Drug Addiction - Vicodin

Vicodin is an opioid drug and has similar addictive properties to heroin and morphine. Drugs like Vicodin are prescribed to treat people experiencing moderate to high levels of pain. However, in most cases, treatment is not presumed to be long term, primarily due to the addictive nature of the drug. The potential for addiction and abuse is a known property of the drug and many users gain a degree of dependence, often without realizing it. As with any addiction to prescription medication, addicts often view their Vicodin addiction as different from other addicts who may have acquired the very same drug illegally. One problem with addictions to prescription medicines in particular is the lengthy phase of denial that the addict first endures purely because they perceive the drug to be "legitimate", with the concept of addiction not even worthy of consideration. Dependence on an opiate such as Vicodin is both physical and psychological, often stemming from the user's main reason for taking the drug: to relieve pain. Residential treatment programs are seeing huge increases in individuals being treated for Vicodin addiction.

Like many other medications, Vicodin can too produce certain side effects. Gastrointestinal problems like, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and constipation are some of the more commonly observed Vicodin side effects. In addition to these, dizziness, lightheadedness and drowsiness are some other common side effects of Vicodin. The various gastrointestinal problems like nausea and vomiting can be avoided by taking the drug along with food. Vicodin can cause certain serious side effects, which however are less frequent. Such serious Vicodin side effects include, severe drowsiness, severe abdominal pain and constipation, slow heart rate, hyperventilation, hallucinations, altered mental status, confusion, anxiety or fear, unusual fatigue, tinnitus, hearing loss, decreased urination, cold and clammy skin, bluish tinge on the skin, blood disorders, troubled or slow breathing, low blood pressure, kidney problems, seizures and liver failure. Liver failure can cause jaundice, which in turn can produce symptoms like, pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes and dark urine.

Addiction to Vicodin and similar drugs can be so ferocious that withdrawal at any level can be overwhelmingly uncomfortable to the addict. This is one of the many reasons that Vicodin withdrawal is best done in the context of a complete drug treatment program. Hydrocodone produces a calming effect, or a sense of well being. So, it�s only natural that withdrawal from the medication produces the opposite effect. The person will feel agitated, nervous, and restless and be easily startled or excited. One of the most common withdrawal symptoms associated with Vicodin is headaches and body pain. Generally, the pain occurs in the joints and muscles. But, can manifest as back pain and pain in the bones. Most people suffering from Vicodin withdrawal have symptoms similar to the flu or allergies. Their eyes may water excessively and they will have a runny nose. While the person may experience chills, fever and excessive sweating is also a common Vicodin withdrawal symptom. Constipation is a little known side effect of opiates, which means someone trying to get off of Vicodin will almost always develop diarrhea. This is generally accompanied with nausea and vomiting. These symptoms should be treated immediately to avoid dehydration.

If you experience a Vicodin overdose, you may feel extremely tired or confused, or have trouble breathing or moving very quickly. You may experience nausea or vomiting or just feel a general overall feeling of discomfort. If you are with someone who is experiencing a Vicodin overdose, you may notice that their skin is bluish in color or cold and clammy. They may appear to be asleep but be unresponsive when you try to rouse them. Their muscles and limbs may be limp when you shake them. Their breathing will be shallow and low, almost inaudible and their heartbeat may be faint as well.

The only way to not be at risk for a Vicodin overdose is to quit taking the drug. A complete drug treatment program can help an individual that is addicted to Vicodin to be free of the drug. If you or someone you love is addicted to Vicodin, reach out for help today.