Signs of Vicodin Abuse
Vicodin is a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen, and is commonly prescribed for the treatment of acute and chronic pain. Chronic misuse can lead to Vicodin addiction, which has various effects including:
- Relationship problems at home
- Interpersonal difficulties at work
- Loss of employment
- Difficulty finding or maintaining a new job
- Financial hardship
- Mental health symptoms
- Worsened symptoms of co-occurring mental health disorders
- Physical health problems
Signs of Vicodin Abuse
How can you tell if your loved one is following their doctor’s orders and taking the medication as prescribed – or if Vicodin misuse is a concern? Some signs that your family member may be misusing Vicodin include:
- Taking the medication without a prescription
- Taking more than the doctor prescribed
- Taking Vicodin in addition to sedatives, alcohol, marijuana, or other mind-altering drugs
- Altering the pills before taking them
Additionally, misuse of Vicodin is indicated when a person routinely gets more pills through fraudulent means. That is, they may:
- Physically alter a paper script so the dose or number of pills is higher than the doctor ordered
- Take a paper script to multiple pharmacies and fill it repeatedly
- Purchase extra pills or other opiate substances
- “Pill-seek” at the emergency room by presenting with false symptoms of pain
- Seek out illegal pain clinics or doctors
Get Help Today
If Vicodin misuse is a growing concern in your family, you are not alone. Treatment can help. Contact us at Futures now for more information about treatment services that can help your family begin the healing process.
