Vicodin is a prescription medication consisting of the two drugs hydrocodone and acetaminophen, and it’s used to provide relief to people experiencing severe pain. While it is effective at this task, there is a dark side to Vicodin, especially when used for non-medical reasons. The hydrocodone within Vicodin is an opioid, a highly addictive substance that provides pleasurable euphoric effects that can make a user take more and more of the drug over time, leading to opioid addiction. Unfortunately, this comes with extreme physical, mental, and social consequences.
Vicodin addiction has contributed to the opioid crisis currently happening in the United States. In 2022 alone, there were 73,838 deaths involving synthetic opioids in the US. With how much an opioid use disorder can impact the individual’s life, as well as the lives of the family and friends who love them, it’s crucial to seek out an addiction treatment center for Vicodin abuse.
If you or someone you know has a Vicodin addiction, rest assured there is help out there. At Genesis Medical Detox, it is our mission to provide substance abuse treatment to anyone with severe Vicodin addictions, helping them get through the unpleasant detoxification process to facilitate a long-term recovery.
The Genesis Medical Detox Approach
We offer a comprehensive detoxification treatment plan in Tennessee. It’s a comfortable space in a hospital setting that provides everything patients need to get through the Vicodin withdrawal process and come out the other side ready for a life of sobriety. Here’s what to expect from our care.
A Stand Alone Detox
Some Vicodin addiction rehabs keep patients for several months, but that’s not what we do here. Instead, we focus solely on the detoxification process. We welcome patients at the very beginning of their recovery journeys, at the point where they are just stopping taking the drug, and help manage the withdrawal symptoms with dedicated therapies and prescribed medications.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Genesis provides individualized treatment plans to every patient who steps into our center. A tailored treatment like this is key to ensuring a patient’s absolute safety and the plan’s efficacy. We’ll consider everything from your history with Vicodin to any medical needs you might have. It’s all structured around you and what will make the withdrawal process as easy as possible for you.
24/7 Medical Supervision
People with a Vicodin addiction often experience a physical and psychological dependence on the drug, which means coming off the drug causes quite extreme withdrawal symptoms. Going through these symptoms can be scary, so we offer 24/7 medical supervision to all patients, so they can rest assured that medical help is available at all hours of the day. It is the only safe way of detoxing from the drug.
Therapeutic Support
Getting through the detoxification process isn’t just hard on the body – it’s hard on your mental health, too. Addiction can sometimes make it feel like your brain is working against you. To help our patients manage, we offer thorough therapeutic support for their stay, including individual and group counselling sessions. These therapy sessions put patients in a supportive environment and can be enormously helpful for getting through the withdrawals and learning coping skills that see them through a full recovery.
Experienced and Compassionate Staff
Going through the detoxification stage of the recovery process is anything but easy. It helps to have medical professionals around you who know exactly what they are doing and what to expect, and that’s what the Genesis team offers. Every member of staff at Genesis is highly trained and has lots of experience with drug addiction. Plus, there is genuine care and compassion from every physician, nurse, and therapist here.
Comfortable Accommodations
As well as operating in a safe medical setting, we also prioritize comfort for all our patients. The last thing anyone wants when going through Vicodin withdrawals is to be in an uncomfortable environment, so we provide cozy beds, an individual bathroom, and a TV for every single patient.
A Fast Admissions Process
Choosing to go to Vicodin addiction rehab is an amazing first step, and you do not want anything getting in the way – especially a slow and tiresome admissions process. Luckily, we get our patients checked into our Vicodin addiction treatment center promptly so you can focus on recovery as soon as possible.
Offered Ground Transportation
Many clients who seek our Vicodin addiction rehab in Tennessee do not know how to get here. That’s not a problem when you choose our center, as we offer ground transportation within a 2.5-hour radius of us. We can pick you up to get you settled into the center, and then, once you are ready to leave us, we can drop you back off wherever you need to go.
