Buying Vicodin Without a Prescription: An Overview
Vicodin® (
hydrocodone/APAP) is a prescription pain medication. It is a narcotic and is classified as a
controlled substance in the United States. As such, it is subject to regulation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Because Vicodin is a controlled substance, there are strict rules for obtaining it, and there are strict fines and penalties for using or trying to buy it without a prescription.
Is It Safe to Use Vicodin Bought Without a Prescription?
It is not safe to use Vicodin that has been bought without a prescription, for various reasons, such as:
- As a prescription medication, Vicodin is not considered safe for use without a healthcare provider's supervision. Some people should not take the drug for certain health reasons, and Vicodin may interact with numerous other medications (both prescription and non-prescription). Without the supervision of a healthcare provider, people may be more likely to suffer dangerous side effects or toxicities due to Vicodin.
- Legitimate pharmacies will not sell Vicodin without a prescription. Because you can be assured that you are getting the "real thing" (not a counterfeit or expired medication) only from a legitimate pharmacy, buying the drug without a prescription increases your risk of getting a substandard or dangerous product. Some Web sites offer to provide a prescription for Vicodin after a "consultation," usually consisting of a short questionnaire. This is not considered a legitimate prescription, and no legitimate pharmacy would fill such prescriptions.
- Needing to buy Vicodin without a prescription is a good indication that you have a problem with Vicodin abuse or addiction. These problems are serious and can be life-threatening.