How Long Does Hydrocodone Stay in Your System?

Hydrocodone and similar compounds are marketed under a variety of different names, such as Vicodin, Symtan, Anexsia, Panacet, Mercodinone, and Xodol to name a few. It was first synthesized in 1920, and since then has remained a popular drug.

Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid. Hydrocodone usually stays in your system for a period between three to four days. In some cases, depending on the individual and how fast he or she metabolizes the drug, it might be present in your system for as long as seven days.  

The drug does not occur naturally in nature, and has to be derived from two naturally occurring opiates. These opiates are codeine and thebaine. The drug was first created in Germany. Approximately twenty-three years after it was first synthesized, the drug was approved for sale in the United States, as well as in Canada.

Hydrocodone is currently available only in combination of other ingredients. Since it is only available in combination with other ingredients, different types of hydrocodone perform different actions. For example, some forms of hydrocodone are used to relieve pain. It accomplishes this by binding to opioid receptors in both the brain and spinal cord. When it binds to these centers, it alters the way that your brain and spine are responding to pain so you do not feel it as acutely.

Other forms of the drug are used to relive severe coughs. The forms of the drug that are used to relieve coughs decrease activity in the area of the brain that is causing the individual to cough. Hydrocodone comes in a variety of forms. You can get it in a tablet, a capsule, a syrup, an extended release capsule, and a solution to name a few of the forms.

Side Effects

Hydrocodone can cause a number of different side effects. These side effects include:

• Vomiting
• Dry and scratchy throat
• Rash
• Lightheadedness
• Anxiety
• Constipation
• Drowsiness
• Extreme happiness
• Extreme sadness
• Problems urinating

Two of the more serious side effects include a tightness in your chest, or difficulty breathing. If you experience either of these side effects, you need to call both your doctor and the hospital immediately.

Further, hydrocodone is known to be habit forming. Some individuals take the drug for recreational use because of the pleasure that it can cause. Due to this, hydrocodone isn’t available in its purest form, as stated above. For example, it’s available in combination with aspirin, ibuprofen, or paracetamol. Additionally, you need a prescription from your doctor to receive it. 

Overdose

You can overdose on the drug, and it can be extremely dangerous. If you notice some of the following symptoms, then you need to call an ambulance:

• Cold
• Clammy
• Blue skin
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Slowed heartbeat
• Extreme fatigue

If you overdose, you run the risk of death. Follow your doctor’s instructions exactly for how much you should take, and how often you should take the drug.