Overcoming Vicodin Withdrawal Symptoms in Detox
As one of many prescription opiate pain relievers, Vicodin comes with a high potential for dependency and addiction. Compared to other narcotic analgesics, Vicodin effects most resemble those of codeine.
Vicodin easily interacts with the body’s own opiate receptors located throughout the central nervous system. The drug’s effects become more pronounced over time to the point where the central nervous system can’t function normally in its absence.
Vicodin withdrawal symptoms result from the body’s growing dependency leaving it unable to properly regulate essential functions. Detoxing from Vicodin offers the only means for breaking the body’s dependence on the drug.
Overcoming Vicodin withdrawal symptoms in detox starts with acknowledging the extent of the drug’s effects. Only then can a person take the necessary steps to get the type of help he or she needs. From there, staying engaged in the treatment process increases the likelihood of a successful detox period.
Vicodin Abuse and Dependence Potential
As a Schedule II controlled substance, Vicodin contains a combination of hydrocodone, a powerful opiate and acetaminophen, a non-opiate analgesic agent. People who take the drug as prescribed remain at a low risk of dependency though users may still experience mild Vicodin withdrawal symptoms after a few weeks, according to the U. S. National Library of Medicine. Exceeding dosage amounts or taking Vicodin for longer than prescribed opens a person up to the abuse and dependency potential of the drug.
Honesty
While Vicodin’s dependency effects may be difficult to withstand, a person can still take a good hard look at the negative consequences that have resulted from drug use. Vicodin withdrawal symptoms are easy to spot, especially in cases of long-term use.
Vicodin withdrawal symptoms typically take the form of:
- Periods of depression
- Persistent irritability
- Anxiety episodes
- Problems sleeping
- Drug cravings
The worse the symptom display the more likely a person will require professional help to make it through the withdrawal period.
Consider Getting Detox Treatment
For chronic, long-term users, Vicodin withdrawal symptoms can easily overwhelm a person’s ability to abstain. Under these conditions, significant alterations in brain function may persist long after the detox stage. Detox treatment programs can administer medication therapies to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms, which greatly increases a person’s chances maintaining abstinence.
Getting Engaged in the Treatment Process
Detox treatment programs offer a range of services to help ensure a person has the needed tools to overcome Vicodin withdrawal symptoms on a long-term basis. Confronting the underlying issues that drive drug-using behaviors is a big part of the detox process. These interventions not only help those in recovery stay engaged in the treatment process, but also help with getting at the root of the drug problem.
Use Your Support Network
Whether detoxing at a treatment center or on one’s own, the importance of a support network cannot be overlooked. As distressing as Vicodin withdrawal symptoms can be, being able to talk to others who support your treatment efforts can really make a difference during the most difficult times. Attending local 12-Step support group meetings on a frequent basis can also prove invaluable when trying to make it through the withdrawal stage.