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Individuals who choose to utilize the drug illegally usually crush it themselves. Rather than be taken orally, the powder is snorted into the body by the user. Doing this allows the Vicodin to permeate the system in a short time compared to being swallowed, but it also puts individuals at a higher risk of harm and powerful side effects.
Medical Disclaimer
Understanding the addiction potential and risks of taking Vicodin is essential before committing to taking it for pain. People often get hydrocodone and other opioids from family members or friends. In some cases, they steal opioids or purchase them from street dealers. But prescription drugs obtained on the street are often mixed with more powerful substances, such as fentanyl, that increase the risk of experiencing a fatal overdose.
Some people who abuse hydrocodone do not become addicted, while others can develop an addiction rapidly. The effects of Vicodin, when taken as prescribed and under extremely strict medical supervision, can be highly beneficial. Patients often report significant pain reduction, which can improve quality of life, particularly for those dealing with chronic pain conditions. However, the side effects of Vicodin can range from mild to severe. If you feel you’re starting to crave the drug even at times when you feel little or no pain, talk with your doctor immediately.
State Rehab Guides
Each brand may vary slightly regarding hydrocodone and acetaminophen ratio, but their primary function remains consistent. When prescribed by a medical professional, the drug comes as a tablet or an oral liquid. Vicodin also became very popular within Hollywood, giving individuals more incentive to try the drug since they knew celebrities utilized it. Fortunately, many members of the Hollywood elite came forward with their struggles to warn others regarding the dangers of Vicodin addiction. In addition, always discard unused medication, including any unused Vicodin pills, properly. You can dispose of unused or expired medications at a medicine take-back event.
Vicodin Withdrawal
- Her friends and parents quickly noticed her symptoms — notably drowsiness and nodding off.
- The key to overcoming a Vicodin addiction is finding a comprehensive treatment program that meets your needs.
- If you or your loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.
- And not having any parental support when you are young can all increase your chances of drug use and addiction.
However, it can also be crushed and injected into veins or snorted to produce a more immediate high. Many people mix hydrocodone and alcohol to achieve pleasurable effects. A long-term addiction that involves high doses of hydrocodone may involve a longer recovery period than addiction from short-term use.
- A person with a Vicodin use disorder should seek medical attention to help overcome their disorder.
- After completing a treatment programme, ongoing aftercare is crucial to prevent relapse.
- At our facilities nationwide, we provide evidence-based care to those ready to put their addictions to substances like hydrocodone in the past.
- More specifically, 9.7 million people misused prescription pain medicines like Vicodin.
- Medical professionals prescribe the medication to help alleviate pain and make the patient more comfortable.
These will offer the tools and support needed to navigate life without relying on Vicodin. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is one of the most effective methods for treating opioid addiction, including Vicodin. MAT combines FDA-approved medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone to help individuals manage cravings, reduce withdrawal symptoms, and support long-term recovery. Vicodin addiction treatment typically begins with detoxification to rid the body of the drug and its toxins. In addition to medical support and counseling, patients may also enjoy alternative therapy options to ease their journey toward recovery.
Vicodin operates by interacting with the body’s central nervous system. The key component, hydrocodone, is an opioid that binds to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, known as opioid receptors. By attaching to these receptors, hydrocodone effectively blocks the transmission of pain signals to the brain, thus reducing the sensation of pain experienced by the user. However, this mechanism not only alleviates pain but can also induce feelings of relaxation and euphoria, contributing to Vicodin’s high potential for abuse.
Vicodin changes your perception of pain and your emotional response to it. The substance can produce feelings of lightheadedness and euphoria, which have resulted in the widespread misuse of hydrocodone nationwide. Vicodin addiction can be overwhelming and scary, but you aren’t alone. Treatment programs can help you overcome opioid addiction and reclaim your life.
When used as directed, this medication can safely improve your quality of life. But just like with other prescription drugs, using Vicodin outside of its intended purpose or to achieve a high can have serious consequences. What often starts as a simple Alcohol Use Disorder prescription to relieve pain can sometimes spiral into a dangerous dependency on opioids, such as Vicodin dependence. For many, it’s difficult even to recognize the signs of this dependence until it’s already taken hold. Vicodin is typically prescribed for severe pain that cannot be controlled without a narcotic.
Her friends and parents quickly noticed her symptoms — notably drowsiness and nodding off. Eventually, she pursued Vicodin addiction rehab and received the necessary treatment to begin a life of sobriety. Symptoms of Vicodin overdose include chest pain, bloody urine, trouble breathing, extreme drowsiness and changes in consciousness. If you or your loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.
In addition, those who are not prescribed Vicodin can be intrigued by these effects, which can cause them to seek it out by any means necessary. Unfortunately, regardless of why an individual starts to abuse Vicodin, the act of doing so can cause tolerance and addiction to develop rapidly. As soon as one has begun abusing this substance in a manner that impacts their overall functionality, it is likely that a Vicodin use disorder has developed. Our Vicodin addiction treatment program in San Antonio, TX, treats patients suffering from the long-term effects of Vicodin abuse. Opioids produce morphine-like effects and are primarily used for pain relief, including anesthesia.
However, some Vicodin-specific factors can increase the likelihood of an addiction forming. These include Vicodin overprescribing and the drug’s powerful effects on the brain. When an addiction to Vicodin forms, it is highly recommended to seek help from an accredited facility or work with a medical professional. Most people believe they can ease themselves off the drug on their own, but this is not the safest way to clear the body of Vicodin.
- If you’re experiencing withdrawal symptoms, a medical detox can help you manage these symptoms.
- If you are addicted to Vicodin or think you might be, seek professional treatment.
- Many individuals with a substance use disorder do not seek professional assistance.
- What often starts as a simple prescription to relieve pain can sometimes spiral into a dangerous dependency on opioids, such as Vicodin dependence.
The first step in treating Vicodin addiction is usually detox, where the body is cleared of the drug, physical dependence disrupted, and the body’s healing initiated. The Vicodin detox process should be medically supervised as withdrawal symptoms can be severe and potentially dangerous. Medications like methadone or buprenorphine may also be used to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Some individuals start using Vicodin to self-medicate for issues such as untreated pain, mental health disorders like depression or anxiety, or to cope with stress.
