Many people have found themselves struggling with an addiction to the prescription drug Vicodin. Prescribed as a pain reliever, Vicodin is one of the most commonly abused prescription drugs because they do not take it exactly as the doctor intended it to be taken. When used according to instructions, it can be a very effective analgesic to help relieve pain.
Prolonged use of Vicodin can lead to addiction because the body builds up a tolerance to the drug requiring more and more in order to produce the same effect. It takes over the brain’s normal pleasure and motivational systems making the need for the drug become priority.
Vicodin produces a euphoric feeling relaxing both the body and the mind. People with an addiction to Vicodin are often in denial that they have a problem. They rationalize their use by saying things like “I’m just taking it for the pain” or “The doctor said I could take a few extra if I needed to”.
As with other drugs, there are people who don’t get hooked on the medication, but true addicts will begin to get frantic when their supply starts running low. They look for ways to replenish their supply – even lying about physical problems just to get a prescription.
Vicodin addicts find that they can’t function without the drug. Even though the pain has subsided, Vicodin produces an effect in them that they feel they cannot live without. People suffering from Vicodin addiction find themselves going to outside sources such as drug dealers to obtain the pills and will often go to great lengths to maintain their supply.
Addiction to the drug Vicodin is often seen as less serious than an addiction to illegal street drugs because it is prescribed by a physician. It is also because Vicodin is not seen as causing the same life-altering problems as other drugs. It is for these reasons that people who are addicted to Vicodin don’t think they need to seek help for their problem.
It’s important to seek medical help because the detoxification process can be painful and difficult. Treating your mind is just as important as treating your body, so get some counseling as well. In order to gain the tools and resources you need to stay off the drug, you will need to become an active participant in your own recovery and involve those around you for support.
Freedom from Vicodin drug addiction is possible, however, when you seek out help for the problem. Drug addiction counseling is the only way you can effectively stop using Vicodin and become healthy again.