Beach House Center for Recovery offers effective treatment for Vicodin use disorder. Our medical clinicians, addiction care specialists, and psychiatric providers offer in-depth support and compassionate care that delivers exceptional outcomes.
Vicodin addiction is a serious and growing problem that can cause significant physical and mental health issues. Physically, it can cause changes to the body’s organs and systems, as well as an increased risk of infections and diseases. It also increases the risk of overdose and death. Mentally, it can cause depression, anxiety, and mood swings.
Vicodin is also known by the brand names Anexsia, Lorcet, Lortab, Norco, and Xodol.
What is Vicodin?
Vicodin is the brand name for a prescription opioid painkiller containing hydrocodone (a schedule II controlled substance) and acetaminophen (a mild pain reliever and fever-reducer). In large doses, Vicodin causes lethargy, mental impairment, liver damage, and addiction.
Vicodin was invented in the early 1980s. It was developed by the German pharmaceutical company Knoll Pharmaceuticals and was introduced to the United States in 1984. Vicodin was designed for the relief of moderate to moderately severe pain.
Is Vicodin Addictive?
Yes, Vicodin carries a significant risk for abuse. The drug works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which produces a feeling of relaxation and euphoria. This sensation can lead to physical and psychological dependence in individuals who take Vicodin in doses that exceed medical recommendations.
What Is Vicodin Addiction?
Addiction commonly refers to multiple conditions along the spectrum of substance use disorder.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) categorizes substance use disorders as mild, moderate, or severe. Mild substance use disorder involves routine use of illicit substances, whereas moderate or severe substance use disorder can involve physical tolerance to the drug.
Vicodin addiction is a difficult disease to understand. However, Vicodin addiction generally involves an unmanageable urge to use the substance despite negative social, personal, and medical consequences.
Side Effects of Vicodin
There are several effects of Vicodin abuse, including the following:
- Drowsiness and sedation. When taken in high doses, Vicodin can make users excessively sleepy. This reaction can be dangerous, leading to impaired motor and cognitive function.
- Stomach issues and gastrointestinal problems. Digestive symptoms can range from mild to severe, including nausea, vomiting, and constipation. If Vicodin abuse symptoms become severe, seek medical attention.
- Mood changes. Vicodin can make users more anxious, depressed, or irritable. This reaction can lead to changes in behavior and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts.
- Altered physical appearance. Vicodin use can cause skin rashes, hives, and flushing, which might indicate an opioid allergy. Moreover, users can become neglectful of hygiene and grooming.
- Drug tolerance and dependence. Vicodin can make users physically and psychologically dependent on the drug when taken for long periods. Tolerance can lead to cravings and the need to take more of the drug to achieve the same effects.
Vicodin Addiction Signs
Addiction to Vicodin can be difficult to recognize, but certain signs can indicate a problem. If you are addicted to Vicodin, you might exhibit the following Vicodin addiction symptoms:
- Taking Vicodin in higher doses or more frequently than prescribed.If someone has become tolerant to the effects of Vicodin and needs to take more of the drug to experience the same impact, they may have an addiction.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking Vicodin.Withdrawal symptoms can include nausea, fatigue, irritability, and muscle aches.
- Obsession with obtaining Vicodin.Someone with an addiction may go to great lengths to get more of the drug, including illegally acquiring multiple prescriptions.
- Neglecting important responsibilities.People addicted to Vicodin may start to ignore things like work, school, and family to use the drug.
- Experiencing financial, legal, or social problems due to Vicodin use. If a person’s relationships, career, or finances are negatively affected by their Vicodin use, it may be a sign of addiction.
If you or someone you know exhibits any of these Vicodin abuse signs, please seek help. Addiction to Vicodin is a potentially fatal condition and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Beach House Center for Recovery: Compassionate Vicodin Addiction Treatment
At Beach House Center for Recovery, we offer comprehensive therapeutic interventions designed to address multiple facets of Vicodin and opioid addiction. From medically supervised detox to intensive therapy to transitional support, our addiction specialists offer proven, evidence-backed treatments that help patients throughout their recovery journeys.
To learn more about Beach House’s treatment approach, please contact our admissions counselor today.