Damason-P Withdrawal: Quitting, Symptoms, Timeline, & Help

Damason-P is a prescription pain medication that combines hydrocodone, a potent opioid, with aspirin to provide relief from moderate to severe pain. While effective for managing pain, Damason-P carries a significant risk of addiction due to its opioid component. Over time, misuse or prolonged use of this medication can lead to physical dependence, making it difficult for individuals to stop taking it without experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

This guide outlines what to expect from the withdrawal process and how to connect with compassionate and effective treatment for opioid addiction.

Drug Classifications

Damason-P is a combination medication that pairs hydrocodone, a semi-synthetic opioid, with aspirin, an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Each component serves a specific purpose: aspirin reduces inflammation, fever, and pain, while hydrocodone interacts with opioid receptors in the brain to block pain signals and induce a sense of calm [1].

Hydrocodone is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act [2]. This means it has a recognized medical use but also carries a high potential for abuse and addiction. Aspirin is a widely used over-the-counter medication that falls under the salicylate drug category and is commonly used for pain relief and heart health.

Damason-P is also categorized by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) as a Category C pregnancy drug, meaning it may pose risks to unborn babies and can pass into breast milk [3]. For nursing mothers, this could result in an infant experiencing drug dependence or withdrawal symptoms. Given these classifications, Damason-P is carefully regulated and should only be used under a doctor’s supervision to avoid complications or misuse.

Effects and Symptoms of Abuse   

While Damason-P is a valuable tool for managing pain, its opioid component, hydrocodone, makes it highly addictive. People may misuse this medication by taking higher doses than prescribed, using it more frequently, or combining it with other substances to enhance its effects. Such behaviors can lead to addiction, which is a chronic condition that affects both the body and the mind.

Misusing Damason-P may cause:

• Euphoria or a sense of extreme well-being.
• Drowsiness or sedation.
• Slurred speech or slowed reflexes.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Constipation or gastrointestinal discomfort.

While these effects may seem minor or pleasant to some, they can quickly escalate into dangerous territory, particularly when higher doses are involved.

Over time, consistent misuse of Damason-P can result in:

• Physical dependence: The body begins to rely on the drug to function normally.
• Tolerance: Increasing amounts of the drug are needed to achieve the same effects, which can accelerate misuse.
• Health complications: Liver damage from excessive aspirin use or respiratory issues from hydrocodone abuse.
• Mental health challenges: Anxiety, depression, or increased emotional instability.

It’s often easier to recognize drug abuse in others than in yourself. Behavioral signs to watch for include:

• Obsessive thinking about the next dose or where to get more medication.
• Doctor shopping or visiting multiple providers to obtain additional prescriptions [4].
• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home.
• Withdrawing from family, friends, or social activities.
• Risk-taking behaviors, such as driving under the influence or combining Damason-P with alcohol or other substances.

Many who misuse Damason-P do so unintentionally at first. Pain management can lead to over-reliance on the drug, especially if a person is dealing with chronic pain. Others may turn to Damason-P to escape emotional pain or stress. Its euphoric effects can temporarily numb feelings of depression or anxiety, but this relief comes at a high cost.

If you or someone you love is struggling with Damason-P misuse, early intervention can prevent the worsening effects of addiction and open the door to recovery.

Signs of a Damason-P Addiction

Recognizing the signs of Damason-P addiction can be a lifesaving step for individuals and their loved ones. Addiction doesn’t happen overnight—it often develops gradually, starting with misuse and progressing into dependence. Understanding the physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms of addiction can help identify the problem early and lead to effective intervention.

Damason-P addiction affects the body in noticeable ways. Physical signs to watch for include:

• Withdrawal symptoms: Flu-like symptoms, including nausea, sweating, and body aches appear when the drug is not used.
• Increased tolerance: Needing higher doses to achieve the same pain relief or euphoria level.
• Chronic fatigue: Feeling constantly tired or lethargic, even after resting.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Persistent constipation or abdominal pain.

Behavioral changes may indicate a growing dependence on Damason-P. These may include:

• Secretive behavior: Hiding medication use or lying about the amount being taken.
• Neglect of responsibilities: Falling behind at work, school, or home due to preoccupation with obtaining or using the drug.
• Social withdrawal: Pulling away from friends, family, and activities once enjoyed.

