Vicodin is a medicine commonly prescribed for controlling moderate to severe pain. It is actually a formulation of two pain medications, acetaminophen and hydrocodone, that has a stronger effect than either of the medications alone. Hydrocodone is classified as a narcotic and has the potential for abuse, dependence and addiction. An individual taking Vicodin regularly for an extended period of time who suddenly decreases the dose or stops taking the medication will experience withdrawal symptoms. The severity of the symptoms is proportional to the dosage the individual has been taking and the length of time the person has been taking Vicodin. In general, withdrawal symptoms peak in three to five days and slowly resolve after that.
Aches
Withdrawal symptoms are typically the opposite of the desired effect of the medication or drug. Vicodin is used to reduce pain. It follows that the main symptom of Vicodin withdrawal is pain. An excerpt from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, notes that this is most commonly experienced as muscle aches. Muscle aches and other withdrawal pain are typically managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
Agitation
The hydrocodone component of Vicodin is a narcotic with a calming, euphoric effect. An individual in Vicodin withdrawal will experience the opposite effect---agitation. Such an individual may be excitable, restless and nervous. A limited-stimulus environment may make the individual more comfortable. An article on the University of Maryland Medical Center website notes that clonidine is often used to treat agitation and other withdrawal symptoms.
Sweating
Another sign of Vicodin withdrawal is excessive sweating. Sweating is another manifestation of a hyperactive nervous system and will gradually subside along with the other physical symptoms. Normally, no treatment is required for this condition; however, if the sweating contributes to the agitation and anxiety of the individual in withdrawal, a fever-reducing medication might help.
Diarrhea
A common side effect of narcotics is constipation. Suddenly reducing the dose results in the opposite symptoms, thus an individual in Vicodin withdrawal typically has some degree of diarrhea. An article on the MedlinePlus website notes that diarrhea is a later symptom of withdrawal. Treatment for withdrawal diarrhea consists of supportive therapy and replacing fluids, electrolytes and vitamins. Individuals with mild cases can manage by drinking caffeine-free sports drinks and taking a daily multivitamin. Individuals with more severe diarrhea can take an over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medication.