About Our Tennessee Vicodin Addiction Rehab Center
Our Tennessee Vicodin addiction treatment program is located specifically in Pulaski. Our center has plenty of comforts, including social spaces, individual rooms, TVs, and personal bathrooms. The surrounding city is beautiful, with Pulaski offering plenty of interesting architecture and serene greenery.
In terms of location, Pulaski is close to several other southern US cities, so whether you live in Nashville, Huntsville, or Birmingham, you can use our Tennessee treatment center.
Understanding Vicodin Addiction
Vicodin is a prescription medication used to treat severe pain. It contains a blend of two painkillers: hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Hydrocodone is an opioid and works by binding to the body’s opioid receptors to block pain and give a sense of relaxation and euphoria, while acetaminophen (also known as paracetamol) works by chemically blocking pain signals and also reducing fever.
When these two ingredients are used together, they form a potent and effective pain reliever, which can be very helpful at treating things like chronic pain.
However, there’s a possibility of Vicodin abuse due to the presence of the opioid. Opioids are highly addictive as they give the user a pleasurable sensation. The human body naturally wants to chase anything that causes pleasure signals, so it leads to the user taking the drug over and over again, even when it’s not medically necessary.
Over time, a person will build a tolerance for the drug and require higher dosages to experience the same effects. Then, if they stop taking Vicodin, they experience withdrawal symptoms. It is at this point that the best treatment option is a residential treatment program to go through the withdrawal safely. Recovery is more than possible with the right Vicodin addiction treatment program.
Vicodin Addiction Risk Factors
Some people are more susceptible to an opioid use disorder than others. Here are some of the underlying causes that may contribute to a Vicodin addiction:
Family History: A person can be genetically predisposed to forming an addiction. If you have a family history of substance abuse, the chances are you are more likely to create your addiction compared to someone without that genetic link.
Mental Illness: People with specific mental health conditions are often more likely to seek out drugs like Vicodin to treat their symptoms. For example, those with depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder may find themselves turning towards an opioid for the relaxing, euphoric benefits, which can quickly turn into an addiction. It’s important to note that the drug only provides temporary relief, and long-term addiction worsens a person’s mental health.
Being Around the Drug: Many environmental factors influence whether or not someone ends up using prescription pain relievers non-medically. If someone has access to the drug, that increases the chances of using it and forming an addiction. This could be from having access to an illicit drug version or by receiving a prescription.
Past or Current Substance Abuse: Many people who end up with a Vicodin addiction have had a substance use disorder in the past or have one co-occurring.
Of course, ticking off risk factors does not necessarily mean you will form an addiction – many people with family members who have opioid use disorders live their entire lives without forming a drug dependence.
The Signs of Vicodin Addiction (in yourself)
It is not always easy to spot a problem, let alone admit to yourself that you have an addiction. However, knowing the warning signs to watch out for is crucial, as it means seeking professional help sooner rather than later. Here are some of the signs of a Vicodin addiction to be aware of:
-
Feeling More Irritable
-
Frequent Headaches
-
Restlessness
-
Dizziness
-
Nausea
-
Headaches
-
Constipation
-
Feeling Drowsy Regularly
There are also some behavioral signs:
Feeling a Lack of Control: Most people with addictions feel they have lost control. If you feel as though you cannot control how and when you take Vicodin, there’s a high chance you’ve formed an addiction.
Seeking Out the Drug: Going doctor shopping for Vicodin is a warning sign – especially if you begin looking for it without a doctor’s prescription.
Building Tolerance: Do you find that you have to take more Vicodin now than you used to? Chances are you have built a tolerance for the drug and have become more physically dependent on it.
Taking More than Prescribed: You should always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking any drug. If you’re taking more Vicodin than you have been prescribed, that’s a symptom of addiction.
Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms: If you experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking Vicodin, that’s a sign you are physically dependent on the drug.
