These may include doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors to obtain more Vicodin prescriptions), social withdrawal, neglect of responsibilities and uncharacteristic financial problems or spending habits. There may also be an increased secrecy or defensiveness about drug use, whereabouts and possessions. Whether to get high, for pain relief or self-medication, initial Vicodin use is often occasional, in low doses or according to a prescription. However, this can quickly escalate with repeated use, a major risk for anyone not being properly supervised.
Vicodin Abuse
Tramadol is an opioid-like pain medication but has is vicodin addictive additional effects that make it different from most opioids. It is less addictive than Vicodin, though it still has the potential for abuse, and can be used for chronic or long-term pain management. If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as restlessness, watering eyes, runny nose, nausea, sweating, muscle aches). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used this medication for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal.
Vicodin addiction and co-occurring disorders
- 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.
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- You no longer need to run from discomfort—you are strong enough to face any challenge.
- It is this compulsive desire, often in the face of obvious negative consequences, that is the hallmark of Vicodin addiction.
- Medical professionals prescribe the medication to help alleviate pain and make the patient more comfortable.
“I have substance issues, primarily with cocaine. It’s hard to say out loud.” This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another condition unless told to do so by your doctor. This product passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant (such as unusual sleepiness, difficulty feeding, trouble breathing, or unusual limpness). Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medication. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy.
Vicodin Addiction Treatment
- If you or a loved one struggles with a Vicodin substance use disorder, you don’t have to fight the battle alone.
- Some individuals with a hydrocodone addiction have a specific brand they prefer, despite all opioids (including morphine, codeine, and heroin) having similar effects if taken in large enough quantities.
- Doctors aren’t sure why some people develop an opioid use disorder after taking Vicodin.
Withdrawal symptoms for each person will vary, but doctors can prescribe medication to ease the severity of those symptoms. The hydrocodone component of Vicodin is a psychoactive substance impacting the opioid receptors of the brain and spinal cord. Like other opioids, the drug also triggers the brain’s reward system, leading to a flood of the feel-good chemical dopamine when you take a dose.
Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid, typically prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. Unlike natural opiates morphine and codeine, hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid. Generally, doctors may decide to write Alcoholics Anonymous a hydrocodone (brand name Vicodin®) prescription to treat short-term pain following dental surgery or for injury-related pain. However, due to the addictive nature of opioids, regular use of hydrocodone can be habit-forming. Once the body becomes dependent on hydrocodone to feel normal, trying to quit will result in symptoms of hydrocodone withdrawal.
