Vicodin addiction can occur in individuals who are prescribed the medication during a period of moderate to intense pain. This is common when recovering from surgery or an injury. Vicodin is a narcotic that can become addictive over time. Patients have been known to continue using the medication after they should no longer be experiencing discomfort. Coping with this addiction involves stopping the medication and dealing with withdrawal symptoms.
Step 1
Admit you have a problem. If you have been taking Vicodin for a longer period of time than your physician believed would be necessary, it is possible you may have become addicted. If you are "doctor shopping" to obtain multiple prescriptions, you are almost certainly addicted.
Step 2
Seek medical attention from professionals with experience in dealing with Vicodin abuse. Communicate honestly with your physician and other health care workers about your situation including how long you have been taking the drug and how much you have been taking per day.
Step 3
Reduce the amount of Vicodin you are taking daily until you are no longer ingesting any of the drug. Going "cold turkey" is not suggested as the resulting withdrawal symptoms usually begin within 12 hours and are often very severe. Check with your physician regarding how much to decrease in terms of dosage per day.
Step 4
Inform your closest family and friends of your addiction. Though it can be distressing to "confess" your problem, you are going to need those closest to you to understand what you are facing. Explain the circumstances and do not allow yourself to be ashamed
Step 5
Prepare for withdrawal symptoms. Even by gradually reducing your intake of Vicodin you are likely to experience some symptoms of withdrawal that may include body pain, nausea, irritability, chills insomnia, sweating and depression. Ask your doctor for advice in handling specific symptoms and let family and friends know what you are experiencing so they can help.
Step 6
Arrange for as much peace as possible while you are coping with Vicodin addiction. If possible take a short leave from work, limit your social activities and use relaxation techniques such as yoga and visual imagery to help calm you. Do engage in physical activity as you can tolerate it. Don't exercise, however, when you are feeling ill from withdrawal.
Step 7
Join a support group for those struggling with addictions. This is an important part of coping with your situation and is good therapy. Listen to others who are at different points in their recovery. Share with them as you are able.
Tips and Warnings
- Expect the unexpected as your experience from Vicodin addiction will be different than the experiences of others. You will share some commonality by do not be caught off guard by unforeseen complications and feelings.
- Don't give up on conquering your addiction if you suffer a relapse. Accept you made a mistake and get right back to working on your recovery.
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