This article will cover what hydrocodone is, how it’s used, the effects it can cause, and how you or your loved one can get treatment for hydrocodone addiction. Kristen Fuller, M.D., enjoys writing about evidence-based topics in the cutting-edge world of mental health and addiction medicine and contributes to medicine board education. To prevent this, your doctor may direct you or your child to take laxatives, drink a lot of fluids, or increase the amount of fiber in your diet.
The acetaminophen in Vicodin, particularly when taken in large quantities, can lead to nephrotoxicity, which is toxic damage to the kidneys. This can impair kidney function, leading to chronic kidney disease or even kidney failure over time. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction to hydrocodone, now is the time to get help. When the body is unable to process all of the opioids in its system, breathing and heart rates can plummet. In just a few minutes, someone overdosing on hydrocodone may stop breathing, depriving their brains of oxygen (also known as hypoxia).

A doctor prescribes it for surgery or a painful injury and at first, it works as intended. But as the weeks pass, you may find you need a little more to get the same relief, so you start increasing your dose. Vicodin is the most common brand name for a heavy-hitting pain reliever made from a mixture of hydrocodone (a powerful opioid) and paracetamol.
Discover affordable rehab centers near you, offering easy access and convenience. Whether you or someone you know is struggling with Vicodin addiction, this article aims to provide valuable information and resources to help navigate this challenging issue. By clicking “Submit,” you certify that you have provided your legal name and phone number, agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy, and authorise Paid Advertiser to contact you. You consent to receive SMS notifications and promotions from Paid Advertiser.

Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine. There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding. Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking, who can advise you on any possible drug interactions.

As a Schedule II controlled substance, Vicodin has a high risk of being misused. Misusers can quickly become dependent on it, paving the way for addiction to develop. vicodin addiction If an individual feels that Vicodin is essential to function during everyday life, an addiction may have developed.
Many people who are dependent on Vicodin continue to take it just to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Unfortunately, Vicodin dependence can develop into addiction if left untreated. Opioid addiction is characterized by a loss of control over opioid use; people addicted to Vicodin continue to take it even when it wreaks havoc on their personal and professional lives. Unfortunately, many people start taking Vicodin more frequently or in larger doses than prescribed once their usual dose loses effectiveness.
Here are a few physical and behavioral symptoms to look out for in case of potential opiate abuse. Hydrocodone as a main component of Vicodin acts by activating special receptors found in the brain called mu-opioid receptors. Founded in 2014, Addiction Resource provides free support and guidance for addiction recovery.
These programmes can be inpatient or outpatient and focus on understanding the root causes of addiction, developing coping strategies and rebuilding a healthy lifestyle. The effects of Vicodin, when taken as prescribed marijuana addiction and under extremely strict medical supervision, can be highly beneficial. Patients often report significant pain reduction, which can improve quality of life, particularly for those dealing with chronic pain conditions. Those who haven’t been addicted for as long or as drastically can go on a rapid detox program, which is completed in hours under the influence of anesthesia. However, these patients are still encouraged to contact medical professionals, keeping them updated on their progress after the treatment. This process allows patients to avoid most of the negative symptoms of withdrawal due to anesthesia.