Recognizing Vicodin Addiction
Vicodin is a prescription-only opioid pain reliever and is classified as a Schedule II drug. It has a high potential for abuse and can result in debilitating psychological or physical dependence. There is a fine line in the transition from intended relief to Vicodin addiction.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V (DSM-V) provided an outline of Vicodin addiction warning signs. If a person meets two or more of the 11 criteria below within a year, they may have a substance use disorder. Meeting two or three of the criteria is considered a mild case; meeting four to five is deemed moderate; meeting six or more is considered severe. The list of criteria is as follows:
- Taking Vicodin in larger than the prescribed amounts or for longer than the prescribed time
- Expressing the desire to cut down or stop using Vicodin, but not actually doing so
- Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from use of Vicodin
- Cravings and urges to use Vicodin
- Not managing to fulfill tasks at work, home, or school because of Vicodin use
- Continuing to use Vicodin, even when it is the clear cause of problems in relationships
- Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of Vicodin use
- Using Vicodin again and again, even when it creates a dangerous situation
- Continuing to use Vicodin, even while recognizing physical or psychological problems that could have been caused or made worse by Vicodin
- Needing more Vicodin to get the same effect of the prescribed dosage (tolerance)
- Development of withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by taking more Vicodin
Signs and Symptoms of Vicodin Addiction
There are a few different behavioral tendencies that result from Vicodin addiction. The most prevalent include:
Uncontrollable Drowsiness
A sudden tendency to “nod off” in the middle of a conversation or in the middle of doing something can be an early sign of addiction. Often, the user will insist that they are “just tired” and get irritated with any mention of potential dependence on the Vicodin they’ve been taking.
Obsession With Vicodin
The user may become compulsive about having access to Vicodin, being overly concerned with obtaining more, maintaining their current supply, and planning out the times to take it and how much. At this point, the user likely feels the need to reach for Vicodin in moments of stress or anxiety.
Heightened Side Effects
Using Vicodin within its prescribed doses commonly comes with a few mild side effects that dissipate as the body adjusts. If dependence is developed that grows into an addiction, the user will exceed the prescribed dosage and experience side effects that are more severe and persisting.
Obtaining Vicodin Fraudulently
Vicodin tolerance can develop swiftly, leading the user to require larger doses to attain the initial euphoric and relieving sensations the medication once delivered. When doctors refuse to increase dosages due to safety concerns, some individuals might resort to doctor-shopping to acquire additional prescriptions or even go to the extent of forging prescriptions. This escalation in usage and behavior can be dangerous, making it crucial for individuals to seek appropriate interventions like the 12 step recovery for rehab. The 12 step program provides a structured approach to addiction recovery, emphasizing personal responsibility, spiritual growth, and community support, and can be an invaluable resource for those looking to break free from the cycle of addiction.
The common side effects from exceeding the prescribed dosage include:
- paranoia
- anxiety
- incoherent sedation
- extreme mood swings
- dozing off or passing out altogether
- nausea and vomiting
- inability to focus during conversation or a task
- liver damage
Vicodin Withdrawal Symptoms
When a Vicodin addiction occurs and the user attempts to stop abruptly, they can experience numerous issues, including withdrawal. The most prevalent signs of withdrawal include:
- muscle aches
- headaches
- runny nose
- sweating
- shills
- goosebumps
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- anxiety
- extreme mood swings
- depression
- fatigue
- drug cravings
Vicodin Addiction Treatment at Muse
Often, addiction is rooted in a deeper issue, such as past trauma or extreme anxiety. At Muse Treatment in Los Angeles, patients can expect a holistic approach to their rehab and recovery. We provide a dual diagnosis treatment, addressing both the psychological and physical implications of dependency on the drug. Our center in Los Angeles provides a place of refuge and feeling of being home while away from any temptations and with access to medicinal help to cope with withdrawal pains.
If you or a loved one have developed a dependency or addiction to Vicodin, contact Muse Treatment today at 800-426-1818 to learn more and take the first step toward recovery.
