Vicodin Addiction Treatment

Counseling, in both group and individual forms, is helpful during treatment for Vicodin addiction.

According to the NIDA, “Several options are available for effectively treating prescription opioid addiction. These options are drawn from research on the treatment of heroin addiction and include medications (e.g., naltrexone, methadone, and buprenorphine) as well as behavioral counseling approaches.” Treatment for Vicodin addiction is the same as treatment for all other types of opioid addictions and depends on the patient and doctor working together to choose the treatment type that is best to fit the needs of the patient.

Some of the possible options for Vicodin addiction treatment are as follows:

Medication

• Naltrexone
  Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that is a wonderful treatment for individuals who are extremely serious about ending their Vicodin addictions. The drug does precipitate opioid withdrawal in anyone who is dependent on opioids and, therefore, is sometimes not well-tolerated by many patients. However, those who are looking to stop abusing Vicodin fast, like doctors and nurses, could benefit incredibly from the use of naltrexone.
• Methadone
  Methadone is a synthetic opioid that is often used in long-term maintenance treatment. It block the opioid receptors and eases withdrawal symptoms so that a person can live their life comfortably while also being treated for Vicodin addiction.
• Buprenorphine
  Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist and is well-tolerated by patients while also being less intense and having less of a possibility for abuse than methadone. Because buprenorphine is often sold as a combination product called Suboxone that also contains naloxone, it can precipitate withdrawal in a patient who abuses it.

Therapy

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  CBT is probably one of the most commonly used therapies when it comes to the treatment of opioid addiction. Patients learn better coping skills and ways to fight their cravings for Vicodin, avoid and deal with their triggers, and find a new way to look at their addictions which creates a much healthier lifestyle.
• Group therapy
  In group therapy, patients are able to discuss their feelings without being judged and are able to share their problems with those who understand what they are going through.
• Other behavioral treatments
  Family therapy, contingency management, and 12 step programs are also beneficial for some patients.

Though Vicodin is one of the most commonly abused prescription drugs, there are many treatment options for those in need and, over time, treatment for Vicodin addiction can lead to recovery.