What Is Vicodin?

Oct 2019 What Is Vicodin?

What Is Vicodin?

Whether a doctor has prescribed Vicodin to you or you’re curious about a loved one’s Vicodin use, it’s essential to know the positives and negatives of the drug. While Vicodin does have a therapeutic method, it’s easily abused. Many people find that Vicodin addiction sneaks upon them. They follow their doctor’s recommendations, then discover that they’re taking more than they expected. If this describes you or a loved one, it’s essential to find a quality opioid addiction rehab center. At Phoenix Rising, we’re here to help our clients find the renewal and rest they need to live a life free from addiction. 

How Does Vicodin Work?

If your doctor has recently prescribed an opioid painkiller, you may be wondering, “What is Vicodin?” It’s essential to understand how the drug works to know how it can be addictive. Vicodin is a commonly prescribed pain reliever, often used to relieve pain after surgery. The drug is a combination of hydrocodone (an opioid) and acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol). Most doctors prescribe Vicodin to be taken once every four to six hours, depending on pain levels. 

People who use Vicodin report that they feel a sense of euphoria, a lessening of anxiety, and an increased desire to be social. Like many drugs, people who take Vicodin quickly build up a tolerance. They need more and more of the drug to get the same effect as they got during the first use. This is especially common in people who are attempting to use the drug to relieve pain solely. They find that the drug did a great job of reducing strain on the first dose. The effect lessens with each dosage, making the person want to use more and more of the drug to relieve the pain. This can quickly spiral into addiction, even if the person is careful. 

Side Effects Of Vicodin

If you’re wondering, “What is Vicodin?” it’s likely that you’ve heard about some of the negative effects of the drug. Side effects of Vicodin use/ abuse can include:

  • Slowed heart and respiratory rates
  • Euphoria, relaxed/ calm feeling
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Drowsy/ dizzy feeling
  • Aches, cramps, nausea, and vomiting

Vicodin And Addiction

The side effects of Vicodin use differ greatly from person to person, depending on the dose taken and the body’s tolerance to the drug. One of the hallmark signs of Vicodin addiction or dependence is withdrawal symptoms when the drug starts to wear off. These may include headaches, stomaches, tremors, and an intense craving for more of the drug. For many people, the only thing that seems to relieve withdrawal symptoms is more Vicodin. As their tolerance level increases, so does the amount of Vicodin they need to function. This can result in a disastrous cycle of addiction. 

Need Help? Phoenix Rising Can Help You Find Renewal And Recovery

Now that you’ve answered the question, “What is Vicodin?” you may have a better idea of whether you or a loved one need help. We understand what it’s like to be addicted to Vicodin, and we know that it can be hard to reach out for help. If you or someone you love wants to stop Vicodin use but aren’t sure where to start, Phoenix Rising is here to help. Addiction can be a complicated disease. Many people find that their addiction is related to trauma, unresolved issues, anxiety, and other normal mental health struggles. 

At Phoenix Rising, we offer several treatment programs, including:

Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program

Trauma-Informed Care

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Program

Family Therapy Program

Psychotherapy for Addiction

No matter what has led you to this point in your life, you are worth saving. We are here to help you explore renewal, recovery, and a sober lifestyle. Call Phoenix Rising today at 8552328211 to talk with one of our caring counselors about giving your life the new start it deserves.