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Vicodin Withdrawal Symptoms and Treatment Options

  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Modified:
  • Reading Time: 12 minutes
  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Last Update:
  • Reading Time: 12 minutes

Learn about Vicodin withdrawal symptoms, timeline, and treatment options. Get expert guidance on managing withdrawal safely and finding professional support for recovery.

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It can be extremely scary to think about stopping a prescribed drug like Vicodin, illegal drugs, or alcohol. That feeling is completely valid. Just keep in mind that seeking professional help is something to be proud of. You’re making a solid choice for a healthier and happier tomorrow!

You could be thinking about what withdrawal will be like, including the symptoms that might appear and how long they could last. It’s natural to have questions about what’s next and how to find the support you need as you go through this process.

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Composition, Medical Uses, & Risks

What Is Vicodin?

Vicodin is one of the most addictive opioids on the market. It is a prescription drug for managing severe and moderate pain.

Vicodin is a medication that combines acetaminophen and hydrocodone. Acetaminophen is a common pain reliever found in Tylenol. Hydrocodone is a strong opioid that can be very addictive. Until 2014, the Drug Enforcement Administration labeled it as a Schedule III drug. This meant that someone could abuse it.

After realizing how easily people could misuse Vicodin, authorities changed it to a Schedule II substance. Now, only trained medical professionals can prescribe it, and they can do so only for severe and short-term pain.

Doctors are cautious with Vicodin because using it for a long time or taking too much can be risky. It can increase the risk of drug abuse. Doctors give Vicodin only when patients really need it. Doctors prescribe it only if you or your family have no risk of substance abuse. This careful approach helps ensure safety as you seek relief from pain.

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Causes & Symptoms

What Is Vicodin Withdrawal?

Sadly, some individuals take Vicodin just to feel high. When this happens, or if someone uses it for a long time, their body can start to rely on it.

If you’ve been using it daily and then try to stop all of a sudden, it can be tough. Your body might struggle to cope without the medication it has come to rely on.

Vicodin withdrawal is mental and physiological symptoms and stains that occur when you cease using Vicodin.

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Physical & Psychological Symptoms

What Are The Symptoms Of Vicodin Withdrawal?

When you run out of Vicodin, your body may start to experience withdrawal symptoms in just 6 hours. While they can hit you differently, some are very common.

Initial symptoms of Vicodin withdrawal include:

Agitation and anxiety

  • Inability to sleep
  • Intense cravings
  • Increased sweating
  • Aches and pains
  • Irritated sinuses
  • Runny nose
  • High blood pressure

Symptoms can show up in many ways, from mild to severe. That’s why contacting a doctor who understands detox and recovery is essential. These symptoms can be dangerous or even life-threatening in some situations.

1. Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea can strike suddenly, causing your stomach to feel upset and making you feel pretty awful. For some people, it can even lead to vomiting, which only adds to the discomfort of the whole experience.

2. Anxiety and Restlessness

Many people go through a tough time with anxiety when they are trying to live without Vicodin. This isn’t just a temporary issue; it can become a long-term source of stress or irritability. You might find it hard to relax because your mind seems to be constantly racing.

3. Insomnia and Restlessness

When you stop using opioids, it’s common to have trouble sleeping. This can make you feel very tired and a little irritable. You can find yourself tossing and turning for hours, with your brain buzzing with thoughts or stress. This lack of good sleep can make it more challenging to handle other withdrawal issues, creating a cycle of feeling bad.

4. Muscle Aches and Pains

Physical pain is a major part of withdrawing from Vicodin. You might feel like you have the flu, with your muscles aching and worn out. This pain is a clear sign of how much your body relied on the drug to feel okay.

5. Diarrhea and Stomach Cramps

If you suddenly stop using Vicodin, your stomach might not be happy about it. Many people deal with diarrhea and painful cramps, which can be exceedingly uncomfortable and kind of embarrassing. These issues can make it even harder to stay healthy and hydrated while going through withdrawal.

6. Changes In Mood and Behavior

Withdrawal can bring on some wild mood swings that seem to come from nowhere. You could find yourself feeling cranky, furious, or down in the dumps without any apparent cause.

This emotional rollercoaster can be hard to handle. It is not just difficult for you, but also for your loved ones. They may be confused and trying to understand what is happening.

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Timeline, Duration, & Stages

How Long Does Vicodin Withdrawal Last?

