Vicodin Addiction – Vicodin is an opioid medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of pain. Unfortunately, it also has a high potential for abuse and dependence. Harmony Recovery is a specialized treatment center that offers support for those seeking to overcome Vicodin addiction. Although recovery may be challenging, with the right resources and professional help, it is entirely possible.
What Is Vicodin?
Vicodin is an opioid medication that consists of a combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone. Together, these substances can be very effective at relieving pain.
When used as directed and for a brief period, Vicodin can improve a person’s comfort and quality of life.
If you are dependent on Vicodin, you are not alone. Millions of people in the U.S. suffer from an addiction Vicodin and other opioids. Vicodin may be abused for a few different reasons. Often, people with a legitimate prescription for Vicodin experience an increase in tolerance over time. This effect means that they need to use larger amounts to achieve pain relief.
However, some people also misuse the drug for its ability to induce feelings of relaxation and euphoria. Others buy Vicodin illicitly from dealers because they suffer from chronic pain, but are unable to obtain their own prescription.
But any short-term effects that a person feels are positive will ultimately be overshadowed by the adverse effects of abuse. Even in the short term, Vicodin can result in slowed breathing, constipation, impaired judgment, and loss of consciousness.
Using it in an excessive amount can lead to an overdose, which can be life-threatening. Also, chronic use can result in addiction, an increase in the overall perception of pain, and a myriad of other health complications.
Vicodin Addiction: Recovery Timeline
Once you’ve developed an addiction to Vicodin, recovery will take time. There’s no miracle cure or instant fix for this problem. The recovery timeline starts with withdrawal. A medically-supervised environment is advised as it allows people to withdraw safely. It also prevents relapse and represents a person’s willingness to commit to a positive change.
Detox can last for several days. Following this process, patients enter long-term treatment for drug addiction. This treatment consists of several therapeutic modalities, including, but not limited to, the following:
- Psychotherapy
- Individual and family counseling
- Group support
- Medication-assisted therapy
- Health and wellness
- Aftercare planning
During rehab, a patient is encouraged to uncover the underlying reasons why they began abusing Vicodin in the first. In addition to medical reasons, many people have mental illness and use substances as a means to self-medicate.
Following rehab, recovery is still ongoing. Patients will likely need continual support in the form of counseling and peer groups. Long-term sobriety occurs on a day to day basis and is not something that can be achieved and then neglected. Those in recovery need to take care of themselves and be mindful of their sobriety for the rest of their lives.
Preparing for Vicodin Withdrawal
Many people avoid addiction treatment because they are dreading withdrawal. Vicodin withdrawal can be very unpleasant, and unaddressed symptoms can become severe. Fortunately, medical supervision can increase the safety of detox and reduce pain and discomfort.
During the withdrawal process, patients can expect a variety of side effects. These effects can include the following:
- Runny nose
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
Under medical supervision, many of these symptoms can be relieved using medication-assisted treatment.
It’s also possible to temporarily experience rebound pain. Because Vicodin alters the way the body responds to and feels pain, withdrawal can be extraordinarily uncomfortable. Fortunately, this renewed sensitivity to pain is temporary, and there are many healthier ways to address pain management moving forward.
The Full Spectrum of Care for Recovery
Recovery is about so much more than just achieving abstinence. It’s also about learning how to maintain a sober lifestyle for years to come—and, hopefully, the rest of your life. The full spectrum of care begins with detox and continues with comprehensive treatment, relapse prevention, and improved approaches to pain management.
Moreover, relapse happens to more than half of all patients who receive treatment. Relapse prevention is a primary focus, as all patients learn coping mechanisms and techniques to reduce cravings.
Patients are also taught that relapse should not be considered the ultimate failure. On the contrary, relapse is often a part of the recovery process. Relapse presents the opportunity for a learning experience that teaches people how to avoid making the same mistakes again and again.
For some, pain management programs may also be a vital part of recovery. This fact is especially important for those who initially began using Vicodin for the treatment of chronic pain.
Overcoming Vicodin Addiction
Whether you opt for partial-hospitalization or outpatient programs, Harmony Recovery Center can help you through the recovery process.
Vicodin addiction can be debilitating, but it’s not irreversible. People who receive professional help are better equipped to overcome addiction for life! Contact us today to find out how we can help!