Vicodin is a powerful medication that’s effective at providing pain relief. It can also be highly addictive. Physicians prescribe Vicodin to treat moderate to severe pain associated with surgeries, illnesses or injuries.
What starts as a standard treatment, however, can quickly lead to a dependency if you’re not careful. You may start misusing this drug, lying about your condition to continue its use or purchasing Vicodin illegally in hopes of maintaining the euphoric feeling it provides.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Millions of people across the country misuse Vicodin, which often leads to addiction. The good news is that you don’t have to continue living like this. Keep reading to learn more about Vicodin, its withdrawal symptoms and how to find help.
What Is Vicodin?
Vicodin is a prescription medication containing a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen. The Department of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) labels Vicodin as a Schedule II controlled substance. It’s also sold illegally as a street drug under various nicknames, including Vics, Vikes, Hydros, Fluff and 357s.
The ingredient hydrocodone is an opioid pain reliever. It depresses the central nervous system, altering how your brain responds to pain. Acetaminophen serves as a fever reducer and non-opioid pain reliever. This combination of ingredients can bring relief to those dealing with chronic pain and help them relax.
Dangers of Long-Term Vicodin Use
While Vicodin is very effective at relieving pain, it shouldn’t be used on a long-term basis. As an opioid, Vicodin is very addictive. Your body can build up a tolerance to this drug so you need more to feel its effects. You may also crave the euphoric feeling the drug provides. Both scenarios can quickly lead to an addiction that’s difficult to break.
Unfortunately, some people don’t realize they’ve become dependent on Vicodin until they try to stop using it. This type of addiction can disrupt a person’s finances, employment and relationships and even lead to legal trouble.
Addiction isn’t the only danger of taking Vicodin on a long-term basis. There are several health concerns you should consider, including liver damage, abdominal pain and breathing issues.
Misuse of Vicodin can potentially lead to an overdose and death. Signs of a Vicodin overdose include altered speech, confusion, headaches, labored breathing and seizures. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact emergency services immediately.
Challenges of Vicodin Withdrawal
Since Vicodin is a highly addictive drug, you may experience various withdrawal effects if you try to stop using it. These symptoms can be quite significant, especially if you quit taking Vicodin suddenly. However, depending on your addiction level and other factors, rapid detox is often the best way to cleanse your body of the drug.
Detoxing from any opioid, including Vicodin, typically isn’t pleasant, but it’s the first step toward recovery. As the opioid exits your body, you may experience intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Insomnia
- Runny nose
- Sweating
- Abdominal pain
- Muscle spasms
- Increased blood pressure
- Goosebumps
- Fever
- Chills
- Agitation
- Restlessness
You may start to experience withdrawal symptoms in as little as 6 to 12 hours after you stop taking Vicodin. Over time, the severity of the symptoms may start to subside, but they could continue for up to 7 days after your last use. Some people complain of long-term side effects, such as anxiety and insomnia, lasting for several weeks or months.
The potential for serious withdrawal side effects make it critical to detox from Vicodin in a safe environment and under the supervision of a trained professional. A Vicodin rehab treatment center can help you with the detox process, ensure you stay safe and guide you on the next steps toward recovery. Be sure to talk to your physician about any short- or long-term side effects you’re experiencing.
Treatment Options for Vicodin Abuse
If you or someone you love is addicted to Vicodin, it’s important to realize you’re not alone. Help is available.
Inpatient Vicodin Treatment
Often, the first step is to receive inpatient treatment. This option provides intensive group and individual therapy as well as mental health counseling if necessary.
Trained professionals work directly with you to create an individualized treatment plan based on your specific needs, addiction level and other factors. Inpatient treatment also removes you from any distractions in your personal life and allows you to focus solely on recovery. Inpatient rehab generally lasts from 28 to 90 days, depending on your situation.
Outpatient Vicodin Treatment
Prior to completing your inpatient Vicodin rehab program, your care team will develop an aftercare treatment plan. This typically includes outpatient therapy with a counselor who can continue your treatment. If necessary, a partial hospitalization program may be recommended. This treatment plan requires you to spend part of your day in an intensive therapy setting but allows you to return to your home in the evenings.
When to Call the Vicodin Addiction Hotline
If you’re struggling with an addiction to Vicodin or having difficulty weaning off this drug, don’t wait to get assistance. The sooner you seek out Vicodin addiction help, the faster you can break free from dependency.
Whether you’re facing a Vicodin-related crisis or you’re ready to take the first step in your recovery, the National Rehab Hotline can help. Our trained specialists can connect you with local resources and treatment centers to help you find the most appropriate recovery options for your situation. Don’t wait another day. Call for free and confidential assistance any time of the day or night.