Hydrocodone

Hydrocodone is a partially synthetic opiate drug used primarily used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is an inexpensive drug and can only be obtained with a prescription drug due to its addictiveness. This is why you should Never share this medicine with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction.

Hydrocodone is one of the main active ingredients in several common prescription painkillers, probably the most notable being Vicodin. according to Consumer Reports Hydrocodone products are the most commonly prescribed drugs in America,

Hydrocodone is an opiate drug that affects levels of dopamine in the brain. When an individual takes hydrocodone regularly for a length of time, the brain can become tolerant to the amounts taken, and in order to continue to feel its effects, more of the drug will need to be taken each time. Taking more hydrocodone at once may increase the brain’s level of dependency to the drug, however, and an addiction may form.

This medicine should be only used as directed by your doctor. Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. This is especially important for elderly patients, who may be more sensitive to the effects of pain medicines. If too much of this medicine is taken for a long time, it may become habit-forming (causing mental or physical dependence) or cause an overdose. Large amounts of acetaminophen may cause liver damage.

This medicine should come with a Medication Guide and patient information leaflet. Read the information carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

Measure the oral liquid with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, dropper, or medicine cup. The average household teaspoon may not hold the right amount of liquid.

This combination medicine contains acetaminophen (Tylenol®). Carefully check the labels of all other medicines you are using, because they may also contain acetaminophen. It is not safe to use more than 4 grams (4,000 milligrams) of acetaminophen in one day (24 hours).

Dosage should be adjusted according to the severity of the pain and the response of the patient. However, it should be kept in mind that tolerance to hydrocodone can develop with continued use and that the incidence of untoward effects is dose related.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children. And do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Flush any unused tablets down the toilet.

Stop using hydrocodone and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • weak or shallow breathing;
  • pain or burning when you urinate;
  • confusion, tremors, severe drowsiness;
  • a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
  • infertility, missed menstrual periods;
  • impotence, sexual problems, loss of interest in sex; or
  • low cortisol levels – nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, worsening tiredness or weakness.