Expert: Jacqui - 10/17/2009

Question
I take 4 10mgs of Hydrocodone and some beer a day. I would like to stop, can i just stop right away or slow, and what can i expect. These are doctor prescribed. Also i am going for a new job they might drug test, how long before they are out of my system?
Thanks in advance

Answer
Hey Ed,

Unfortunately I can't give a specific on how long hydrocodone can show up in urine screens, but opiates such as heroin stay in the system for up to 5 days, and given that you are probably taking a long acting type of hydrocodone, it may be longer.  I find it somewhat concerning that you are worried about it if they are prescribed by a doctor.  If a doctor says you need them, I would've thought that it was none of your employers business!  If you are worried about your health, then you might want to think about moderating your alcohol intake a little, as alcohol is generally more harmful that opiates, especially long term high level use.

Unlike most of the posts I answer on this site, you really do have a real choice in what you take because neither are illegal.  I am not one for ever saying that someone has to come off drugs, but unfortunately the legal situation can make it difficult for people.  However, both of the things you are using are legal, so you don't need to worry to much in that department.  

I would need more info about how long you have been taking the hydrocodone before being able to say how much of a problem you might have with stopping.  If you have been taking them daiy for an extended period (more than a month), you are likely ot have some withdrawals if you stop straight away.  You can, however, taper off.  Can you break the tabs in half?  Ideally, you would speak to your doctor about coming off them, but if that isn't much help, and you have been on them for a long time, then you might want to try going down half a tablet a week.  When you get down to one tab a day, you might need to go by quarters.  If you have only been on them a few weeks, you should be able to do this a bit quicker, but could still have some withdrawals.  Opiate withdrawal is pretty unlikely to kill anyone, but can be pretty uncomfortable, so it is important that you are kind to yourself.  Eat well, get some light exercise.  If you get joint or muscle aches, then take a warm bath.  Try not to put yourself in any stress inducing situations.

You could just stop, but you would need to be prepared to feel not so great for a few days.  Slow release/longer acting opiates can take a while to come out of the system, so if you wanted to go 'cold turkey' (that really is such a stupid term!) you would need a couple of weeks to feel normal again. It isn't impossible, but you might need some support.  

If there is any other information you need, please don't hesitate to let me know.

Take care and whatever you do, do it safely,

Jacqui