Lorcet Abuse, Addiction, And Treatment Options

Medically reviewed by

Jennifer Cousineau MSCP, LPCI, NCC

March 5, 2019

What Is Lorcet?

Lorcet is manufactured by Mayne Pharma and contains hydrocodone (5mg, 7.5mg, or 10mg) and acetaminophen (325mg). Used to treat pain, this semi-synthetic opioid is only available by prescription. Lorcet is one of many brand names for hydrocodone/acetaminophen combo prescription medications.

Lorcet is highly addictive and should only be prescribed for a short amount of time. Extended hydrocodone use increases the likelihood of developing tolerance, and the individual would require higher doses of Lorcet to have the same effects. This can sometimes lead a person to take their prescription Loret in ways other than prescribed, which is a precursor to addiction.

Lorcet Abuse

Lorcet abuse can be defined as taking Lorcet in a way that is not prescribed. Sometimes Lorcet abuse can seem harmless, like taking a dose early or doubling the dose. Other types of Lorcet abuse are a bit more clear, including crushing and snorting Lorcet tablets.

If a person is abusing Lorcet and taking the pills in a way that is not approved, there are some telltale signs, including:

• pinpoint pupils
• continual drowsiness
• falling asleep under strange circumstances (like at a stop light)
• avoiding socializing
• constant scratching of skin
• decreased respiration
• increased confusion
• persistent nausea

In addition to the immediate signs of Lorcet abuse, there are also long term risks associated with Lorcet abuse, especially if Lorcet is taken for extended periods of time which may include:

• depression
• anxiety
• mood swings
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
• psychosis
• hallucinations
• coma
• death

In addition, acetaminophen has shown to cause liver damage and disease when taken in excess over a period of time. The damage that acetaminophen can do to a liver is irreversible and can be fatal.

People who abuse Lorcet are at increased risk for developing a dependence on Lorcet. This means they will need to continue to take Lorcet to feel ‘normal’. If the individual stops taking Lorcet at this point, they will likely experience withdrawal symptoms.

Lorcet Addiction

Being dependent on Lorcet does not mean someone will become addicted to Lorcet. Taking Lorcet as prescribed for extended periods of time has resulted in dependence, but there is a significant difference between dependence and addiction.

Indications of Lorcet addiction are:

• participating in drug-seeking behaviors (doctor shopping, multiple refill requests, symptom exaggeration)
• switching to other opioids when out of Lorcet (without doctor approval)
• using Lorcet when it is dangerous
• inability to stop taking Lorcet, or even lower amount taken
• long periods of time are spent finding and using Lorcet
• cravings for Lorcet
• Lorcet becomes a priority over work, school, social activities, and responsibilities
• withdrawal symptoms when Lorcet isn’t available

Lorcet Withdrawal

Lorcet withdrawal can range from mildly uncomfortable to seemingly impossible to bear. Often, a person will continue to abuse opioids in an attempt to avoid withdrawal, and this can lead to addictive behaviors.

The following are some of the symptoms of Lorcet withdrawal:

• watery eyes
• yawning
• runny nose
• goosebumps
• sweating
• nausea
• diarrhea
• agitation
• anxiety
• mood swings
• muscle aches
• restless legs
• body aches (similar to the flu, but more intense)
• vomiting

In general, Lorcet withdrawal symptoms are not fatal, but they can seem unbearable to the person experiencing them. These symptoms can last up to a week, and many people who return to opioid use report they could not stand to suffer through them for another day.

A person who is addicted or dependent on Lorcet may try to stop taking Lorcet all at once, and that usually triggers intense withdrawal symptoms. Once the cravings begin, the symptoms chip away at the idea of being sober. This can result in the person going back to opioids again, even though they were days away from the withdrawal symptoms subsiding.

Opioid detoxification programs are extremely important for people who want to stop taking Lorcet. These detox programs use a medically-supervised approach to help ease the discomfort associated with opioid withdrawal. Opioid detox programs also include support, substance abuse counseling, and information to those obtaining services.

Lorcet (hydrocodone) Statistics

• Lorcet abuse is highest among young people, ages 18 to 25
• Opioids, like Lorcet, caused nearly 15,000 deaths in 2017
• In 2016, 11.5 million people over the age of 12 acknowledged abusing opioids, including Lorcet

Lorcet Addiction Treatment

Facilities that are approved to help people struggling with Lorcet addiction (an opioid use disorder or OUD) are called opioid treatment programs (OTP). OTP programs operate within federal regulations that ensure that each person is getting evidence-based intervention methods and every attempt is made to ensure that sobriety is attainable.

According to regulations, OTP substance abuse locations must offer:

• thorough assessment and reevaluation during treatment
• detoxification (medically-supervised)
• client involved treatment planning
• medical care
• substance abuse treatment counseling
• educational and vocational training programs
• aftercare development

In addition to those requirements, the OTP must find resources to fulfill obligations if they cannot provide them onsite. The OTP is also required to monitor these off-site provisions to completion.

This system was created after studies revealed how many areas of life are affected by opioid addiction. The comprehensive care that is provided by opioid treatment programs has increased success rates in treating people struggling with Lorcet addiction.

We can assist in finding a substance abuse treatment location to treat Lorcet addiction. Reach out to us today and take the first step toward sobriety.