Specialists have tried to create a schedule for hydrocodone withdrawal. However, remember that everyone is different. Not everyone will have the same symptoms or experience them in the same way. It is a primer to help you understand what may occur during withdrawal.

Vicodin withdrawal usually starts eight to 24 hours after the last dose. It can last for 10 to 20 days. However, there is no fixed timeline for when it will end.

Many people find the first few days after discontinuing Vicodin very uncomfortable, with symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. As the withdrawal process continues, symptoms like mood swings, sleeplessness, and chills usually show up in the next few days.

What Are the Stages of Vicodin Withdrawal?

There is no one-size-fits-all withdrawal process. For some people, acute Vicodin withdrawal symptoms can start within hours.

For others, they may take a day or two to begin. These symptoms can last from several days to about a week. The post-acute phase often begins after about a week, which can linger for weeks to months.

Acute Withdrawal Phase

This is often the most challenging stage.

Day 1

You could begin to feel withdrawal symptoms within the first day after you stop taking Vicodin. For some people, they might experience mild flu-like feelings and some anxiety just 12 hours after their last dose.

Days 2-3

Symptoms generally peak around this period. You may experience symptoms like body aches, heavy sweating, and nausea. These can lead to vomiting or diarrhea.

Insomnia, severe cravings, and increased anxiety may also occur. It can be difficult, but understanding what to anticipate might help you get through it.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Phase

After the first wave of strong feelings goes away, you might still feel some symptoms, but they won’t be as bad. People who use a lot might still have some harsh symptoms for a few more days. For others, the symptoms might improve during the first week. You could still feel sick, not very hungry, have trouble sleeping, feel restless, crave the substance, and feel tired.

As you enter the second week, most people notice some positive changes. However, those who were very addicted might deal with withdrawal symptoms for weeks or even months.

It’s important to have a good support system during this time. This can include friends, family, or professionals from rehab programs. Relying on your support network can help, especially since this challenging time can last a while.

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Factors Influencing the Severity

What Are the Factors That Influence Vicodin Withdrawal?

It is pretty normal to become anxious about the thought of having to go through a painful withdrawal. However, do not let your fear stand in your way of getting help and living a life free of Vicodin. The speed of withdrawal can vary for each person. The symptoms can also change based on several factors, such as:

Amount of dosage

  • Metabolic rate
  • Frequency of use
  • Previous relapses
  • Method of use (injection, snorting, smoking, etc.)
  • General health status
  • Age of the individual
  • Duration of Vicodin use
  • Tapering plan
  • Use of other substances

Let us discuss some of these factors at length.

Length and Dosage Of Use

The time a person has been using Vicodin and the amount they take can make it harder to stop. If you have used it for a long time and at a high dose, withdrawal symptoms can be stronger. They may also last longer.

Individual Physiology and Genetics

Everybody reacts differently. Your genes may affect how severe and long your symptoms are. It’s important to pay attention to your body during this time.

Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders

Dealing with withdrawal while also struggling with mental health issues like stress, anxiety or depression can be incredibly challenging. Symptoms of opioid withdrawal can make your mental illness problems worse. This creates a tough situation where it feels like everything is getting worse.

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Effective Strategies

How To Manage Vicodin Withdrawal Symptoms?

It’s best to take a well-rounded approach to tackle your withdrawal symptoms. Check out these strategies that could make a difference:

Medical Detoxification

Medication-assisted detox merges conventional detox methods with FDA-approved tapering medications. During a medication-assisted opioid detox, you’ll receive medications designed to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and curb drug cravings. This method helps you focus on the root problems of your addiction. This can shorten the recovery time from the physical side effects of Vicodin abuse.

During withdrawal, doctors can prescribe different medications. One option is buprenorphine.

Professionals often recommend it as a safer substitute opioid. It helps manage cravings and reduces the risk of relapse. Other medications that might be used include:

  • Metoclopramide helps with nausea and vomiting to make your stomach feel better.
  • Hyoscine Butylbromid, which can relieve stomach cramps.
  • Loperamide, which helps control diarrhea so your stomach can settle.
  • Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen, which are good for easing headaches or muscle aches.
  • Promethazine, which can help you sleep more soundly.

Your doctor and the medical detox team can help you choose the best medications for your Vicodin withdrawal.

Therapy and Support Groups

If you are struggling with withdrawal symptoms, it is important to talk to your healthcare team. This is especially true if others think you should be in the post-acute phase. They can help you with behavioral and group therapy. They are here to support you and give the assistance you require at every step of your way during this process.

