“Living a Sober Life after Norco Addiction: What Does it Take?”

For a drug that is so frequently referenced in pop culture, Norco is still surprisingly unpopular—at least, in comparison with other illicit drugs. And because of this unfamiliarity with the substance, we are going to explore the facts behind it.

What is Norco? What are the effects of abuse? And what can an addicted individual do to get back to living sober? We will try to answer these questions through this article.

Overview

Norco contains a combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone. The latter is an opioid pain reliever; a narcotic. Meanwhile, the former is also a pain-relieving medication, which boosts the effects of hydrocodone. Because of this combination, Norco is a very powerful drug. Abusing it can cause various unwanted health effects.

In fact, the US Food and Drug Administration decided to remove it from the market because of its high risk of abuse, and the dangerous side effects associated with recreational use.

Still, that doesn’t stop people from taking larger doses of the drug anyway. In fact, Norco overdose is linked to about 42,000 hospitalizations and around 400 deaths every year.

Actor Matthew Perry, from the TV sitcom Friends, admitted to getting hooked on the drug. He reportedly got to the point where he was ingesting 55 pills per day. This was before going through a 28-day treatment program.

Signs of Abuse

If you think someone you care about is abusing Norco, there are some signs that you can watch out for. If their doctor prescribes the drug, keep track of their intake and how many is still left in the bottle. Make sure they’re not taking too much too soon, or too frequently. This is a habit-forming drug. That means it can cause you to develop dependence very quickly. If the user is not careful, they can easily get addicted.

Even if the patient accidentally misses a dose, do not let them take more to make up for the one they skipped.

They may display drug-seeking behavior, or attempt to visit multiple doctors to get the same prescription repeatedly. They will begin to withdraw from social activities and hobbies they used to enjoy.

Abuse Effects and Withdrawal

But the biggest indicator of Norco abuse is if they are experiencing its adverse effects. Users may feel lightheaded, dizzy, or nauseated. They may vomit or sweat profusely. They will also feel relaxed, drowsy or euphoric.

Remember that overdosing on Norco can be fatal.

Other common effects of Norco use are constipation, respiratory depression, and even permanent hearing loss.

This drug also has psychological effects. It may cause fear, confusion, unease, and mood swings.

Those who have developed physical dependence for the drug will find that it is much harder to regulate their intake. Every time they try to quit using Norco, they experience withdrawal symptoms such as yawning, agitation, severe nausea, dilated pupils, gastrointestinal problems, and even physical pain.

Addiction Treatment

It is important for an individual suffering from Norco addiction to seek treatment. This is the crucial first step towards recovery. Help them find a good treatment facility near you.

Medical professionals will be able to create a proper treatment plan based on the patient’s specific needs and condition. There are many factors to be considered such as their age, gender, weight, drug habits, symptoms, and overall health. But generally, patients will go through detoxification. This is a process that involves gradually lowering their Norco intake, so that the withdrawal symptoms aren’t as severe. The symptoms that do manifest are managed immediately.

Afterwards, the patient will go through behavioral therapy or other similar method. The goal is to help them adjust to an addiction-free lifestyle and stay sober.

Recovery is indeed possible. All it takes is a steady support system, some willpower, and assistance from medical professionals.

Addiction Free Solutions

Dont be problem focused. Be solution focused! At Addiction Free Solutions, we know that the solution lies within you. You have to commit to living a sober life. We help connect you with a center that can help assist you from detox and rehab to therapy. We want you to get the help that you need so you can go on and inspire others. Looking for in-patient, out-patient or sober living afterwards? We help you with that as well!