Addiction Treatment

Vicodin addiction

Vicodin is the brand name for the combination of acetaminophen (Tylenol) and hydrocodone. Other well known brand names of Vicodin are: Anexsia, Anolor DH5, Bancap HC, Co-Gesic, Dolacet,Hydrocet, Lorcet 10/650, Lortab, Maxidone, Norco, T-Gesic, Vicodin, Zydone. Vicodin is one of the drugs from the group of narcotic pain relievers. It is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form. Vicodin is a pain killer which is most commonly prescribed for persons experiencing pain after surgery or intense pain. When taken as prescribed, Vicodin can promote relaxation and calm to the patient, thus enabling him to fully recover from his condition or injury. Like most drugs, Vicodin can lead to some side effects which include drowsiness, weak breathing, weakness, unusual fatigue, vomiting, decreased appetite, and constipation.

Vicodin Addiction

Vicodin use causes a chemical reaction in the brain to dull the opiate receptors in your brain to limit pain. Chronic use of vicodin can result in tolerance to the medications so that higher doses must be taken to obtain the same initial effects. If you take this drug over a long period of time, you can become mentally and physically dependent on it, and you may find the drug no longer works for you at the prescribed dosage. Individuals who become addicted to vicodin can be treated. Patient is medically detoxified before any treatment approach is begun. Withdrawal symptoms are expressed while the patient is in the process of adjusting to being drug free. Once the detoxification is completed, the treatment provider will work with the patient to determine the suitable course of treatment.

Vicodin Addiction Symptoms

Vicodin addiction symptoms can be quite similar to heroin abuse. In the same way, deciding to stop the addiction can lead to difficult withdrawal symptoms such as physical bone and muscle pain, restlessness, insomnia, vomiting, involuntary leg movements, diarrhea, loss of appetite, irritability, nausea, sweating, chills and cold flashes.

Vicodin Side effects

Taking a large single dose usually leads to an overdose, the amount of which depends on the patient’s tolerance to the drug. Symptoms of a Vicodin overdose, which may lead to death, may include slow breathing, cold and clammy skin, dizziness, weakness, loss of consciousness, confusion, tiredness, coma, nausea, vomiting, and sweating. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.

Precaution

You should take Vicodin exactly as prescribed. Do not take Vicodin with alcohol, other narcotic pain medications, sedatives, tranquilizers, muscle relaxers, or other medicines that can make you sleepy or slow your breathing. Dangerous side effects may result.