Sometimes, we can learn lessons from some of the most unlikely places. Perhaps one of the best examples is the acclaimed television series House. Considered one of the best medical dramas of the early 2000s, the award-winning story about a cantankerous doctor and his tough-as-nails, unconventional approach to his practice attracted the attention of audiences across the country. However, what definitely rose many eyebrows was a subplot about the doctor’s addiction to an opioid painkiller. Eventually, Dr. Gregory House and his attachment to Vicodin ascended from episodic sideline to a full-blown pain medication addiction that resulted in his character’s rehabilitation between seasons. Let’s take a closer look at how the TV series House portrays Vicodin addiction.
A Strong Dose of Reality
In an interesting and dangerous twist, Hugh Laurie, the actor who portrayed Dr. Gregory House, admitted that he had experimented with the painkiller to prepare for the role. In a 2008 interview with Radio Times (Britain), Laurie explained that he would never condone the use of this painkiller for any reason. Once he took the drug, he confirmed a pleasurable feeling of floating and euphoria.
Ironically, in 2011, one year before the show went off the air, the Daily Mail confirmed a major boost in the use of Vicodin among Americans. In fact, over the previous 5 years, from 2006 to 2011, people were using 19 million more prescriptions for this opioid than in the years before.
Was the Story Truthful?
So, in the end, did Dr. House perfectly portray pain medication addiction? In simple terms, the answer is “yes.” Overall, Vicodin is a powerful drug that can easily numb pain in the same manner as morphine and can be just as powerful as heroin. Utilizing a mixture of hydrocodone and other narcotics, Vicodin is listed as a Schedule III drug. Meaning it has a high potential for addiction or abuse. However, due to this low regulation, people can easily get their hands on this painkiller. Even if they follow the rules, they can still develop a dependency on this drug.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Sometimes, we aren’t fully prepared for the true danger of the Opioid Crisis. After all, it is sometimes hard to believe that our country is suffering from such a dangerous epidemic. Nevertheless, it is important to learn about the drugs that are destroying peoples’ lives. For decades, dangerous opioid painkillers like Vicodin, OxyContin, and morphine have triggered the untimely deaths of people across the United States. However, you can take the first steps to put your life back on track. Drugs do not control you.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of opioid withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
