What Is Lortab Used For?

Lortab is a brand name for the drug hydrocodone. Lortab is a semi-synthetic opiate that, in large does, produces similar effects to those of OxyContin. Taken repeatedly, it can result in dependence and addiction. Initially, recreational use of Lortab produces a feeling of euphoria. However, like in the case of any other narcotic, the human body builds a tolerance to Lortab, meaning more of the drug must be taken in order to produce the same effect as use continues.

Some important facts to consider about Lortab abuse include the following:

Abusing Lortab can lead to physical and psychological addiction/dependence.
Lortab is NOT intended for long-term use.

Hydrocodone side effects can be severe when the drug is misused.

Prolonged use of Lortab can lead to a number of health problems, such as:

Dangerously decreased breathing rate.
Liver problems.
Depression.

Similar hydrocodone medications are marketed as Norco and Zohydro.

Signs and Symptoms of Lortab Abuse

It’s important to know what to look for when you suspect that you or someone you care about may be addicted to Lortab. Hydrocodone abuse can cause a variety of side effects and symptoms, which may include:

Confusion.
Constipation.
Dizziness.
Dry mouth.
Hallucinations.
Hearing loss.
Small, constricted pupils.
Hyperventilation.

Jaundice.
Paranoia.
Slowed heart rate.
Stomach pain.
Twitching of the muscles.
Weakness.
Weight loss.

Another clear sign of abuse that you may notice is the user having multiple prescriptions from different doctors, as well as an abnormal number of medical appointments.

Side Effects of Lortab Abuse

Abuse of Lortab can wreak havoc on someone both physically and mentally. It can also cause severe opioid withdrawal symptoms when use is interrupted or stopped abruptly.

Lortab Abuse Treatment Types

There are several addiction treatment options for someone who wants to recover from Lortab addiction.

Hope on paper

12-Step programs—Narcotics Anonymous (NA) caters to people who are recovering from addictions to Lortab and other narcotics. Depending on where you live, NA may have an open meeting or several meetings you can attend. There is no cost to participate in NA.
Inpatient (residential) treatment centers—Inpatient treatment programs usually last for 30 days, 60 days, or 90 days. Some last even longer—longer stays may be recommended for severe addictions. The recovering addict lives at the facility in a controlled environment while they focus on battling their addiction. Inpatient treatment offers immersive care environments that take the user away from everyday triggers and cues to use.
Outpatient treatment centers—Outpatient treatment centers allow a recovering addict to sleep at home and visit the treatment center during specific hours of the day. This gives the addict a chance to recover in his or her own social, family, and work environment. This can be an advantage, since this is the environment they’ll be in when they graduate treatment.

If you or someone you love is ready to seek treatment for Lortab abuse, American Addiction Centers (AAC) can help. Please call us free at to speak with someone who can advise you on the best course of action for dealing with addiction.

Statistics on Lortab Use

Illicit usage of these prescription medications has reached alarming rates. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that more than 23 million people over the age of 12 have abused or misused Lortab. Consider these other alarming statistics:

Lortab and drugs in the same category (opiates) are some of the most prescribed and abused drugs in the U.S.
More than 200 prescription medications contain hydrocodone (Lortab).
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 14,800 Americans died of opiate overdoses in 2008.

Teen Lortab Abuse

According to a University of Michigan study, 1 in 8 high school seniors reported non-medical use of prescription opiates such as Lortab.

Woman with neck pains

You can prevent non-medical use of Lortab and other opiates by communicating with your teen about the risks associated with the recreational use of prescription drugs. Here are some other things you can do to help prevent teen Lortab use:

Keep any Lortab in your house securely locked away and out of reach.
Pay attention to the friends with whom your teen spends his or her time.
Monitor your teen’s Internet activity.
Explain to your teen that prescription drugs can be just as dangerous and addictive as illegal drugs.

If you suspect that your teen is using Lortab or other drugs, keep your eye out for changes in friends, behaviors, and routines.

You can also learn more about teen drug misuse.

Find Opioid Addiction Treatment Programs

If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional treatment can start anyone battling a substance use problem on the path to a happier and healthier life. Rehab programs are located throughout the U.S., and many offer specialized treatment that can cater to individual needs. You can use SAMHSA’s Find Treatment tool to search for rehab centers. Many state government websites will provide local drug and alcohol resources to those in need. To find your state government’s website, do a web search for your state name and ‘.gov.’ Once your state website is located, substance use resources shouldn’t be hard to find, and they should provide further phone contacts for your assistance.

American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider and has trusted rehab facilities across the country. To learn more about opioid addiction treatment options with AAC, please contact one of our caring admissions navigators free at .

You can also speak with others about drug addiction and recovery by visiting our DrugAbuse.com Forum today.

Lortab Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment