain- To make the pain from cancer easier to handle.
Physicians may also choose extended-release Hydrocodone if the pain is strong and lasts all day. This type works slowly and gives relief over a long time.
How Should You Take Hydrocodone?
Proper use of Hydrocodone is essential. You should never miss what your healthcare professional advises you. Do not consume more or less than what is stated on the label. It is quite essential to know what you should avoid with Hydrocodone. It is very harmful when you use too much of it or when you use it with alcoholic beverages.
More Instructions Before Taking Hydrocodone
To ensure you take it regularly, you must follow the instructions of the healthcare specialist and take it at the same time every day, setting a reminder or using a timer. Please do not give your medicine to other people even when they tell you that they are in pain. Hydrocodone is very powerful and can be dangerous to other people. Always use a lot of water to take the pill.
The tablet cannot be chewed or crushed as it may cause the drug to act too quickly, and it might be toxic to your body. It is also a good idea to eat a little food prior to taking this drug. This will save your stomach and perhaps avoid that feeling of sickness or stomachache. If you plan to buy Hydrocodone online, you must follow these usage details.
How Fast Does Hydrocodone Work?
The effects of Hydrocodone typically take an average of 30 to 60 minutes to begin. It also minimizes the feeling of pain by sending signals to the brain to prevent the sensation of pain. The majority of individuals feel improved after one hour. The overall duration may take 4-6 hours. Other types of pills, like slow-release pills, produce fewer effects and last longer in the body.
This medication can make you feel tired, and this is why, you should take proper rest to get the benefits. Physicians can prescribe Hydrocodone to elderly patients with severe pain, but they monitor them carefully to ensure their safety. The body of each person is unique and, therefore, the speed of the drug works can vary. Always follow the advice of your healthcare expert.
What Are the Side Effects?
Like all medicines, Hydrocodone can cause side effects. Some side effects are common and not too serious. Others can be stronger and may be dangerous. You must know what to look out for when taking this medicine.
Common Side Effects:
- Sleepiness
- Dizziness
- Upset stomach
- Constipation (trouble going to the bathroom)
- Dry mouth
Serious Severe Side Effects:
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Feeling confused
- Slow heartbeat
- Feeling very weak
If you experience any severe side effects from Hydrocodone, report them to your healthcare expert or visit a hospital immediately. To get the proper instructions on side effects, you must choose a reliable pharmacy where you can get proper guidance.
Can You Get Addicted to Hydrocodone?
Yes, it is possible to be addicted to this drug if you are abusing it or using it in the wrong way. The medication Hydrocodone is a powerful painkiller and may cause you to feel extremely joyful and relaxed. Some people begin to enjoy the feeling and like to take even more when they do not really need it. This is known as the risk of addiction. Long-term or unsupervised use of Hydrocodone can be dangerous.
This is the reason why the experts in healthcare only administer it when it is really necessary. Always pay attention to the instructions of your healthcare expert. Do not consume more than is prescribed and never share it with any other person. Stay safe and use it wisely.
Things to Avoid While Taking Hydrocodone
Don’t drive or use machines- You should avoid driving or using heavy equipment as it can be the reason for severe injuries or accidents.
Avoid drinking alcohol- Do not consume liquor while using Hydrocodone as this combination (medicine+alcohol) can make you very tired. It may even lead to dangerous health issues or overdose.
Ask your healthcare expert before taking any other medicine- Taking other drugs with Hydrocodone can cause harmful side effects or other issues. This is why you should ask your healthcare expert before using any other drug with this.
Don’t stop taking Hydrocodone suddenly- If you need to stop, your healthcare expert will help slowly lower your dose to avoid feeling sick or uncomfortable.
What Happens If You Miss a Dose?
In case you forget about taking the dose of this drug, you must use it as soon as possible. However, skipping the dose may be possible at times when it is about time to take the second dose. You should not overdose or take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. Taking excess of it can be dangerous to the body and it may lead to serious health complications.
You should always wait and take the next dose at the right time. In case you are not always sure of what to do you can call your pharmacist. They may assist you in staying safe and taking your drug properly.
Conclusion
Taking Hydrocodone for the first time can be a bit scary, but with the proper guidance, you can be safe and feel better. This is a potent medication and must be taken only when necessary. If you plan to buy Hydrocodone online, ensure to take it from a reliable pharmacy with proper guidance. You must follow the above-mentioned instructions to get the best possible outcomes from this medication. Ask questions if you are unsure about the use of this medication. By being careful and smart, you can manage your pain well and stay safe while using Hydrocodone.