Signs and Symptoms of Vicodin Use, Abuse, Addiction & Facts

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What is Vicodin?

Vicodin is a highly addictive, legal prescription drug that works in a similar manner to other opiates.

Vicodin blocks the brain’s ability to perceive pain, producing a “downer effect” on the user. Many people become addicted to the pill because it induces a state of relaxation and euphoria. Vicodin pills contain hydrocodone and acetaminophen

Vicodin is also known as:

  • Vics (or “Vikes”)
  • Vicos
  • Norco (brand name)
  • Vikes
  • Hydro or Hydrocodone (the active ingredient)


How is Vicodin Ingested or Used?

Vicodin can be taken as a pill or a liquid.

What are the Symptoms of Vicodin Use?

Vicodin use causes users to display symptoms similar to other opiates. You may be able to notice certain changes in a person when they are taking Vicodin – even if they’re using it with a legal prescription.

When under the influence, a Vicodin user may be short of breath. Their eyes may reveal small, constricted pupils. They may appear disoriented when they’re high, or nod off; seeming completely awake at one moment and passing out. Somebody who is high on Vicodin may appear “heavy” when they sit or lay down.

A person who is abusing Vicodin may appear to hoard or ration the drug. This means they will typically have more than one bottle in their living quarters. Sometimes they will cut the pill in half to save for later. You may notice remnants of crumbled pills (powder) coating the  empty bottles.

What Are the Long-Term Effects and Dangers of Vicodin Use?

Vicodin is a dangerous narcotic drug that can cause death if abused (warning: extremely deadly with alcohol). It is especially dangerous because of its toxic effects on the liver when a user overdoses.

Long-term users may suffer from chronic pneumonia, pulmonary diseases, or liver disease. Others suffer from arthritis and rheumatologic problems.

There are many ways that long-term Vicodin use can hurt the body and major organs. Each person’s health issues will be different, just as side effects of the drug can be different.

Obviously, one of the most concerning risks (besides actual overdose) is the user gravitating to other drugs (including heroin) if they cannot obtain Vicodin.  Mixing drugs often causes fatal overdose and as mentioned, mixing with alcohol is a very deadly activity.

Signs and Symptoms of Vicodin Dependency/Addiction

Vicodin users can become addicted fairly quickly the drug because of the euphoric effects they may feel as well as building tolerance.

A person addicted to Vicodin will addict have continued drug-seeking behavior that causes problems in their daily life. They may see multiple doctors to try and get fraudulent prescriptions or steal from their family to support their habit.

A Vicodin addict may eventually end up with financial problems, legal problems or trouble keeping a job. Vicodin use can cause dramatic behavior changes, such as poor hygiene. They may seem to have lost motivation and interest in future goals. When an addict runs out of Vicodin, they may become panicky or full of rage.

As addiction progresses, an addict’s health will decline alongside their relationships. They will continue to seek out the drug or may even try other opiates, such as heroin, when they can’t find a supply of Vicodin.

What are the Symptoms of Vicodin Withdrawal?

Vicodin addicts often feel compelled to continue using the drug because of the intense withdrawal they may experience when they try to quit using.

Vicodin withdrawal symptoms include muscle aches, bone aches and intense cramping that causes a person to kick their legs. They may even run a fever.

If you or somebody you love wants to detox from Vicodin, it’s important to know that you shouldn’t go it alone. Medical supervision is necessary to make you as comfortable and safe as possible. Withdrawal symptoms following Vicodin dependence can also cause serious medical complications.

Getting Help for Vicodin Addiction

If you think you have a Vicodin problem, or want to know more about recovering from addiction to Vicodin or other drugs, we’re here to help. We can help you reclaim your life and chart a path to recovery. Most importantly, you’ll be able to get clean in a safe, supportive environment that’s focused on helping you reclaim your life.

We can answer any questions you may have about your treatment options. Reach out to us- the call is 100% confidential.