Vicodin is a prescription painkiller that’s classified as an opioid. It includes hydrocodone, which is the actual opioid component, as well as paracetamol, which is also known as acetaminophen. Hydrocodone changes how the person taking the drug perceives pain, and it can increase pain tolerance. The opioid epidemic impacting the nation has been front in center in Colorado, and one of the drugs that’s part of this battle is Vicodin. Vicodin is one of the more recognized and well-known prescription opioids combining hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Like the other drugs in its class, as an opioid, hydrocodone works on cells in your brain and your spinal cord that are known as opioid receptors.

Risks Of Concomitant Use Or Discontinuation Of Cytochrome P450 3A4 Inhibitors And Inducers

• This binding action alters the perception of pain and the emotional response to pain, providing relief to the individual.
• There are addiction resources that you can turn to locally and nationally, whether you’re in Boulder, Denver, Colorado Springs, or elsewhere in Colorado and ready to make a change.
• Due to the pleasant effects that can result from the use of Vicodin, many people find that they begin to use the substance in greater quantities or in higher dosages than they were originally prescribed.
• Taking hydrocodone/acetaminophen can worsen breathing problems or lead to death.
• The drug interactions listed above are not all of the possible interactions or adverse effects.

Pinpoint pupils are a sign of opioid overdose butare not pathognomonic (e.g., pontine lesions of hemorrhagic or ischemic origins may produce similarfindings). Marked mydriasis rather than miosis may be seen due to hypoxia in overdose situations. Hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen are available in tablet form for oral administration. The usual dose for adults is 1 to 2 tablets or capsules every 4 to 6 hours as needed.

Uses and Vicodin Dosages

• If a person experiences seizures, it’s crucial to call emergency medical services immediately.
• If unacceptable opioidrelatedadverse reactions are observed, consider reducing the dosage.
• Many people who develop an addiction to Vicodin may not realize they have a problem until they attempt to stop or reduce their dosage and experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.
• Do not use with any other drug containing acetaminophen without asking your doctor or pharmacist first.
• Infants born to mothers physically dependent on opioids will also be physically dependent and mayexhibit respiratory difficulties and withdrawal signs see PRECAUTIONS; Pregnancy.

It may slightly increase the risk of birth defects if used during the first two months of pregnancy. Also, using it for a long time or in high doses near the expected delivery date may harm the unborn baby. To lessen the risk, take the smallest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Babies born to mothers who use this drug for a long time may develop severe (possibly fatal) withdrawal symptoms. Tell the doctor right away if you notice any symptoms in your newborn baby such as crying that doesn’t stop, slow/shallow breathing, irritability, shaking, vomiting, diarrhea, poor feeding, or difficulty gaining weight.

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At first, the addictive potential of opioids like Vicodin was not clearly understood. Vicodin, in fact, used to be a Schedule III controlled substance and was not made a Schedule II controlled substance until 2014. Even now, some doctors may prescribe more Vicodin than a person needs to ensure that pain is well-controlled. To combat possible overprescription, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has developed guidelines about when it is appropriate for doctors to prescribe opioids. If someone chooses to treat their addiction, working with medical professionals will allow them to analyze the patient’s situation to determine the best way to wean them off the drug.

Many people find that they have to take more to experience the desired effects, which may lead to physical dependence and potentially addiction. Chronic Vicodin use sets in motion a cascade of neurochemical adaptations, leading to physiological dependence. Hydrocodone, the opioid component of Vicodin, binds to mu-opioid what is alcoholism receptors, triggering a surge of dopamine and reinforcing the addictive cycle.

Symptoms

Hydrocodone/acetaminophen has a risk for abuse and addiction, which can lead to overdose and death. Hydrocodone/acetaminophen may also cause severe, possibly fatal, breathing problems. To lower your risk, your doctor should have you take the smallest dose of hydrocodone/acetaminophen that works, and take it for the shortest possible time. It is very important that you understand the rules of the Opioid Analgesic REMS program to prevent addiction, abuse, and misuse of hydrocodone and acetaminophen combination. This medicine should also come with a Medication Guide and patient information leaflet.

Anticholinergic Drugs

Like Osbourne, the proper treatment tools can make all the difference when obtaining a drug-free life. Therapy helps individuals recognize and correct negative thought patterns that can contribute to their addictive behaviors and help create healthier habits and lifestyles for successful, long-term recovery. If you find yourself taking hydrocodone for longer than prescribed or taking it in larger doses despite any negative consequences, you may have an addiction. Your doctor may have you reduce your use slowly rather than stopping it suddenly.

Detoxification from Vicodin marks the initial step toward recovery for individuals grappling with addiction. The process involves managing withdrawal symptoms that arise when Vicodin use is reduced or stopped. This involves using FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine, methadone, or naltrexone to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Holistic therapies, such as mindfulness, yoga, and art therapy, may complement these treatments by promoting overall well-being. Fortunately, they can help manage addiction and withdrawal symptoms, offering a path toward recovery. Understanding the psychological impact of Vicodin addiction is a vital step in the recovery process, enabling healthcare providers to offer targeted interventions and support.

• As the list above demonstrates, genetic, environmental and psychological factors work together to contribute to an increased likelihood of addiction.
• Inpatient residential treatment at our Pennsylvania drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility includes access to individual, group, and family therapy designed to build the foundation for lasting sobriety.
• The signs of a Vicodin overdose related to acetaminophen can include dark urine or trouble urinating, abdominal pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and ultimately it can lead to liver failure.
• Vicodin is composed of the synthetic opiate hydrocodone and acetaminophen, as both of these pain killers work together to reduce pain when used in tandem.
• The impact is so instant that you may not even realise how and when your body became dependent on the drug.

Treatment to Seek for Vicodin Addiction

In other words, the affected person does not feel pain after consuming this pain relief. At the same time, acetaminophen helps hydrocodone to relieve pain and reduce fever. Carefully check the labels of all other medicines you are using, because they may also contain acetaminophen. It is not safe to use more than 4 grams (4,000 milligrams) of acetaminophen in one day (24 hours), as this may increase the risk for serious liver problems. For patients who have a liver condition, the daily maximum limit for acetaminophen use may be lower than 4 grams.

Adjust the dosage to obtain anappropriate balance between management of pain and opioid-related adverse reactions. There is inter-patient variability in the potency of opioid drugs and opioid formulations. Therefore, aconservative approach is advised when determining the total daily dosage of vicodin addiction hydrocodone bitartrate andacetaminophen tablets. Serious , life-threatening, or fatal respiratory depression may occur with use of hydrocodonebitartrate and acetaminophen tablets . Monitor for respiratory depression especially during initiation of hydrocodonebitartrate and acetaminophen tablets or following a dose increase see WARNINGS. Effective strategies for Vicodin addiction recovery involve comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs.