Risks, Signs, and Treatment Options

Vicodin is a prescription pain reliever made from hydrocodone, which is an opioid pain reliever, and acetaminophen.[1] Opioids work on the central nervous system to provide relief from pain. Acetaminophen also helps with pain relief, and like hydrocodone, if taken in high doses, can cause serious harm.[2]
Vicodin is used to treat pain following surgery, injury, or chronic pain, and works well for short-term pain management when used exactly as prescribed and monitored by the physician. However, once someone starts taking Vicodin multiple times, taking a higher dose than prescribed, or taking it for an extended period of time, the risk of becoming physically dependent or addicted to Vicodin is increased.[3]

The addictive nature of Vicodin is due to the hydrocodone (the opioid component) triggering an increase in the release of dopamine within the brain’s reward circuitry, creating a cycle of reinforcement to use the drug repeatedly.[7] Eventually, the natural reward pathways become less responsive to Vicodin, leading the user to see Vicodin as a necessity to function “normally.”

Physical dependence can happen rapidly, and as one reduces or stops taking Vicodin, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as muscle pain, anxiety, restlessness, and cravings.[8] The withdrawal symptoms make it difficult for someone to stop taking Vicodin without some type of formalized support.

Vicodin addiction is not simply a matter of controlling one’s amount of pain. Ongoing use impacts a person’s emotional and mental well-being and ability to concentrate and function at a reasonable level. As the person uses Vicodin, they may experience increased depression or anxiety and mood instability along with their Vicodin misuse.

Ongoing Vicodin use also leads to gastrointestinal, hepatic (liver), and respiratory problems.[11] The physical and psychological effects of opioid dependence and chronic exposure to acetaminophen can impact the user’s health long-term if they do not receive treatment with guidance from a medical provider. When treating Vicodin addiction successfully, both physical and mental effects should be addressed.

Agape Treatment Center has a focus on evidence-based, structured outpatient treatment for Vicodin addiction, while also treating the mental health aspect (co-occurring) that often comes with it. Programs at Agape are for individuals who need structured, therapeutic support but do not require inpatient or detoxification therapy. Treatment is designed to meet the unique mental health needs of the patient, as well as take into account their Vicodin history and any daily personal responsibilities that may impact treatment.