Is Lortab A Controlled Substance Or A Narcotic?

Medically reviewed by

Isaac Alexis, M.D., AAMA, AMP-BC

May 7, 2019

Lortab is a prescription medication most often used in the treatment of moderate to severe pain. Lortab is made up of the drugs hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Hydrocodone is a powerful substance that belongs to the opioid family of drugs.

Hydrocodone is similar to other opioids such as oxycodone and morphine. Opioids work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and changing how the brain and body perceive pain. These drugs come with a number of side effects, including depressed breathing and drowsiness.

Lortab is typically only prescribed for short-term use. This drug should be taken exactly as directed by a medical professional. Taking Lortab for longer than prescribed or taking more of the drug than prescribed can increase the chances of dependence and addiction.

What Is A Controlled Substance?

Controlled substances are drugs that are listed under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). These drugs are separated into five different schedules. Schedules are broken down based on a drug’s abuse potential, accepted medical use, and the likelihood of dependence.

Opioids such as hydrocodone fall under the second schedule of controlled substances. As a Schedule II drug, Lortab and other drugs with hydrocodone in them have a high potential for abuse and addiction.

Schedule II drugs are considered the most controlled substances that are legal in the United States. These medications are used in medical settings; however, using them can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.

Is Lortab Also A Narcotic?

The term “narcotic” was originally used in conjunction with any drug that resulted in dulled senses and pain relief. However, today it is used only to classify drugs that fall under the opioid category.

Because Lortab contains hydrocodone, an opioid, this drug is considered a narcotic.

Getting Help Lortab Abuse And Addiction

Like other opioids, Lortab comes with a high potential for abuse and addiction. Even people who use this drug exactly as prescribed may develop a dependence and addiction to the drug. If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Lortab, there are several treatment options available.

Formal treatment programs are often recommended to overcome opioid addiction. This may include a medically supervised detox program followed by inpatient treatment. Inpatient treatment is often considered the most successful form of treatment for those struggling with an addiction to Lortab and other opioids.

To learn more about whether Lortab is a controlled substance or a narcotic, contact a treatment specialist today.