In as little as five days of prescribed use, the risk for developing a chronic hydrocodone addiction increases significantly. Unlike natural opiates morphine and codeine, hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid. Generally, doctors may decide to write a hydrocodone (brand name Vicodin) prescription to treat short-term pain following dental surgery or for injury-related pain. However, due to the addictive nature of opioids, regular use of hydrocodone can be habit-forming. Once the body becomes dependent on hydrocodone to feel normal, trying to quit taking them will result in symptoms of withdrawal.