Vicodin Addiction
Vicodin is synthetic codeine and acetaminophen (Tylenol). High levels of acetaminophen are toxic on their own; however, acetaminophen is not associated with the chemical dependency prone with Vicodin use. The treatment of acute and chronic pain is a difficult challenge facing the health care community. All benefits of a substance or compound are equally balanced with proportionate risks. The better a drug is at doing a specific thing, the greater the likelihood of intolerant short term effects and/or grossly damaging long term effects. Vicodin is VERY good at relieving the perception of pain. Perception is key as the body’s chemical pain messengers are still being produced. As a result, with Vicodin addiction, not only does tolerance develop, but rebound (pain post medication that is greater than the pain before administration of the drug) complicates the progressive lack of response to increased dosing.
Vicodin Abuse
Beyond abuse, addiction and dependency are a potential mix of the physiological need for Vicodin and psychological or behavioral need for self medication with Vicodin. Ultimately the addict has to desire to be free of her drive for the drug and/or its effects. Unfortunately, a great deal of damage – if not death – is far more likely than an addict seeking treatment on their own. With Vicodin, as with most drugs, intervention is often the only way to get an addict into treatment.
Vicodin Abuse Intervention
If you are reading this, it is NOT too late. Calls are confidential and anonymous. You may only need information – your loved one may need an addiction intervention.