Zohydro Withdrawal: Symptoms, Timeline & Treatment

Zohydro withdrawal can be physically and emotionally demanding, especially for those who have been using the drug for an extended period. As a powerful extended-release opioid, Zohydro can create a strong dependence, making it difficult to stop without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Many people who try stopping Zohydro alone struggle with intense cravings, pain, and other uncomfortable effects that can drive them back to using it. Understanding what Zohydro withdrawal feels like and how to manage it safely is the first step toward breaking free from dependence.

Medical detox provides a safer and more comfortable way to get through withdrawal. With the proper support, people can manage symptoms more effectively and reduce the risk of complications. Whether someone has been using Zohydro as prescribed or misusing it, professional treatment can help ease the withdrawal process and set the foundation for long-term recovery. This page outlines what to expect from the process and how to connect with compassionate and evidence-based care. 

What Is Zohydro?

Zohydro ER (extended-release) is a powerful prescription opioid used to manage severe pain [1]. Unlike other hydrocodone-based medications, which combine hydrocodone with acetaminophen, Zohydro is a pure hydrocodone formula. It was designed to provide long-lasting pain relief, but its high potency makes it easier to misuse.

Because Zohydro does not contain acetaminophen, some people assume it is safer than drugs like Vicodin or Norco. However, this is not the case. Zohydro carries a high risk of dependence, addiction, and overdose—especially when taken in higher doses or in ways other than prescribed. When someone takes Zohydro for an extended period, their body adjusts to the drug, leading to physical dependence. If they stop suddenly, Zohydro withdrawal symptoms can begin within hours. 

What Is Zohydro Withdrawal Like?

Zohydro withdrawal happens when the body struggles to function without the drug. Opioids affect the brain’s natural chemistry, and over time, the body relies on the drug to feel normal [2]. Once someone stops taking it, their system goes into shock, triggering a range of withdrawal symptoms of Zohydro.

 Common Zohydro withdrawals include: 

• Severe cravings
• Nausea and vomiting
• Muscle aches and joint pain
• Sweating and chills
• Anxiety and restlessness
• Insomnia and fatigue
• Stomach cramps and diarrhea
• Depression and mood swings
• Increased heart rate and high blood pressure

Zohydro Withdrawal Timeline

 Although everyone experiences detox differently, a typical Zohydro withdrawal timeline unfolds as follows: 

• 6 to 12 hours after last dose: Early withdrawals from Zohydro begin, including anxiety, sweating, muscle aches, and intense cravings.
• 24 to 48 hours after last dose: The side effects of stopping Zohydro peak, becoming most intense during this period. Severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and shaking may occur. Sleep is difficult, and emotions may feel out of control.
• 3 to 5 days after last dose: Physical symptoms start to fade, but fatigue, body aches, and stomach issues can linger. Anxiety and depression may become more noticeable.
• 1 to 2 weeks after last dose: Most physical symptoms improve, but mental health struggles like depression, cravings, and brain fog may continue. Some people experience PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome), which can cause mood swings and cravings for months [3].

Withdrawal from Zohydro is extremely uncomfortable and can be dangerous without proper support. Many people relapse during withdrawal because symptoms become overwhelming. Medical detox can help make the process safer and more manageable. 

Why Zohydro Abuse Causes Withdrawal

Zohydro, like all opioids, rewires the brain’s reward system [4]. It triggers a surge of dopamine, the chemical responsible for pleasure and relaxation. Over time, the brain adjusts to this artificial dopamine boost, making it harder to feel normal without the drug. When someone stops taking Zohydro, their brain struggles to produce dopamine naturally, leading to withdrawal symptoms.

 Reasons why Zohydro withdrawal happens include:

• Physical dependence: The body gets used to Zohydro and requires it to function normally.
• Brain chemistry changes: The brain reduces its natural dopamine production, making withdrawal feel like an emotional and physical crash.
• Nervous system imbalance: Opioids suppress certain functions, like pain perception. When the drug is removed, the body overcorrects, causing heightened pain sensitivity, rapid heartbeat, and digestive issues.

People who take Zohydro exactly as prescribed can still develop dependence. Misuse, such as crushing or snorting the drug, increases the risk of addiction and severe Zohydro withdrawal symptoms. Whether Zohydro use started with a doctor’s prescription or recreational use, withdrawal can be intense and dangerous without proper medical care. 

What Is Detox for Zohydro Like?

Detox for Zohydro typically involves a medically supervised process to manage withdrawal symptoms, often using tapering strategies or medications like buprenorphine to reduce discomfort.This is the first step in overcoming Zohydro dependence. It allows the body to clear the drug while managing withdrawal symptoms in a safe environment.

