Prescription painkillers such as Vicodin have helped countless people enjoy improved quality of life. But those who use this medication need to understand that they may be at risk for an array of potential side effects, including the development of Vicodin addiction.
What is Vicodin?
Vicodin is the brand name of a prescription medication that is usually used to treat moderate to severe pain. Vicodin has two active ingredients:
- Hydrocodone, which is an opioid that was first synthesized in 1920 and first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1943.
- Acetaminophen, which is a mild pain reliever and cough suppressant that is included in many over-the-counter and prescription medications.
Since 2014, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has classified Vicodin and other prescription medications that contain hydrocodone as Schedule II controlled substances.
Is Vicodin Addictive?
Since Vicodin contains hydrocodone, it poses a high risk for both abuse and addiction.
People who use opioid-based medications such as Vicodin may become addicted even if they follow the advice of the physician who prescribed them. When someone abuses Vicodin, the risk of addiction and other long-term harm only increases.
Once someone develops Vicodin addiction, they may need professional help to stop using this powerful substance. Thankfully, when people get the care they need, they can learn to manage their compulsions and achieve a Vicodin-free future.
Signs and Symptoms of Vicodin Addiction
The following signs and symptoms may indicate that someone is struggling with Vicodin addiction:
- Taking Vicodin for a longer period of time or at a greater dosage level than directed by the prescribing physician
- Trying to buy, borrow, or steal Vicodin that was prescribed to someone else
- Visiting multiple doctors and lying about symptoms in order to get additional prescriptions for Vicodin
- Exhibiting significant changes in mood, attitude, and energy level
- Frequently appearing to be drowsy, confused, disoriented, and/or physically unstable
- Using Vicodin in ways that are clearly hazardous, such as combining it with alcohol or other drugs
- No longer participating in activities or hobbies that used to be very important to them
- Lying or being otherwise deceptive regarding their whereabouts and activities
- Failing to meet their responsibilities at home, in school, or at work
- Becoming agitated or angry when they can’t acquire and use Vicodin
- Trying to stop using Vicodin, but being unable to do so
Dangers of Vicodin Addiction
Untreated Vicodin addiction can have a negative impact on a person’s physical, emotional, and social well-being. The following are just a few of the many potential dangers that can result from compulsive Vicodin abuse:
- Poor performance in school or at work
- Academic failure
- Job loss and long-term unemployment
- Financial problems
- Physical injuries due to slips, falls, car accidents, or other impaired behaviors
- Medical problems such as respiratory distress or liver damage
- Developing a co-occurring mental health disorder
- Being arrested and jailed
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Overdose
- Death
To underscore the danger, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has reported that overdoses involving Vicodin and other prescription opioids were responsible for more than 16,000 deaths in the United States in 2021 alone.
Benefits of Going to Rehab for Vicodin Addiction
Vicodin addiction is a treatable condition. But there is no one-size-fits all approach that guarantees success. If you are seeking help, it’s important to explore your options to find the program that best fits your specific needs.
Types of Addiction Treatment Programs for Vicodin Addiction
- Detoxification: This is a short-term program that can help you get through Vicodin withdrawal safely and with as little discomfort as possible.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Certain prescription medications can ease the symptoms of Vicodin withdrawal, so you can stop using the drug without developing powerful cravings and other forms of distress.
- Residential addiction treatment: In a residential program, you will be in a safe, drug-free environment where you can benefit from round-the-clock care and supervision. Residential programs offer the opportunity to temporarily step away from the distractions and stressors of daily life, so you can put your full focus on your treatment and your health.
- Partial hospitalization program (PHP): At the PHP level, you can take part in full days of treatment for Vicodin addiction without being required to live at the facility. When the PHP is not in session, you can spend time at home or in an alternative supported residence.
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP): While you are in an IOP, you will most likely take part in a few hours of treatment a few days each week. During non-treatment hours, you will have many chances to practice your recovery skills in real-world situations, such as by working part-time, taking classes, or volunteering.
- Outpatient treatment: This is the most flexible level, and it can be a valuable source of ongoing support as you progress in your recovery from Vicodin addiction. You may take part in outpatient sessions on a weekly or monthly basis, or at another frequency that’s right for you.
Some people only take part in one type of treatment for Vicodin addiction, while others spend time at multiple levels of care. Your treatment team can help you determine which path is best for you.
Contact Our Addiction Treatment Center in Palm Springs, California
Phoenix Rising Recovery is a trusted provider of customized addiction treatment services for adults in the Palm Springs area.
In addition to our residential and outpatient options, we also offer gender-specific programs for men and women as well as specialized care for first responders and young adults. When you choose Phoenix Rising Recovery, you can rest assured that you will receive personalized treatment and compassionate support from a team of skilled professionals.
To learn more about how we can help you, or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact Us page or call us today.