Vicodin Addiction | Signs, Symptoms & Effects

Like most opioids, these risks have seen the drug strictly controlled in many countries, including the UK, where it is less commonly prescribed than other painkillers, which are deemed to be safer.

Other common Vicodin side effects include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Lightheadedness

Vicodin addiction can take hold when someone begins to depend heavily on the medication, even if it’s causing harm. This dependence can start subtly and grow over time, making it hard to break free from the drug.

Vicodin addiction stories usually start with being prescribed Vicodin after surgery or a serious injury left you with severe pain. At first, taking the medication helps you manage that pain effectively, allowing you to get on with your daily life. However, as days turn into weeks, you find that the same dose no longer provides the same relief. You start taking more, thinking it’s necessary to cope with your discomfort.

As the weeks pass, you begin to realise that you’re taking Vicodin not just for the pain, but to feel good or to deal with everyday stress. When you miss a dose, you feel uneasy, anxious and even sick, which is your body craving the drug.

Your life starts to revolve around ensuring you have enough Vicodin. You might visit multiple doctors to get extra prescriptions or even start buying it illegally. As Vicodin addiction takes hold, your daily routine, relationships and responsibilities start to suffer because getting and using Vicodin becomes your only priority.

The way opioids like Vicodin affect your body and mind gives them the inherent potential to cause a physical dependency. However, people who go on to develop a full-blown Vicodin addiction usually have certain personal issues that create an emotional and psychological dependency, too. Some of these issues include:

A family history of substance abuse disorders

Your genes can play a big part in how your body reacts to drugs like Vicodin so if addiction runs in your family, you might be more likely to get addicted yourself.

Mental health issues

If you already have anxiety, depression or other mental health problems, you might turn to Vicodin to feel better which can lead to a physical and emotional reliance on Vicodin.

A high-stress lifestyle

If you have a lot of stress or have been through tough times, you might use Vicodin to help you relax. This can make you more likely to get addicted to Vicodin as you come to rely on it to feel calm and handle stress.

A risk-taking personality

If you like taking risks or acting on impulse, you might be more likely to misuse Vicodin. This can make it easier to get addicted as you take it more often or in higher doses than it is designed to be.

Environment and social influences

Peer pressure, easy access to Vicodin. and not having any parental support when you are young can all increase your chances of drug use and addiction.

Vicodin addiction can have a serious impact on your life in many ways. Here are some of the biggest impacts you need to recognise:

Effective Vicodin addiction treatment starts with a medically planned detox, which provides you with a safe environment to rid your body of the drug. After that, opioid rehab includes tailored therapy sessions, peer support and activities that promote healing and self-discovery. To ensure lasting recovery, you should look for a programme that provides aftercare services and relapse prevention plans. These will offer the tools and support needed to navigate life without relying on Vicodin.

If Vicodin addiction has turned your life upside down, Linwood House is ready to help you break free. Our compassionate team is dedicated to supporting your recovery every step of the way. Get in touch with us now to learn how our specialised treatment programmes can help you overcome Vicodin addiction and reclaim your life.