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How Vicodin works in the body
Vicodin is
often prescribed by doctors to treat moderate to severe pain. However, due
to its tendency to create addiction in users, it would be a good idea to learn
the working of this drug, how it affects our body etc. It is the
hydrocodone
element in Vicodin that is responsible for bringing about pain relief by dulling
the senses at the point of origin of pain.
Hydrocodone is opium-derived and is equivalent to morphine in its effects. When
consumed, the Vicodin attaches itself to the opium receptors present in the
brain which reduces the brain’s capacity to perceive and feel pain. When these
cells are non receptive, you do not feel the pain and hence brings about pain
relief. It can cause sedate and euphoric feelings, pushing you in to a state of
‘high’.
Vicodin shares the properties of all known opioids and acts as a central nervous system depressant. This invariably results in slow reflects and low perception to external stimuli. This is why it is strongly advised not to drive or handle heavy machinery when you are under the influence of this drug. Regular consumption of Vicodin can result in a wide array of side effects ranging from dizziness, nausea, vomiting, respiratory depression and so on.
However, when consumed in excess or when the patient does not stick to the instructions of the doctor, the after effects can be quite serious, fatal even. When consumes, it takes about an hour for the full impact to be felt. However, the onset of pain reduction happens almost immediately. For quicker results, some people tend to crush it into a powder form and then take it. This practice is highly dangerous and hence needs to be discouraged.
The after effects of taking Vicodin can last up to 6 hours depending upon the dosage and the patient. Care should be taken that it is not taken more than what is prescribed by the doctor. People tend to combine it with alcohol and other central nervous system depressants for quicker results, but this is known to cause serious complications and may result in even death.
Doctors generally tend not to prescribe Vicodin for people who have a known history of alcohol and drug addiction. They wouldn't want to add Vicodin to the list. Also, the doctor needs to be apprised of your medical history so as to prescribe the exact safe dosage to be administered.