Uses for Taking Lortab Drugs
Lortab is a medication used to treat pain management. It is commonly prescribed by a doctor or physician to reduce and treat symptoms of pain. It is used for patients who have recently had surgery, a dental procedure or suffered injury. It is usually prescribed for short-term use for pain that ranges from moderate to severe. Along with pain management, it can also be used for a persistent cough.
“Hydrocodone is in a class of medications called opiate (narcotic) analgesics and in a class of medications called antitussives. Hydrocodone relieves pain by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. Hydrocodone relieves cough by decreasing activity in the part of the brain that causes coughing.” (Medline Plus, 2019)
If you or a loved one are experiencing moderate to severe pain, the first step is to contact your doctor to determine the best option to treat your pain.
How Does Lortab Work?
Lortab works by increasing the amount of dopamine in the body, by changing the way the brain and central nervous system responds to pain. It is used like other opioid-based medications by binding to the receptors in the nervous system and the brain. This is how dopamine and neurotransmitters are released and pain is lessened, also causing a euphoric feeling. Because of these euphoric effects, Lortab is considered a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States and is not legal to use without a prescription.
What is Lortab 10Mg – 325Mg?
Lortab is a combination drug containing the opiate, hydrocodone (narcotic), also containing acetaminophen for pain relief. It is a tablet and is available for oral use.
The two ingredients that make up Lortab are hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Hydrocodone is an opioid, and is used in situations for pain relief, but is much stronger than other medications used for pain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a more common drug that is used to treat mild pain and fevers in patients. The combination of the two substances creates a very potent, strong, and potentially addictive drug if not taken properly.
How is Lortab Made?
Lortab is made with a combination of two drugs, hydrocodone, and acetaminophen. The combination of the two makes a pain relief that is strong enough to treat moderate to severe pain in patients.
“Hydrocodone combination products come as a tablet, a capsule, a syrup, a solution (clear liquid), an extended-release (long-acting) capsule, and an extended-release (long-acting) suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. The tablet, capsule, syrup, and solution are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. The extended-release capsule and the extended-release suspension are usually taken every 12 hours as needed.” (Medline Plus, 2019)
There are many mods to take Lortab, including a capsule, solution liquid, or syrup. It is important to take it as directed by a healthcare professional.
Side Effects of the Medicine Combination of Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen
- Unclear thinking
- Dry mouth
- Ringing in your ears
- Blurred vision
- Mood changes
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Constipation
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Nausea
Risks in Taking Lortab
Along with any other drug, there are risks and warnings involved when taking any medication, even when it is prescribed by a healthcare professional. The most common problems that can arise when taking an opioid drug includes dependence and overdose. Lortab contains acetaminophen, and if this drug is taken in large doses it can cause problems with your liver.
If Lortab is taken in combination with other drugs or alcohol the interactions can cause serious side effects, that are even life-threatening. Before you take drug products such as Lortab, it’s important to understand the risks and only take it as prescribed by your doctor.
Getting Prescribed Lortab Medication by a Doctor for Pain
Your doctor, physician or healthcare provider will prescribe Lortab to you if you are having pain that cannot be managed with over the counter medicine. Doctors will prescribe opioids (hydrocodone) with combination drugs to treat pain that is moderate and severe, in some cases.
They are often prescribed by a provider following a surgery for pain management, injury, or other health conditions. It can also be prescribed to treat a cough that will not go away. Although, these medications can be extremely helpful in treating pain, they can also be dangerous because of the side effects, including overdose and abuse. It’s important to speak with your doctor about your concerns and risks before taking this medication.
How to Tell if You are Addicted to Lortab
Lortab is not known to be a harmful or addictive drug, but this does not mean that it never happens. Studies show that only about 5 percent of people who are prescribed Lortab will abuse the drug and develop an addiction. The best way to avoid addiction, is to use the medication only as directed by your doctor to ensure you are not taking too much and becoming dependent on it.
It is made up of an opioid, hydrocodone, and opioids are known to be extremely dangerous and often addictive. Opioids affect the part in the brain that controls your breathing, and if too high of a dosage is taken, it can cause you to overdose.
“Opioids can be dangerous, and anyone can become addicted. Studies have shown that even just three days of opioid treatment can increase the likelihood of chronic opioid use. It only takes a little to lose a lot. Risks include misuse, abuse, opioid use disorder (addiction), and overdose.”
AToN Center is a drug and alcohol rehab center in California that specializes in treating opioid addictions. We offer comprehensive care to all our patients, with round the clock support from our highly educated and trained clinicians. If you are looking for help, please call our facility right away.
Lortab Overdose and Withdrawal
If Lortab is not taken as directed, and taken in higher doses than prescribed, overdose can occur. This can be life-threatening to you if it is not treated properly.
If you take Lortab for a long period of time, and suddenly quit taking it, your body can go into a withdrawals. This phase often results in uncomfortable symptoms, making it difficult to stop using.
Symptoms of Withdrawal
- Anxiety
- Tearing of the eyes
- Sweating
- Stomach problems
- Shaking and tremors
- Chills
- Runny nose
- Rapid heartbeat
- Congestion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle aches
- Frequent yawning
- Irritability
- Insomnia and restlessness
- Heightened blood pressure
- Increased sensitivity to pain
Although, the symptoms of Lortab withdrawal are uncomfortable, they usually subside within 72 hours of discontinuing use.
Addiction Treatment at AToN Center in California
Addiction can be one of the hardest challenges to overcome, and AToN Center is here to help you every step of the way. Our staff care about the successful outcome of your recovery, which is why we customize your treatment plan to meet each of our client’s needs.
Our program caters to anyone and everyone who is ready to get treatment for addiction. Our certified clinicians are available 24-7, to ensure you are safe and comfortable during both detox and your treatment, for however long your stay is.
Drug Treatment Methods at AToN Center
At AToN Center we believe there is no “cookie cutter” method that will treat every single patient in the same way. We pay attention to the needs of each family, getting to know them to determine the best treatment plan for their specific needs.
Holistic Care
Because we often work with clients without a typical 12-step model, we offer many alternative modes of therapy for addiction. Some of the cutting-edge, non-12 step offerings we have include acupuncture, meditation, EMDR, yoga, family therapy, SMART recovery tools, assertiveness training, physical fitness, and relapse prevention.
Non 12-Step Program
Many clients choose a Non 12-step model for their mode of treatment for addiction. AToN Center was founded on the principles of a Non 12-step model of treatment for addiction. Therefore, we were designed as an evidence-based best practice model for treatment of addiction free from the barriers many people experience with 12-Step only treatment programs.
12-Step Program
Although, many clients choose other methods for treatment, we do offer a traditional, 12-step program for our clients who choose to go this route. Although, 12-step program meetings are offered at our center, they are not required to attend by our clients. Individuals do not routinely work the 12 Steps in our program but may choose to do so during their individual therapy with experienced counselors.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, tell one of the caring support coordinators at AToN Center and get the help you need to get clean and remain free from drugs or alcohol.
References
MedlinePlus.gov (2019, Oct 15th). Hydrocodone Combination Products.
Originally posted on October 15, 2020 @ 4:30 am