Because opioid withdrawal can be intense, medical detox is highly recommended. Detox programs provide 24/7 medical supervision, medications to ease symptoms, and emotional support to reduce the risk of relapse.

Some people attempt to quit Zohydro on their own, but withdrawal symptoms can be aggravating and even dangerous. Detoxing from Zohydro without medical help increases the chances of relapse, dehydration, and complications like severe vomiting or high blood pressure.

In contrast, medical detox for Zohydro provides: 

• A safe, controlled environment to manage symptoms.
• Medications like buprenorphine or methadone to ease cravings and withdrawal.
• IV fluids and nutritional support to prevent dehydration and malnutrition.
• Supervised care to monitor blood pressure, heart rate, and overall health.
• Emotional support to manage anxiety, depression, and cravings.

Doctors may prescribe medications to help with withdrawal symptoms, making detox more comfortable. Some common options include:

• Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex): Reduces cravings and withdrawal severity.
• Methadone: Helps manage withdrawal for those with long-term opioid use.
• Clonidine: Lowers blood pressure, eases anxiety, and reduces sweating.
• Anti-nausea medications: Helps with vomiting and stomach cramps.
• Sleep aids: Addresses insomnia and restlessness.

 The detox process typically lasts 5 to 10 days, depending on the person’s history of use, dosage, and overall health. After detox, treatment must continue to prevent relapse. Detox alone is not a cure—rather, it is the first step toward sustained recovery.

What Happens After Zohydro Detox?

After detox, the body is no longer physically dependent on Zohydro, but the mental and emotional effects of opioid use remain. Many people experience strong cravings, depression, and anxiety in the weeks and months after detox. This is why continued treatment is essential, such as:

• Inpatient rehab: A structured, residential program where people receive therapy, medical support, and relapse prevention training.
• Outpatient treatment: Allows people to live at home while attending therapy and support groups several times a week.
• MAT (medication-assisted treatment): Some individuals continue taking medications like Suboxone or methadone to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
• Therapy and counseling: CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and group therapy help address the emotional side of addiction.
• Support Groups: Programs like NA (Narcotics Anonymous) or SMART Recovery offer community support and accountability.

Without ongoing treatment, many people relapse because withdrawal does not eliminate cravings. The brain takes time to heal, and people often struggle with stress, triggers, and emotional distress that led to opioid use in the first place. Structured support helps prevent relapse by teaching coping strategies and providing ongoing encouragement.

Recovery doesn’t end with detox—it’s a long-term journey that requires commitment, support, and lifestyle changes. With the right treatment plan, lasting freedom from Zohydro dependence is possible.

FAQs

Is Zohydro stronger than hydrocodone?

Yes, Zohydro is a pure extended-release form of hydrocodone, making it stronger and longer-lasting than traditional hydrocodone medications like Vicodin, which contain acetaminophen. Zohydro delivers higher doses of hydrocodone over time, increasing the risk of dependence and overdose.

Can you stop taking hydrocodone all at once?

Stopping hydrocodone suddenly can lead to intense withdrawal symptoms, including nausea, muscle pain, anxiety, and cravings. A gradual tapering plan under medical supervision is the safest way to stop and reduce the risk of severe withdrawal effects.

Is Zohydro a controlled substance?

Yes, Zohydro is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance under the Controlled Substances Act. This means it has a high potential for abuse and addiction and is only available with a strict prescription.

Can hydrocodone affect short term memory?

Yes, hydrocodone can impair short-term memory and cognitive function, especially when taken in high doses or over long periods. It affects the brain’s opioid receptors, which can slow down thinking, reduce focus, and make it harder to retain new information.  

Get Help with Opioid Addiction Treatment at Renaissance Recovery

If you or a loved one needs help getting back on track from opioid addiction, reach out to Renaissance Recovery. We can help you find detox centers near you to streamline Zohydro withdrawal and prepare you for ongoing treatment at our luxury facility.

 Outpatient treatment at Renaissance enables you to continue at home, work, or school while getting first-class and evidence-based therapy.
The unique aspect of all opioid addictions means all our treatment plans are personalized. Therapies include:

• Medication-assisted treatment
• Counseling
• Talk therapies
• Motivational therapies
• Holistic treatments
• Family therapy
• Group therapy
• Aftercare planning

 Kickstart your recovery by calling Renaissance at 866-330-9449.

Sources

[1] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/fda-provides-facts-about-zohydro

[2] https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drugs-brain

[3] https://sbmi.uth.edu/heroes/documents/Post-Acute-Withdrawal.pdf

[4] https://www.pbs.org/newshour/science/brain-gets-hooked-opioids