Vicodin is a painkiller physicians often prescribe to treat acute or chronic pain. It can be prescribed for several conditions but can also be incredibly addictive for those with personal or family history of addiction. If you believe that either you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of Vicodin addiction, it may be time to consider Vicodin addiction treatment programs near you. Reach out to our medical professionals today at Northpoint Seattle via 888.483.6031 to discuss your treatment options.
Understanding Vicodin Addiction
When used as directed, Vicodin can safely improve your quality of life. But, like many prescription drugs, abusing Vicodin by using it to achieve a high can have serious consequences.
Causes and Risk Factors for Vicodin Dependence
There is no single predictor for Vicodin abuse. However, certain factors make an individual more or less likely to develop a Vicodin addiction.
- Genetic – if you have a close relative such as a parent or sibling who struggles with substance abuse, you may be more likely to develop a substance use disorder.
- Environmental – the environment you are in and the people you surround yourself with can also affect whether or not you develop a Vicodin addiction. If you surround yourself with people who abuse prescription drugs, you may be more likely to engage in substance abuse.
There are several more specific causes and risk factors for Vicodin dependence, but they depend on the individual. It is essential to be aware of the risks of addiction before it’s too late. If you are in an environment with individuals who show signs of Vicodin abuse, it may be time to establish boundaries to keep yourself safe or help them realize what they are doing to themselves.
Symptoms of Vicodin Addiction
There are many signs of Vicodin addiction to look out for if you believe that you or a loved one might be abusing their prescription. First, you may want to watch for the physical symptoms of Vicodin addiction:
- Drowsiness
- Constricted pupils
- Insomnia
- Psychomotor agitation
- Itchiness
There are also many psychological signs of Vicodin addiction. Some examples are:
- Cravings for Vicodin
- Impaired judgment and reasoning abilities
- Suicidal thoughts
- Problems with memory
Psychological signs can lead to behavioral symptoms as well, such as:
- Frequently missing work or school
- Continuing to abuse Vicodin despite expressing the desire to stop
- Ignoring daily tasks or responsibilities
- Avoiding activities you once enjoyed
- Removing yourself from friends and family
- Making multiple visits to various doctors to acquire more prescriptions for Vicodin, often referred to as doctor shopping
- Attempting or succeeding in stealing someone else’s prescriptions
- Forging prescriptions
Behavioral symptoms of Vicodin addiction may become more visible when the patient attempts to stop or limit their Vicodin use or if they begin to run out.
Effects of Abusing Vicodin
There are several consequences to abusing Vicodin and other prescription drugs. It can take a toll on your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. You may become isolated and even damage relationships that were once important to you. Without proper treatment, a Vicodin addiction can lead to:
- Low oxygen levels
- Liver damage
- Impaired vision
- Familial troubles
- Marriage problems
- Loss of friendships
- Loss of job
- Financial stress
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
- Stomach problems
- Chronic dry nose and mouth
- Worsening of mental illnesses or development of mental illness
Vicodin Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Recovery
The effects of Vicodin addiction can be incredibly damaging to one’s life. No matter where you or your loved one is in their addiction, Northpoint Seattle is prepared to help. Don’t wait another second. Reach out to Northpoint Recovery today at 888.483.6031 to discuss your treatment options.