Lortab® Addiction

What Is Lortab?

Lortab is a prescription medication that combines hydrocodone (an opioid analgesic) with acetaminophen (Tylenol®). It is prescribed for moderate to severe pain from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions. Like other prescription opioids, Lortab works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain signals and producing feelings of relaxation or euphoria. Those same effects increase the risk of misuse and addiction.

Due to rising misuse, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reclassified all hydrocodone combination products, including Lortab, as Schedule II controlled substances in 2014 to reflect their high potential for abuse and dependence.

Side Effects of Lortab Abuse

Side effects vary based on dose, frequency, and individual health history. Misuse can quickly escalate from uncomfortable symptoms to life-threatening complications.

Immediate/short-term effects

• Drowsiness, lightheadedness, or dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Confusion or impaired judgment
• Low blood pressure
• Slowed or shallow breathing

Long-term or high-dose effects

• Respiratory depression (dangerously slowed breathing)
• Hyperalgesia (increased sensitivity to pain)
• Liver damage or failure due to excessive acetaminophen exposure
• Hormonal changes (e.g., low testosterone)
• Mood changes, anxiety, or depression
• Severe constipation and bowel issues

The acetaminophen in Lortab adds a unique safety concern. The FDA limits prescription combination products to no more than 325 mg of acetaminophen per dosage unit to reduce the risk of liver injury. Taking large doses, taking doses too frequently, or mixing Lortab with alcohol can trigger acute liver failure.

Lortab Abuse and Addiction

Hydrocodone activates the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine that reinforces drug-taking behavior. Over time, the brain adapts, and the same dose produces less effect (tolerance). People may take more to chase relief or euphoria, and begin to feel unwell without it (physical dependence). Continuing use despite harm indicates addiction.

Prescription opioid misuse remains a major driver of overdose in the United States. Public health guidance emphasizes careful prescribing, patient education, and timely access to evidence-based treatment.

How to Recognize Lortab Abuse

Many people start Lortab exactly as prescribed, then gradually drift into misuse to manage stress, improve mood, or avoid withdrawal. Warning signs include:

• Taking Lortab more often or in higher amounts than prescribed
• Using Lortab primarily for its euphoric effects rather than pain relief
• Combining Lortab with alcohol or other depressants
• “Doctor shopping” or misrepresenting symptoms to obtain more pills
• Hiding use, running out early, or borrowing medication

Because Lortab contains acetaminophen, watch for liver-related warning signs, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes), dark urine, unusual fatigue, or right upper abdominal pain.

Signs of Lortab Addiction

Once individuals begin to abuse their prescriptions, it can quickly turn into an addiction. A Lortab addiction includes physical and psychological dependence, which can manifest in a wide variety of behaviors.

• Strong cravings for Lortab and difficulty cutting down
• Compulsive or secretive use despite problems at home, work, or school
• Needing higher or more frequent doses (tolerance)
• Withdrawal symptoms when missing or delaying a dose
• Mood swings, irritability, or depression
• Financial or legal issues related to obtaining the drug

Lortab Withdrawal

Withdrawal occurs after the body adapts to hydrocodone and the drug is reduced or stopped. Symptoms can begin within 6–12 hours of the last dose, peak around 24–72 hours, and gradually improve in the following days. While not typically life-threatening, opioid withdrawal can be intensely uncomfortable and can trigger relapse without support.

• Anxiety, restlessness, and irritability
• Body aches, muscle cramps, and chills/sweats
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Insomnia and fatigue
• Rapid heart rate and elevated blood pressure
• Low mood or depression

Medical supervision is recommended—especially for people taking high doses or using Lortab for a long time—so symptoms can be managed safely and complications (including liver monitoring) can be addressed.

Lortab Overdose

Overdose can result from taking too much hydrocodone, too much acetaminophen, or both. It is a medical emergency.

Overdose symptoms

• Extreme drowsiness or unresponsiveness
• Slow or stopped breathing (respiratory depression)
• Pinpoint pupils
• Cold, clammy skin; bluish lips or fingertips
• Slow heartbeat or low blood pressure
• Confusion, seizures, or loss of consciousness

Call 911 immediately. If available, administer naloxone (Narcan®). Keep the person awake if possible and place them on their side to prevent choking if they vomit. Because Lortab contains acetaminophen, prompt medical evaluation is essential to assess and treat potential liver injury.

Lortab Addiction Treatment

Recovery is possible. Effective treatment combines medical care, behavioral therapy, and social support tailored to your needs.

Lortab Detox

Detox is the process of clearing opioids from the body while safely managing withdrawal. Depending on severity, detox may occur in an inpatient setting (recommended for higher-risk cases) or on an outpatient basis for milder dependence. Clinicians may use medications such as buprenorphine or methadone to ease symptoms and reduce cravings as part of a comprehensive plan.

Lortab Rehab Programs

After detox, rehabilitation helps build long-term recovery skills.

Inpatient programs (commonly 30–90 days) provide structured care away from triggers. Outpatient programs offer flexibility for school, work, and family responsibilities.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can continue through rehab to stabilize recovery and lower relapse risk.

Therapy for Lortab Addiction

Behavioral therapies—such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI)—help identify triggers, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and build healthier coping strategies.

Family therapy and peer support (e.g., Narcotics Anonymous) can strengthen recovery and accountability.

Lortab Addiction Statistics

• Hydrocodone combination products have been tightly regulated as Schedule II since 2014 due to abuse potential.
• Opioids remain involved in the majority of U.S. drug overdose deaths, underscoring the importance of prevention and treatment.
• Public health guidance emphasizes safer prescribing, overdose education, and expanded access to evidence-based care.

Find Help and Treatment for Lortab Addiction

You are not alone. Talk with your doctor or an addiction specialist about a plan that fits your health history and goals. For confidential, 24/7 support and to locate nearby services, visit our treatment directory or call the National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Our Find Treatment Help page also provides resources to guide you on your journey.

Written by

Chris Carberg

AddictionHelp.com Founder & Mental Health Advocate

Chris Carberg is the Co-Founder of AddictionHelp.com, and a long-time recovering addict from prescription opioids, sedatives, and alcohol.  Over the past 15 years, Chris has worked as a tireless advocate for addicts and their loved ones while becoming a sought-after digital entrepreneur. Chris is a storyteller and aims to share his story with others in the hopes of helping them achieve their own recovery.

Reviewed by

• Fact-Checked
• Editor

Kent S. Hoffman, D.O.

Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer

Kent S. Hoffman, D.O. has been an expert in addiction medicine for more than 15 years. In addition to managing a successful family medical practice, Dr. Hoffman is board certified in addiction medicine by the American Osteopathic Academy of Addiction Medicine (AOAAM). Dr. Hoffman has successfully treated hundreds of patients battling addiction. Dr. Hoffman is the Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of AddictionHelp.com and ensures the website’s medical content and messaging quality.