The mental effects of addiction can be just as debilitating as the physical ones. Psychological signs of Damason-P addiction may include:

• Obsessive thoughts: Constantly thinking about the next dose or worrying about running out of the medication.
• Mood swings: Irritability, depression, or anxiety between doses.
• Emotional detachment: Feeling disconnected from loved ones or daily life.

Identifying these signs early can make a significant difference. Addiction is a complex condition, but with proper help, individuals can overcome it and reclaim their lives.

Detoxification and Withdrawal

Recovering from Damason-P addiction begins with detoxification, the process of clearing the drug from the body. While detox is essential for recovery, it is not without challenges. The symptoms associated with Damason-P withdrawal can be intense, requiring medical supervision during this stage.

When someone stops using Damason-P, their body begins to adjust to the absence of the drug. This adjustment triggers withdrawal symptoms as the brain and nervous system attempt to regain balance.

Common Damason-P withdrawal symptoms include:

• Muscle pain and body aches.
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.
• Sweating and chills.
• Intense cravings for the drug.

Symptoms typically begin within 24 to 48 hours after the last dose, peak around 72 hours, and gradually subside over one to two weeks. However, psychological symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, may persist longer.

There are two primary approaches to Damason-P detox: inpatient and outpatient programs.

• Inpatient detox: Individuals stay at a treatment facility and receive 24/7 medical care. This option is ideal for people with severe addictions or those who lack a supportive home environment.
• Outpatient detox: People live at home but attend regular medical appointments to monitor their progress. This option provides flexibility but requires a strong support system.

In some cases, medications may be prescribed to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. These can include:

• Buprenorphine: Helps manage opioid withdrawal symptoms.
• Clonidine: Reduces anxiety, sweating, and muscle pain.
• Anti-nausea medications: Address gastrointestinal discomfort.

Attempting to detox from Damason-P without medical supervision can be dangerous and lead to complications such as severe dehydration or relapse. A structured detox program provides medical care, emotional support, and a clear path to long-term recovery.

Signs of a Damason-P Overdose

An overdose on Damason-P can happen when someone takes too much of the medication or combines it with other substances like alcohol or sedatives. Overdoses are medical emergencies that require immediate attention to prevent permanent damage or death. Recognizing the symptoms of a Damason-P overdose can help save a life.

Common signs include:

• Extreme drowsiness: Difficulty staying awake or sudden loss of consciousness.
• Respiratory depression: Slow, shallow, or irregular breathing.
• Blue lips or fingertips: A sign of oxygen deprivation.
• Severe stomach pain: Often accompanied by vomiting or nausea.
• Confusion or delirium: Disorientation or inability to focus.

Several factors can increase the risk of overdose:

• Taking higher doses than prescribed.
• Combining Damason-P with other central nervous system depressants.
• Misjudging tolerance levels after a period of abstinence.

If you suspect someone is overdosing on Damason-P: 

• Call 911 immediately.
• Administer Narcan (naloxone) if available. This medication can reverse the effects of opioids and save a life.
• Remain with the individual until help arrives. Try to keep them awake and monitor their breathing.

The best way to prevent an overdose is to use Damason-P precisely as prescribed and avoid combining it with alcohol or other substances. For those struggling with addiction, seeking professional treatment can provide the tools needed to prevent overdose and achieve lasting recovery.

Get Compassionate and Effective Opioid Addiction Treatment at Renaissance Recovery

If you need help for yourself or a loved one battling opioid addiction, contact Renaissance Recovery right away.

We can help you connect with detox centers near you to streamline opioid withdrawal and prepare you for ongoing treatment at one of our Florida or California rehabs. Our outpatient programs allow you to continue living at home and meeting your everyday obligations without compromising your recovery.

The unique aspect of all opioid addictions means Renaissance treatment plans are personalized. Therapies include

• MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
• Counseling
• Motivational therapies
• Talk therapies
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Holistic interventions
• Aftercare planning

When you’re ready to begin your recovery, call 866-330-9449.

Sources

[1] https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/oprm1/

[2] https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/schedules/schedules.html

[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507858/

[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3552465/