subject: The Abuse Of A Potent Pain Reliever And Its Side Effects [print this page] Vicodin, a doctor prescribed drug used to relieve pain, is very effective. Vicodin is also considered an opioid or narcotic drug because uncontrolled use of this medication is habit forming. Many of those who use Vicodin feel a deep feeling of wellbeing. One of its components, acetaminophen, suppresses the production of pain causing substances in the body called prostaglandins. That is why Vicodin is considered to be one of the leading drugs against pain in the market. When doctors' prescription is carefully followed, the wondrous effect of Vicodin can truly benefit man.
One other ingredient in Vicodin is hydrocodone. This particular chemical is addictive and induces drug tolerance. Drug tolerance occurs when a constant user of Vicodin no longer feels its pain free effects unless larger doses are ingested. Addiction to Vicodin can start a week after continued use. Vicodin abuse is becoming popular among the US and according to studies, about 20 percent of its population ages twelve and above use prescribed medication for diseases that doesn't necessarily need prescription drugs. The data are alarming when we consider that the medication is extremely addictive.
Vicodin abuse develops a number of warning signs that would help us determine the problem among users. The difference between normal users from those addicted can be manifested through physical and psychological ways. Addicted patients use the drug in close intervals instead of following the appropriate interval time. Consumption is higher among addicts because the pain will not be alleviated by the regular dose prescribed. Those who are reliant to Vicodin are also prone to doctor shopping. When their primary doctor no more offers them with the prescription, they go to different doctors to obtain the prescription.
Vicodin prescription is taken with extreme caution. One of the considerations in using this drug is that one must not take alcohol while under medication. High doses can lead to liver damage so prescription must be followed. When an individual takes vicodin, he must not run machinery for one of the effects of this medication is drowsiness. Possible allergies can also happen for those taking this drug. As mentioned above, abuse of this medication can cause liver damage but this isn't all. Individuals dependent on vicodin manifest a number of negative effects. Side effects of an addiction from vicodin include drowsiness, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting and bowel problems. Severity of the side effects depends also on the dose used by the individual. Hallucinations, blurry vision, extreme confusion and even long term deafness are also possible adverse effects of Vicodin addiction. Therefore, it is essential that the use of Vicodin must be carefully monitored by a healthcare professional to prevent abuse and future problems in health.
