Hydrocodone withdrawal duration

Hydrocodone withdrawal duration: How long does hydrocodone withdrawal last? We offer a hydrocodone withdrawal timeline here from start to finish.

2
minute read

The withdrawal symptoms from hydrocodone are not life-threatening, but are extremely uncomfortable and can make you want to take hydrocodone again just to stop the pain. Here, we’ll review the timeline for hydrocodone withdrawal and invite your questions at the end. Please send us your comments and feedback about hydrocodone withdrawal and we will respond personally to get you the help you need.

When do withdrawal symptoms start?

Emergence of withdrawal symptoms varies with half life of the particular opioid. Because hydrocodone is a short-acting opioid, symptoms of withdrawal tend to appear when the drug starts to leave your body and is eliminated from the blood (more on hydrocodone half life). So, withdrawal begins generally within 6-12 hours after the last dose of hydrocodone.

When does hydrocodone withdrawal peak?

Symptoms during hydrocodone detox usually peak somewhere between 24 to 72 hours after discontinuation. The intensity of the withdrawal reaction depends on the dose and speed of withdrawal. This is why short-acting opiates like hydrocodone tend to produce more intense but briefer symptoms. But keep in mind that because withdrawal symptoms are uncomfortable and unpredictable, it’s best to detox from hydrocodone under medical supervision. This way, you can treat possible complications and problems immediately.

When will hydrocodone withdrawal end?

Without intervention, hydrocodone withdrawal usually runs its course without much problem, and most physical symptoms disappear within days or weeks.

Hydrocodone withdrawal questions

Do you have any other questions about hydrocodone withdrawal length, duration or symptoms? Please leave them here. We’ll be happy to find you an answer or refer you to local and national resources. The first step towards getting off hydrocodone is asking more about HOW you can!

Reference sources: Harvard Medical School Treating opiate addiction, Part I: Detoxification and maintenance
American Chronic Pain Association Consumer Guide to Chronic Pain Medication & Treatment
End of Life Palliative Treatment Education Resource Center from the University of Wisconsin: Opioid withdrawal topic
Tolerance and physical dependence on pain medications from the University of Utah
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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