Prolonged use also leads to tolerance, necessitating higher doses for the same effect. Eventually, prolonged use can lead to physiological dependence, where the body requires the drug to function normally. Due to its effects on the brain, there are several Vicodin drug interactions that can have serious consequences. Whether taking it as prescribed or misusing it recreationally, certain drugs should be avoided when taking Vicodin. Vicodin is an opiate narcotic analgesic that is often prescribed in the United vicodin addiction States to manage moderate to severe pain caused by burns, cancer, migraine headaches, and other pain-related conditions.
- When it comes to Vicodin addiction, the compulsive urge to use the drug persists even when it leads to serious health problems, strained relationships, or trouble at work and home.
- Additionally, the combination can cause drowsiness, dizziness, confusion and slurred speech.
- Individuals who abuse Vicodin over a long period are at an increased risk of developing more severe mental health disorders, such as major depressive disorder or anxiety disorders.
- It isnot known whether these effects on fertility are reversible see ADVERSE REACTIONS.
- Misuse of Vicodin can lead to severe physiological changes in the brain.
Long-term Effects of Vicodin Abuse on the Body
These programs provide one-on-one counseling sessions, group therapy, and other activities to help you recover from addiction. Physical dependence is characterized by the body adapting to the drug over time, requiring more of it to achieve desired effects. This can occur even when you take the medication exactly as prescribed. Hydrocodone works by attaching to specific opioid receptors in the brain and blocking pain signals.
Outpatient Treatment
Preventing Vicodin addiction is only possible by not taking this medication in the first place. If you are suffering from acute or chronic pain, explore non-opioid treatments with your doctor before initiating opioid therapy. If you must take opioids, take them for as little time as possible to minimize the risk of Vicodin dependence. Since Vicodin dependence and addiction develop gradually, most people only realize they’ve become addicted once they encounter distressing opioid withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuing their medication.
Opioid-induce hyperalgesia and allodynia
Addiction is often accompanied by antisocial behavior, which can further complicate personal and professional relationships. People with addiction (severe substance use disorder) have an intense focus on using a certain substance(s), such as alcohol or drugs, to the point that it takes over their life. They keep using alcohol or a drug even when they know it will cause problems. Addiction is characterized by the inability to stop Sobriety using the substance, failure to meet work, social, or family obligations, and, sometimes, engaging in risky behaviors.
