Vicodin addiction is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. It is essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of Vicodin addiction and to seek help as soon as possible. Atlanta Recovery Center is a Vicodin addiction treatment center in Georgia.

Through the comprehensive programming available at Atlanta Recovery Place, clients can access everything they need to start their recovery journey. Our evidence-based outpatient treatment options allow our clients to work through programs that work for them, their lifestyle, and their growth goals.

Learn more about our Georgia Addiction Recovery Center today.

What is Vicodin?

Vicodin combines two drugs: hydrocodone, an opioid pain reliever, and acetaminophen, a non-opioid pain reliever. Vicodin is prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain and is available in tablet and liquid form. Vicodin is highly addictive and can easily lead to abuse, addiction, and overdose.

The DEA classifies Vicodin as a Schedule II controlled substance, which means it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Vicodin is only available with a prescription from a doctor. People who take Vicodin without a prescription or more than their prescribed dose are at an increased risk of addiction. This misuse also increases the risk of adverse side effects from the medication.

Signs and Symptoms of Vicodin Addiction

Vicodin addiction mimics other opioid addiction habits in that this depressant suppresses the systems in the body, slowing things down. Opioid addiction can impact the body physically as well as have a significant impact on the social structures of an individual’s life.

Vicodin slows down an individual’s bodily function to block the pain receptors in the body, creating a pain-free environment. While this is ideal for individuals in pain, those abusing this drug often just feel the relaxation of their system. This can feel like slowing the heart, breathing, and lowering blood pressure. It can cause individuals to gain weight, have difficulty with bowel movements, and be sluggish in their physical reactions or actions.

As an opioid, Vicodin can also directly impact how individuals respond in social situations. Because of how Vicodin makes the body feel, it can cause individuals to be less responsive to outside stimuli, less likely to participate in activities, and more irresponsible. Individuals addicted to Vicodin, who don’t have a prescription from a doctor, may also fake or sustain real injuries for medication, steal the medicine from others, or transition to another illegally available opioid, like heroin, to achieve the high.

While some of these signs and symptoms are not always initially noticeable, if you see symptoms of Vicodin addiction in yourself or your loved one, it is critical to seek help from a medical professional.

Short- and Long-term Effects of Vicodin Addiction

While taking Vicodin as prescribed before or following a medical procedure is not without risk, individuals who follow directed guidelines from their prescribing doctor are less likely to develop adverse side effects associated with Vicodin use. However, individuals taking too much or stealing the medication run a much higher risk of developing short- and long-term effects from the use.

The short-term effects of Vicodin addiction can include drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, confusion, loss of coordination, slowed breathing, constipation, unconsciousness, respiratory depression, and coma. Vicodin, in the short-term, can also increase the likelihood of exposure to STDs, increase the risk of injury during activities like driving, and increases the risk of exposure to trauma.

Vicodin can cause life-long damage to the brain and body. The drug can cause brain and liver damage, sexual dysfunction, and mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. Through repeated exposure, individuals are at a higher risk of addiction and overdose.

Treatment for Vicodin Addiction

Treatment for Vicodin addiction is readily available for individuals ready to change their lives. Most commonly, Vicodin addiction treatment will include the following aspects – Detoxification, Medication Assisted Treatment, In- or Outpatient treatment, and Support Groups.

Detoxification is the first step in the addiction treatment process. Individuals who go through monitored withdrawal through a facility have more success in treatment. Those who choose to go through withdrawal independently should seek out medical support to ensure safety throughout the process.

Medication Assisted Treatment is commonly used to help individuals seeking treatment for an opioid addiction disorder. Through this process, individuals can receive medication by injection for long-term support or through daily pills. The medication blocks the drug’s euphoric effects and prevents the individual from “feeling high” if they take it.

Inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment is critical to the long-term success of clients struggling with addiction. This combination of evidence-based therapy provides the mental health treatment necessary for individuals struggling with addiction and other mental health disorders.

Lastly, using support groups through addiction treatment offers a community of like-minded individuals focused on creating a better life for themselves through dedicated support. 

Vicodin Addiction Treatment in Georgia

At Atlanta Recovery Place, we work with clients to achieve sobriety through multiple outpatient programs, sober-living opportunities, and medication treatments. We believe in the power of changing a life through holistic treatment programs individualized for clients’ current needs and their future goals.ARP is a Georgia drug and alcohol rehab center. Learn more about Vicodin addiction treatment at Atlanta Recovery Place today.

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