What is hydrocodone?
Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that is derived from codeine and thebaine, two opiates that occur naturally. It is also called dihydrocodeinone and is an antitussive or cough suppressant as well as a narcotic painkiller (analgesic) that is orally active. It is currently available by prescription in capsule, syrup, and tablet form and is oftentimes compounded with ibuprofen or paracetamol. The latter two are lesser effective compounds that are non-opioid in nature.
Dependency and recreation use
According to the DEA in a report released for 2009, hydrocodone is a member of a group of opiate-based painkillers that are illegally trafficked and considered a primary drug threat in the US. Additionally, the health and medical community views hydrocodone as a serious public health threat based on millions of annually reported cases involving serious illnesses associated with these medications. Due to its potential for producing opiate related side effects, it is a popular recreational drug and its popularity continues to grow.