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GENERIC
NAME: hydrocodone/acetaminophen
BRAND
NAMES: Vicodin, Vicodin ES, Anexsia, Lorcet,
Lorcet Plus, Norco
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM:
Hydrocodone is a narcotic pain-reliever and a
cough suppressant, similar to codeine. The
precise mechanism of pain relief by hydrocodone
and other narcotics is not known. Acetaminophen
is a non-narcotic analgesic (pain reliever) and
antipyretic (fever reducer). Acetaminophen
relieves pain by elevating the pain threshold.
It reduces fever through its action on the heat
regulating center of the brain. Frequently,
hydrocodone and acetaminophen are combined to
achieve pain relief, as in Vicodin and Lortab.
For more information please see acetaminophen
(Tylenol).
PRESCRIPTION:
yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE:
yes
PREPARATIONS: Among the
many brands the dose of acetaminophen ranges
between 500 and 750 mg, and the dose of
hydrocodone ranges between 2.5 and 10
mg.
STORAGE: Store at room
temperature, sealed, light- resistant
container.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Hydrocodone
is prescribed for the relief of moderate to
moderately severe pain.
DOSING: Should be taken
with food.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Hydrocodone can depress breathing, and is used
with caution in elderly, debilitated patients
and in patients with serious lung disease.
Hydrocodone can impair thinking and the physical
abilities required for driving or operating
machinery. Alcohol and other sedatives, such as
Xanax, can produce further brain impairment and
even confusion when combined with hydrocodone.
Hydrocodone is generally avoided in children.
Hydrocodone may be habit forming. Mental and
physical dependence can occur, but are unlikely
when used for short-term pain
relief.
PREGNANCY: Hydrocodone is
generally avoided in pregnant
women.
NURSING MOTHERS:
Hydrocodone is generally avoided in nursing
mothers.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most
frequent adverse reactions include
lightheadedness, dizziness, sedation, nausea,
and vomiting. Other side effects include
drowsiness, constipation, and spasm of the
ureter, which can lead to difficulty in
urinating. |
