Lortab Addiction

Lortab combines a narcotic analgesic (painkiller) and cough reliever with a non-narcotic analgesic for the relief of moderate to moderately severe pain. Lortab is the brand name for the combination of acetaminophen (Tylenol) and hydrocodone. The hydrocodone in Lortab binds to the pain receptors in the brain so that the sensation of pain is reduced. The acetaminophen in Lortab halts the production of prostaglandins which otherwise cause pain. Lortab is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form; and when prescribed is taken every 4-6 hours by mouth. The hydrocodone found in Lortab can lead to addiction if abused or overused. When Lortab is prescribed by a doctor do not take larger doses, take Lortab more frequently, or take Lortab for longer than prescribed by the doctor.

You may wonder why you or someone you care about has formed a Lortab addiction. The simple reason is that addictive drugs such as Lortab mimic the action of chemicals that are produced in the brain, sending messages of pleasure to the brain's reward center. This produces an artificial feeling of pleasure. Most drugs of addiction, such as Lortab, are able to produce pleasurable effects by chemically acting like certain normal brain messenger chemicals. This then produces positive feelings in response to the signals sent from the brain. The result is a dependence on the immediate, fast, predictable effects of Lortab, at the same time, short circuits interests in and the motivation to make life's normal rewards work. More and more confidence is placed on Lortab while other survival feelings are ignored and bypassed. The result of this Lortab addiction cycle is a lack of concern for, and confidence in, other areas of life.

Lortab addiction can affect the young, middle aged, or elderly. Individuals who have a Lortab addiction may come from any walk of life, hold entry level or high positions, be parents or grandparents, single or married. Often, the addiction develops without the individual realizing it until the drug begins to control their life. When an individual exceeds the dosage prescribed or seeks to obtain the drug after the time prescribed by their physician, they should be alert to the possibility of Lortab addiction.