Detoxing any psychoactive substances such as Vicodin could be unpleasant. This is because the body can be easily dependent on how the drug works in your system. When you decide to remove it from your routine, it disrupts the usual function of your neurotransmitters and causes a negative response termed the withdrawal syndrome.

Vicodin is a Schedule II controlled drug that can cause physical dependence in a matter of use for several weeks. Even when you take it as prescribed, you are not free from the risks it entails in your body. Making your detox experience can be less painful if you do it with medical care.

What Are The Withdrawal Symptoms Of Vicodin

Although withdrawal experiences typically vary from person to person, those who have been severely hooked by the drug’s euphoria by taking it in high doses or using it for months are prone to suffer seriously during detox.

It may be known that the symptoms are not life-threatening, however; it is always better to stay on the safe side by really considering medical treatment during detox.

The following are the most common withdrawal symptoms that can happen to anyone who has a history of using the substance.

Gastrointestinal problems

This includes nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If vomiting and diarrhea persist, it can lead to dehydration which needs immediate medical care. Clonidine is a prescription drug that can be used to reduce these symptoms.

Flu-like symptoms

This consists of headache and muscle pain as well as runny nose and fever. This can cause you to experience fatigue and episodes of involuntary muscle movements. This typically occurs as the first withdrawal symptoms before the psychological ones progress.

Involuntary muscle movements

This specifically pertains to instances of chills and tremors. Some people suggest that a way to control this is by keeping your hands moving such as squeezing or lifting certain objects. Some individuals also suffer from extreme sweating.

Poor quality sleep

You may suffer from insomnia during withdrawal. This can add up to the load that your body is going through while dealing with certain aches in the head, stomach, or muscles. It can be helpful to establish a constant sleep schedule and avoid screen time before going to bed.

Psychological symptoms

Anxiety and agitation are the most common ones while it is also possible to suffer from co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression. If you find yourself experiencing suicidal ideations, seek professional help right away.

How Does Vicodin Detox Work

Vicodin is a product of the combined power of hydrocodone and acetaminophen. These are potent painkillers that make the drug highly effective in influencing your brain to perceive pain less intensely. They are prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain from injuries or surgery.

Since it belongs to the family of opioids, it has the potential to induce dependence and addiction. When this happens, you might find it hard to cut off your substance use despite the consequences it brings to your overall health and even in dealing with your responsibilities and relationships.

The best way to resolve this crisis is to undergo detox treatment which is medically supervised. Your doctor can help prevent you from experiencing relapse and a potentially fatal overdose. Overdose is common when you return to substance use. This is because once you detox, your body may not be able to endure your usual dose anymore.

Detoxing can make you experience an overwhelming withdrawal pain that can be relieved through opioid substitution therapy. This is when you are prescribed either Methadone or Buprenorphine. By taking any of these substances, your body will not drastically feel the absence of Vicodin because they substitute its function.

As a result, you will not experience a surge of withdrawal symptoms. Although withdrawal can still fill your days with distress, it can be more manageable. You can also top off your medication with therapy sessions to find relief from the psychological symptoms that come with the flu-like withdrawal symptoms.

How To Cope From Vicodin Withdrawal Pain

Prescription drugs and therapy sessions are highly essential in helping you cope with withdrawal pain. Other than that, you can also find relief by engaging in the following activities.

Meditation

Meditation is a mental exercise that allows you to keep your calm and release any kind of thoughts that cause you to feel stressed. It allows you to empty your mind from certain loads such as intense cravings for the substance. It helps you reach a more relaxed state.

Some meditations are accompanied by massage and acupuncture. These methods can help you soothe your headache and body pain, and at the same time, prevent your cravings from persistently bothering you. You may also track your thoughts by writing journals or simply spending quiet time with nature.

Light Exercise

This involves brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or any form of exercise that makes you move your body. This is known to help boost your cardiorespiratory function and allow your dopamine levels to increase and make you feel relieved.

You are advised to listen to how your body responds to these routines to avoid straining it drastically. It is not a good idea to push hard even when you feel dizzy or suffer from a headache while exercising. If in case this happens, you may take a rest and try a milder routine the next time.

Proper Nourishment

This includes a healthy diet and proper dehydration. Fruits and vegetables can supplement your physical and mental health with the right nutrients to make it function better. Avoiding greasy foods can help limit tendencies for nausea and vomiting. It is also advisable to take small meals regularly in a day to avoid upsetting your stomach.

Moral Support

Adequate support from families and friends can help make the detox experience worthwhile despite the challenges that come with this phase. The warmth and comfort from people who matter to you can make a huge difference in motivating you to constantly persevere and stay on the path of sobriety.