As the body builds up a dependence on Vicodin, it also builds up resistance against the drug. This means it takes more and more of the painkiller over time to get the same effect, which leads to an endless cycle of overuse and addiction, in which users need more and more of the prescription medication to stop their symptoms of withdrawal.
Despite its ability to make the body feel no pain, though, which is one of the medication’s top draws for many abusers, Vicodin has negative effects on the body as well. The main short-term side effect of Vicodin use is constipation, according to The Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide. It is so common with Vicodin use, according to Harvard, that doctors often recommend that patients begin taking a stool softener or a laxative as soon as they start a pain-relief regimen that includes Vicodin to counteract the negative effects of the substance.