Spotting the Signs of Vicodin Addiction in Loved Ones
Are you worried that someone you love has a Vicodin addiction? It’s important to spot the signs so you can help them:
-
They Are Defensive About Their Vicodin Use
-
Their Work/School Performance is Poor
-
They Exhibit More Secretive Behavior
-
They Lie About Taking Vicodin
-
They are Withdrawing from Loved Ones
-
They Have Frequent Mood Swings
If you notice any of these in a family member or friend and want to help them, you can contact our team to learn about our Vicodin addiction treatment program and how we can assist.
The Short-Term Risks of Vicodin Abuse
Some of the short-term risks aren’t too serious and simply include some physical symptoms that pass eventually, and they include:
-
Constipation
-
Dizziness
-
Vomiting
-
Nausea
-
Headaches
-
Stomach Cramps
-
Drowsiness
These symptoms should dissipate in a couple of hours. However, there are some more serious short-term risks to be aware of.
Allergic Reactions: Some people are allergic to the ingredients in Vicodin, such as hydrocodone or acetaminophen. As a result, they experience severe allergic reactions after taking the drug, causing symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, heart palpitations, breathing difficulty, and fever. It’s crucial to seek medical treatment if you experience an allergic reaction.
Breathing Difficulties: Sometimes, people experience breathing problems after taking Vicodin. It may cause slow, shallow breathing; a blueish tint to the skin; sleepiness; and dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, get emergency medical help.
Low Blood Pressure: Vicodin can cause low blood pressure, leading to dizziness, blurred vision, and even passing out.
Skin Reactions: Vicodin may cause serious skin reactions in some people. This will cause symptoms such as a flat red rash, red or purple skin, skin that looks burned, bumps, and watery eyes. If you exhibit any of these symptoms, get emergency help as it could be something like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, which can be fatal.
Vicodin Overdose: An overdose occurs when an individual takes too much Vicodin in one go, and it produces several symptoms that should act as a warning sign to seek immediate medical attention.
The Signs of a Vicodin Overdose
If you think someone is going through a Vicodin overdose, you must seek medical aid as soon as possible, as it could be fatal. Here are the signs:
-
Pinpoint Pupils
-
Breathing Difficulties
-
Shallow Breathing
-
Unconsciousness
-
Cold, Clammy Skin
-
Blue Skin, Lips, and Nails
The Long-Term Risks of Vicodin Addiction
Taking Vicodin over a long period only exacerbates the risks. Here are the long-term risks associated with Vicodin addiction.
Liver Damage
The acetaminophen primarily causes the liver damage from Vicodin, as the body cannot process it in large doses, which causes a buildup of the toxin NAPQI. This can happen because of either an overdose or continued use over a long period. Some of the symptoms associated with liver problems include jaundice, dark urine, light colored stool, itching, stomach pain, appetite loss, and nausea. If you notice any of these after either short-term or prolonged Vicodin use, speak to your doctor.
Hyperalgesia
Hyperalgesia is a condition that causes an increased sensitivity to pain. This can happen to users who frequently abuse Vicodin, as it interrupts the neurobiological pathways associated with pain thresholds.
Respiratory Issues
Long-term use of opioids like Vicodin can cause respiratory issues as it interacts with the brain’s respiratory centers. This may cause slow, shallow breathing and, in some cases, respiratory depression, which can be fatal.
Risk of Cardiovascular Events
Opioids can increase a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease. This means someone with a Vicodin addiction is more likely to experience heart failure, a heart attack, or a stroke.
Worsening Mental Health
Vicodin may provide instant relief for people dealing with mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, but it worsens them in the long run. Over time, frequent Vicodin use can lead to more anxiety and depression, creating a cycle of abuse that’s hard to come out of.
Personal Problems
It’s not all about health problems – long-term Vicodin abuse can also interrupt your personal life. All of the unpleasant symptoms may make you moodier and lack responsibility, which can cause strains within your relationships and even get in the way of work or school.
