Not sure I am in the right place
 

I was just looking up a question about Vicodin use and ended up here. I have been taking Vicodin pretty much every day for over a year. I started out taking it for a back problem, which I still have, but my pain is not at Vicodin levels anymore. The problem is I can't stop taking the pills. Here's the thing though. I only take one a night. I think the most I have taken in a day is three. But I HAVE to take one or I feel ill and jittery. Am I really addicted? I'm so worried that I can't stop. I read about others taking so many in a day and feel like I shouldn't be here. But like I said, I can't stop taking even that one a day and I don't have anyone else to talk to about this. I am under my husband's insurance, so have been hesitant to go to a doctor about this. I hope someone out there is listening and will correspond with me. Thanks for listening!

(((MrsScarlet)) - Welcome to SR! I can't tell you whether you are addicted or not, but I do know that when I used drugs that I really didn't need? There's a problem.

You don't have to answer "am I an addict" right now, but you may want to think about taking a potent medicine when you really don't need it.

I hope you read around on other posts, as you will find you're not alone.

Hugs and prayers,

Amy

Hey MrsScarlet,

Vicodin is an addictive drug, whether its being used "legitimately" or not. Your body will build a tolerance/dependence on it and you Will have withdrawal symptoms, especially if you've been taking it for so long. I've had broken wrists and numerous surgeries where I prescribed pain meds for legitimate pain, but getting off was not fun. It should definitely be supervised by a physician who is familiar enough w/ it.

There are other groups on here as well that address "addiction" to drugs (vs. alcohol, etc.), and I'm sure more folks will post here for you. This is a great place to be :) Good luck with your journey.

Hi MrsScarlet

I agree with the advice you've gotten here so far.
I hope you will decide to see a Dr.

You'll find a lot of support here - I'm really glad you found us :)

D

see a doctor as Dee suggested for safe detoxing.

Thanks!
 

Thanks so much for the replies. Im so glad to have someplace to come. I only have one Vicodin left. I am going to try and refill because I have heard that its not recommended to go cold turkey and I can't take off work right now to try and work through going cold turkey even if I wanted to. But I have found a phone number of a doctor that deals with addictions and will make an appointment as soon as possible to see if he can help me. I wish everyone here luck with your own recovery!

Welcome, MrsScarlet -

I think you're being really smart about this - first, by admitting you can't stop on your own and second, by getting the help you need. I don't think it matters that it's "just one pill a day" - a lot of addictions start like that.

Lots of support here whenever you need it......:biggrin: