“Hydrocodone withdrawal?”

There are three questions here.First immediate risks physically and mentally, next-long term concerns and and last control of his pain. Within about 10 hours of last dose building to maximum at about 72 hours is the most discomfort with about 25 possible symptoms, the most serious being dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea. This phase is best treated with a benzodiazepine of varying dose plus clonidine for about 3 days. Initiation of an opioid blocker such as Suboxone is essential now and over months-years since he has damage to the brain neuroreceptors and neurotransmitters with a high risk of relapse without medication. Fortunately,Suboxone is as effective in controlling chronic pain as hydrocodone without the harmful effects of that drug.

Opioid withdrawal (I assume that's the issue since he's been on these meds for 15 years and is now without) is a potentially dangerous thing in older people, especially with coronary artery disease.
Many emergency departments now have programs where they will evaluate a patient for opioid withdrawal and if appropriate start medication with a referral to a provider who can provide ongoing treatment. It sounds like he is physically dependent, no necessarily "addicted", but that needs to be looked into.
Good luck

Hello, when a person is on opioid analgesics like hydrocodone, that medication should not be stopped abruptly. He needs to get back on the medication and be slowly weaned off or see a pain specialist to manage his pain. There are other options for pain management than hydrocodone. Dr. Dora Dixie

If he cannot get a refill from his physician, he will likely start developing withdrawal symptoms that are serious, but not life-threatening, and may need treatment especially due to his age and depending on other comorbid medical conditions. I would schedule an appointment with his doctor ASAP or take him to the ER or urgent care to discuss next steps. Best thing to do is find an alternate pain management option long-term.

My advice would be to see a medical professional to discuss options for detox or Pain Management.

Depends on how much he has been taking. If it is three or four tablets per day, withdrawal will likely be minimal and can be managed with over the counter medication for the symptoms. However, if he is taking more, or if he has underlying medical/psychiatric conditions that can be worsened by withdrawal, it may be more of a problem. The physician who was prescribing the hydrocodone should be able to give you referral information for professionals who can help your husband.