What is Vicodin and why is it so addictive?
Vicodin is a compound analgesic (painkiller) that is comprised of acetaminophen (found in Tylenol) and hydrocodone (synthetic codeine). Other varieties of Vicodin include Vicodin ES and Vicodin HP but other brand names include Anexsia, Lorcet, and Lortab. It is one of the most widely prescribed painkillers in the US today. Unfortunately, it is one of the most popular substances with recreational drug users and Vicodin addiction has become a serious public health threat.
Vicodin exhibits an extremely high potential for abuse, addiction, and dependency. One of the main characteristics of Vicodin addiction are the tolerances that build up quickly, which increase the risk of dependency. The individual uses higher and higher doses until they feel like they can’t function throughout the day without it. One the addiction progresses to the point of being severe, the individual needs to enter a Vicodin addiction treatment and recovery program before their dependency on the drug becomes life-threatening.
The warning signs of Vicodin addiction
In addition to physical dependency, Vicodin displays a high potential for emotional and psychological dependencies as well. Tolerance build up occurs almost unnoticeably and when the individual finally realizes and admits that they are in trouble, entering a Vicodin addiction rehab program can not happen swiftly enough. This is the primary reason that many older adults and seniors develop a dependency on the drug. They don’t realize that they are becoming increasingly more tolerant of it and getting addicted to it.
If you are concerned about you or a loved one having abuse, addiction, or dependency issues with this medication, you should look for the following warning signs.
- participating in deviant behavior in order to get more of the drug from their doctor or out on the street
- pain of withdrawal and other physical illnesses resulting from discontinuing the use of Vicodin
- feelings of guilt or shame when using the drug
- family members, friends, or loved ones being concerned about your abuse of the drug
- needing increasingly larger doses of Vicodin to achieve the desired euphoric effect or “high” that you initially experienced
If you have noticed that any of the above apply to you or your loved one, you are most likely a candidate for a Vicodin addiction rehab program and professional help.
The time to get help is now
Vicodin addiction is extremely dangerous and should not be ignored. Numerous deaths due to overdose occur every year as well as serious illnesses and side effects of dependency. If you or a loved one is in need of professional help, please contact one of the Freedom Center’s addiction specialists today at the toll-free phone number listed above.
