can vicodin cause uncontrolable shaking when you stop taking it ?

Dear Anonymous,

Vicodin is in a category of drugs known as narcotics. When taken as prescribed, there should not be any adverse or withdrawal effects once stopped. How long ago did you stop taking it? and how long did you take it for? Keep in mind that Vicodin is composed of acetaminophen (Tylenol), which can cause liver damage when taken for a long period of time and Hydrocodone-- which is an opioid.

One of the side effects of Vicodin are seizures-- and you mention uncontrollable shaking which could perhaps be a seizure but this is usually a side effect when you're ON the medication, not off. 

Withdrawal effects, on the other hand, include:

• body aches and pains
• intestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps
• loss of appetite
• nervousness, restlessness, or irritability
• chills, shivering, or trembling
• trouble sleeping
• fast heartbeat
• fevers
• runny nose or eyes, and sneezing
• gooseflesh
• increased sweating
• increased yawning
• dilated (unusually large) pupils
• depression

If you suspect that you may be having withdrawals, please contact your doctor ASAP as you may have to actually be weaned off the medication, instead of stopping it at once.

Best Wishes,

Rosa