Vicodin Withdrawal Symptoms
Your body gets used to a drug, which means coming off it produces withdrawal symptoms. That’s exactly what happens with a Vicodin addiction – your body effectively cleanses itself, but that means going through unpleasant side effects while it does so. Here is what to expect:
-
Restlessness
-
Anxiety
-
Cramps
-
Stomach Issues (such as vomiting and diarrhea)
-
Joint Pain
-
Irritability
-
Fever-like symptoms (such as chills and fever)
Just know that these symptoms will end. The time they take to dissipate depends on the individual – they peak on the third day and then slowly taper off. Most people go through the withdrawal symptoms within a week.
The Steps to Recovery with General Medical Detox
Are you interested in our Vicodin addiction treatment program? Reaching out for help can be hard, especially if you don’t know the road ahead. Here, we’ll go over the steps to recovery when you choose Genesis Medical Detox.
1. Getting in Touch
The first step may sound easy, but for many seeking substance abuse treatment, admitting that they have a problem out loud is a huge challenge. At Genesis, all you need to do is fill out our short online form to get in touch, and then we will call you to talk about options. It’s the first step on a potentially life-changing journey.
2. Getting Here and Checking in
The next step is the admissions process. At this stage, we’ll be able to organize transportation for you if you need it, and we’ll take the necessary information to find the best treatment plan for you. When you check into the Tennessee center, you’ll receive a physical examination from one of our nurses before settling into your room.
3. The Detox
The next step is the detoxification process. You will go through Vicodin withdrawal symptoms, but our team will do everything they can to lessen them. With a mixture of appropriate medications, individual therapy, and group counselling, you will get through this process and come out the other side stronger than ever. You will also be staying in a warm, comfortable environment with around-the-clock care should you need it. You’ll be as safe as you could be during the detox.
4. Leaving Our Center
Once you are through the detoxification process, you are free to leave our Tennessee center and resume your normal life. You do this only when you and the medical professionals feel you are through the mental and physical symptoms. At that stage, our team will set up aftercare for you, such as appropriate outpatient programs specific to opioid drug addictions. This is to ensure relapse prevention.
That’s it – the four steps simplified. Our Tennessee Vicodin addiction rehab makes the process as straightforward as possible so that more patients can receive the treatment they desperately need.
Success Stories
Our Vicodin addiction treatment program has already helped numerous individuals get clean and live a life of sobriety:
“I had an amazing experience with Genesis Medical Detox. I was able to get into the center right away and they took me through the whole process. They gave me advice about my treatment plan and were really understanding. The staff were all very friendly and professional, I never felt like I had to be on guard with them. Definitely recommend checking this place out!” – Rosemary Larson
“Genesis Detox is top-notch when it comes to individual care and customer service. It’s my belief that Genesis is providing industry leading care and customer service i.e. medical detoxification, case management, and continued care planning. I have and will continue to refer my clients to Genesis.” – Nick Howe
“I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the staff at Genesis Medical Detox. I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a safe, affordable, and comfortable detox. The people were great and the service was impeccable.” – Joey Cunningham
Get in Touch to Recover from Vicodin Addiction
Are you ready to say goodbye to your addiction? Our medication-assisted treatment could be the answer. With Vicodin addiction rehab, you’ll have a team of medical professionals helping you through every step of the detoxification process.
To learn more about our Vicodin addiction treatment or to kickstart the recovery process, get in touch with us today. We have a simple form on our website you can fill out – or just give us a call. We even offer free insurance coverage verification. We look forward to hearing from you!
What we offer
-
Medical Detox
-
Alcohol Detox
-
Benzo Detox
-
Cocaine Detox
-
Heroin Detox
-
Opiate Detox
-
Prescription Drug Detox
Get in touch!
Please complete our Confidential Contact Form below or reach a member of our team by calling admissions: 844-895-0537.
Here is the Beginning Of Your Road To Recovery
Call us today!
844-895-0537
