Can You Shoot Vicodin?
Cami Renzoni is a creative writer and editor for The Recovery Village. As an advocate for behavioral health, Cami is certified in... read more
Dr. Jessica Pyhtila is a Clinical Pharmacy Specialist based in Baltimore, Maryland with practice sites in... read more
Vicodin contains a semi-synthetic opioid prescription drug. It is used to help manage moderate to severe pain, typically experienced after major surgery or from painful injuries. The drug is also commonly prescribed for individuals who suffer from other forms of chronic pain, although using opioids for chronic, non-cancer pain is currently not generally recommended. Vicodin comes in tablet form with three commercial dosages which are meant to be taken orally. These dosages include:
- Hydrocodone 5 mg with acetaminophen 300 mg
- Hydrocodone 7.5 mg with acetaminophen 300 mg (Vicodin ES)
- Hydrocodone 10 mg with acetaminophen 300 mg (Vicodin HP)
The danger associated with excessive use of Vicodin is the risk of overdose. Hydrocodone is used to alter a person’s perception of pain and acetaminophen is used as a pain-killer. Additionally, while acetaminophen itself is considered to be non-addictive, too much of it can cause liver damage. Misuse of Vicodin, beyond what is prescribed by a physician, is a concern as there is a possibility for liver failure, addiction, dependence and overdose.
However, when people abuse the drug they often seek out other methods of consumption that deliver the substance more quickly to the brain. Often, people either smoke Vicodin or shoot it into their veins. Before a person can introduce Vicodin into their system by either of these means, the tablets need to be crushed or dissolved into a solution.
However, because the onset of the drug is quicker when it is smoked, the effects will not last as long as when it’s taken orally. When smoking the drug, additional substances like binders and fillers that are used in creating the tablet are inhaled as well. Since the body does not absorb these chemicals, this method is especially dangerous and damages the body.
Some people try other things to enhance their experience when smoking Vicodin, like combining it with marijuana. This can be dangerous as this combination impairs motor skills and judgment and can impact normal breathing.
The dangers of shooting Vicodin are similar to those of smoking the drug. However, the risk of infection is much higher when injecting Vicodin. Someone who injects Vicodin may contract bacterial infections or viruses such as HIV, hepatitis B or hepatitis C.
Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
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