Vicodin Overdose

Vicodin is a medication that is frequently prescribed by physicians and may be one of the most abused prescription drugs on the market today. This medication is a blend of the narcotic, hydrocodone, and a non-narcotic, acetaminophen. Together, these drugs create a highly efficient pain reliever for moderate to severe pain. However, many users find that they become dependent upon Vicodin, mentally and physically, just by taking the drug as prescribed.

Experiencing side effects from Vicodin is not uncommon and unfortunately, neither is a Vicodin overdose. Since Vicodin is a duel drug, consequences are severe—and in some cases, deadly—for those who do not take it as directed. At Meditox, we can help you avoid a Vicodin overdose by providing you with a Suboxone detox that will help your break your addiction to Vicodin and start a new life without drugs.

What are the Signs of a Vicodin Overdose?

Victims who suffer chronic side effects from Vicodin should be especially careful when taking the medication in large doses or using it for an extended period of time. Many physical effects signify a Vicodin overdose. They include:

Blood disorders
Bluish tinge to skin
Cold and clammy skin
Extreme sleepiness progressing to a state of unresponsiveness or coma
General feeling of bodily discomfort
Heart problems
Heavy perspiration
Limp muscles
Nausea
Slow heartbeat
Vomiting

Because Vicodin contains two different drugs, some symptoms will vary depending upon whether it is the hydrocodone that is causing the overdose or the acetaminophen. Hydrocodone is an opioid and when taken in large amounts or abused, it is common to experience breathing problems. In the case of an acetaminophen overdose, liver failure is known to be the most serious effect as well as low blood pressure and kidney failure.

What Do I Do in the Event of a Vicodin Overdose?

If there is a possibility that you or someone you are with has overdosed on Vicodin but you are not certain, the National Poison Control Center is an invaluable number to have on hand. You can reach them by calling 1-800-222-1222. Poison experts are manning the phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can help you figure out what is happening. Poison control is completely confidential and can answer any questions you may have concerning Vicodin or any other drug.

If you are quite sure that you or someone else is in the throes of a Vicodin overdose, you should call 911 immediately. The operator will have a list of information they will ask of you. These questions will include:

Patient's age, weight, and condition
The strength of the Vicodin
When it was swallowed
The amount swallowed
If the medication was prescribed for the patient

Don't chance a Vicodin overdose. Call Meditox to find out how our Vicodin addiction treatment program can help you.

How is a Vicodin Overdose Treated?

In the majority of cases dealing with a Vicodin overdose, hospital staff will first determine if the heart is delivering oxygen to the body. If it isn't, a defibrillator will be used. To reduce the absorption of Vicodin in the body, gastric emptying may be prescribed either mechanically or with syrup of ipecac. Respiratory depression, which is common in opioid-based overdoses, may be stopped with a dose of narcotic antagonist, naloxone. Naloxone may be administered repeatedly until breathing is stable. Less serious treatments will include intravenous fluids and the utilization of vasopressors.

How Do I Avoid a Vicodin Overdose?

To avert a possible deadly overdose, make sure that your doctor is aware of all medication you are taking and their dosages. Acetaminophen is used in many over the counter medications and when mixed with Vicodin there is a huge potential to overdose. It is imperative that you do not use any medications without asking your doctor or pharmacist if it will cause an adverse effect with Vicodin. Abstaining from alcohol is also advised to prevent an increase of liver damage. Be sure that you never mix Vicodin with other narcotic drugs as this can cause life threatening breathing problems and possibly death.

Avoid a Vicodin Overdose Through Vicodin Addiction Treatment at Meditox

You can prevent a Vicodin overdose by getting help at Meditox. Our Vicodin treatment includes the buprenorphine-based prescription medications, Suboxone and Subutex Detox. Buprenorphine has been proven to shorten detox time and to eliminate withdrawal symptoms. At Meditox, our doctors are qualified with the necessary DEA identification number to provide in-office treatment for opiate addiction and prescriptions for ongoing medication. This allows our patients to be in treatment and continue their lives without Vicodin. Help is waiting. Call Meditox today.

If you feel that Meditox might be the right solution for you or your loved one, please call us for a toll-free and private consultation:

Additional Resources

RxList.com: Vicodin Overdose
WebMD.com: Vicodin Overdose

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