Your healthcare provider might suggest that you combine your MAT with sessions from a drug and alcohol counselor. Counseling can be helpful. It teaches you how to handle stress.

It helps you notice early signs of relapse. It also keeps you focused on staying away from opioids. Many experts believe that continuing counseling even after completing your detox is the best idea.

Opioids can be very addictive. If you are struggling with withdrawal, a support system is important. If you and your doctor think you might have an opioid use disorder, consider joining a support group. One option is Narcotics Anonymous.

These groups are run by people who have gone through similar challenges and can offer a strong support network for those trying to quit. Also, talking to your religious or spiritual advisor can give you extra support and encouragement on your journey.

Self-Care and Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Stopping medication can be hard, but there are many self-care strategies and healthy coping methods to try. Here are some that might help:

Talk to Someone  

It can be challenging to reach out, but talking about your thoughts and feelings with someone you trust can help. Whether it’s a friend, a family member, or a therapist, connecting with others can give you the support and comfort you need.

Create a Self-Care Box  

When you’re not feeling great due to the pain of withdrawal, knowing how to take care of yourself can be tricky. Making a self-care box when you’re feeling good can give you something to turn to during more challenging times. Fill it with things that make you feel better, like:

  • A soothing scented candle or lavender sachet.
  • A cozy blanket or comfy slippers.
  • A stress ball or fidget toy to keep your hands busy.
  • Anything that helps you unwind or offers a distraction.
  • Photos that bring you joy.
  • Your go-to books, movies, or music.
  • Inspirational quotes or uplifting notes.

Keep a Mood Diary  

Writing down your feelings and how your medication affects you can help you keep track of your progress. Make notes about when you started reducing your doses, what amounts you’ve taken, and how they’ve influenced your mood. It can help you notice patterns and catch early signs that things might be getting tough.

Be Open to Changing Your Plans  

Remember, stopping medication isn’t about winning or losing. It’s about finding what works best for you at any time. You might need to reduce your dosage more slowly or stay at a certain level longer than you thought. It’s a slow process, so be kind to yourself.

Feeling let down is normal if things aren’t going as well as you wanted. But don’t give up hope—this doesn’t mean you can’t stop taking the medication later if that’s what you want. And remember, it’s OK to change your mind about stopping at any point.

Take Care of Your Emotional Well-Being

Explore Relaxation Techniques: You might want to incorporate meditation and yoga into your everyday life. These practices can be incredibly helpful during withdrawal, allowing you to discover moments of tranquility amidst the turmoil. They promote relaxation and enhance your overall health, making the entire journey easier to navigate.

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Getting The Help You Need

Vicodin Addiction Treatment at Rolling Hills Recovery Center

If you or someone you care about is having trouble with Vicodin use, it’s important to ask for help. At Rolling Hills Recovery Center, we are dedicated to supporting you.

Our drug and alcohol rehab program is supervised by medical professionals. This ensures your comfort in a safe and caring environment as you go through prescription opioid withdrawal. We aim to make this process as smooth as possible while helping you take the next steps in your recovery journey.

You’ll be connected with one of our compassionate and knowledgeable treatment advisors when you contact us. They will assist you in determining if our opioid addiction treatment program aligns with your needs. If it seems like a good choice, we will do a quick pre-assessment. We will also offer a free health insurance benefit check with no obligation.

We accept coverage from most major national health insurance companies. We also accept many regional providers in New Jersey and nearby areas.

Don’t hesitate to take that crucial first step toward recovery. Contact us today to discover more about Vicodin addiction and how we can assist you on your healing journey. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

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Written By:

Geoffrey Andaria

Geoffrey Andaria mental health writer at rolling hills recovery center
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Mental Health Writer

About Author:

Geoffrey Andaria is an experienced mental health content writer and editor. With a B.A. in English and Journalism, Geoffrey is highly educated in freelance articles and research. Having taken courses on social work, Geoffrey is adamant about providing valuable and educational information to individuals affected by mental health and the disease of addiction.

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Carl Williams Ph.D., LCADC

Carl Williams, medical content reviewer at rolling hills recovery center
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Expert Contributor

About Reviewer:

Dr. Williams presently serves on the board of Directors for two non-profit service organizations. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University, Philadelphia, Pa, and a Ph.D. with a concentration in Clinical Psychology from Union Institute and University. In Cincinnati, Ohio. He is licensed to practice addictions counseling in both New Jersey and Connecticut and has a pending application as a practicing Psychologist in New Jersey.

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