Vicodin is a common pain medication that helps to reduce moderate to severe pain. Vicodin, or hydrocodone, is a controlled substance used by physicians and other types of medical professionals to ensure that patients are recovering from surgeries and other painful procedures. So, is Vicodin an opioid?
In short, yes. Vicodin is a type of opioid that can be used recreationally if an addict or user is able to obtain the drug. The recreational uses of Vicodin can be extremely debilitating since it is a powerful opiate.
Most individuals may not realize that using Vicodin outside of its recommended dosage can lead to opioid dependence and addiction if they are not careful. This is when they will need to find a Vicodin detox program in Ft Lauderdale to get their life back on track.
So, what should patients understand about Vicodin and how it affects the brain?
Is Vicodin an Opioid?
Vicodin is an opioid-based painkiller that contains other non-opioid substances to help reduce pain. Many patients get confused about what Vicodin exactly is because it is a compound medication.
The hydrocodone in Vicodin is an opioid that initiates a change in the brain about how your body responds and feels pain. A second part of the drug called acetaminophen acts to reduce fever and other painful symptoms. Medical experts don’t recommend the use of the drug by patients under the age of six years old.
Vicodin dosages are based on a patient’s weight where heavier patients need more of the drug in order to feel the effects. Patients that change their dosage may experience too much of an effect or no effect at all, depending upon their current weight.
The medication is designed to address ongoing pain and can lead to withdrawals if patients suddenly quit. A doctor will slowly reduce dosages over time to avoid withdrawals.
What Happens to the Body When You Use Vicodin Recreationally?
When you use Vicodin recreationally with irresponsibly high dosages, your body and brain can experience debilitating side effects. As mentioned earlier, Vicodin needs to be managed by a medical professional to help gradually stop withdrawals. When used recreationally, patients may experience intense withdrawals if their supply runs out from consistent consumption.
A few physical side effects of Vicodin withdrawal include:
- Severe anxiety
- Restlessness or trouble sleeping
- Runny nose and watering eyes
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Depression/thoughts of suicide
- Nausea and diarrhea
In addition, withdrawals and the potency of Vicodin can lead to drug dependency and addiction in patients. As with other opioids, Vicodin procedures a significant influx of dopamine to the addict which can negatively impact life stability, behavior, self-worth, and other critical mental health factors.
What Should I Do to Address Vicodin Addiction in Myself or a Loved One?
If someone close to you is struggling with Vicodin addiction, then it may be time to get them check in to a rehab facility that address Vicodin and opioid dependency. Options like Serenity House Detox & Recovery have the specialists on hand to provide holistic treatment options in Ft. Lauderdale.
Are you asking is Vicodin an opioid? If you are struggling with Vicodin addiction, then please reach out for the help you need to address Vicodin withdrawals and slowly get on the path to recovery. Call us at 866.294.5306 to see what your treatment options are.
