Vicodin

Vicodin is a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen and is a prescription drug that is used in the treatment of pain. The presence of hydrocodone in vicodine makes it narcotic in nature and this is why it is also considered potentially addictive. However, medically it is used quite commonly in the treatment of moderate to severe pain.

Common Side Effects of Vicodin

Vicodin is a generally safe medication to take with proper recommendation and consultation from a doctor. However, just like any other prescription medication it can also have several side effects on the user. The most common side effects include:

• Lightheadedness and Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Vomiting and Nausea
• A condition of extreme sedation
• Constipation
• Spasm of ureter that leads to difficulty in urinating
• Dry throat
• Developing a rash
• In severe cases, vicodine can also lead to impairment to thinking as well physical abilities.

It can also cause difficulty in breathing. This is why extreme care is required when this medication is given to elderly people and to patients suffering from lung diseases as well as debilitated patients.

• Other major side effect that vicodin can have on a person is the danger of causing an addiction or dependence. The opiate nature of the drug (presence of hydrocodone) means that this drug is habit forming and its usage without proper recommendation from a doctor can cause serious dependence and addiction.

Vicodin Abuse Statistics

According to survey reports, vicodin is known to affect million of families each year quite negatively. Statistics from the US Government prove that prescription drugs are the second most widely abused drug in United States (first being marijuana).

Sign of Vicodin Addiction or Dependency

One needs to remember that any prescription drug, if not taken strictly as instructed by the doctor can be as deadly as slow poison. One need to remember that vicodin is a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen which makes it not just highly addictive but the acetaminophen present in the drug can also cause severe liver damage as a result of long time use or abuse.

In case you have fears that a loved one or you yourself have developed a dependency or addiction for vicodin, there are certain signs or symptoms that you can look out for to confirm your fears. These signs include:

• Feeling physically ill or going into withdrawal when not taking vicodin
• Taking more than the prescribed level of medication
• Developing strong cravings and obsession for vicodin
• Illegally obtaining vicodin, like visiting multiple doctors at the same time to obtain prescriptions for vicodin
• Developing a high tolerance for the drug
• Isolating oneself from friends and relatives

Vicodin Addiction Recovery

When you look at these signs of drug addiction and if even one of these sounds familiar, then it is time you realize that professional help is needed. Remember that only the right vicodin treatment program can help you escape the cloud of addiction and get on to the road of recovery as well.

If you have a loved one who needs immediate help for the treatment of vicodin abuse than we can help you in choosing the best addiction recovery program for your needs. We are available 24/7 to take your call.