Hydrocodone is a narcotic pain reliever often paired with acetaminophen and sold under brand names like Vicodin. It can cause side effects like nausea, drowsiness, and constipation, and is addictive. It should only be taken as directed and kept away from children.
Hydrocodone, which may be sold under brand names such as Vicodin, Lorcet or Norco, is a narcotic drug used primarily as a pain reliever. It is widely available in generic forms and often paired with acetaminophen to enhance pain relief. It is also occasionally sold in prescription cough syrups. The drug is a controlled substance and is addictive, especially when used in a way not recommended by your doctor.
The method of creating hydrocodone was first developed in the 1920s, and the drug has been on the market since the 1940s in the United States. It is often thought to be especially effective for people who have trouble taking codeine. Some people can develop allergic reactions such as itching to codeine, in which case Vicodin® or other brand names or generics may be a great alternative.
There are side effects to taking this drug. If taken on an empty stomach, it can intensify its pain-relieving effects, but it causes severe nausea in some people. Other common side effects include lightheadedness, drowsiness, and lightheadedness. Long-term use can also cause significant constipation. The drug is not recommended for nursing or pregnant women and should not be used by people with breathing difficulties as it can reduce breathing. People taking carbamazepine (Tegretol®) for conditions such as manic depression should only use this medication under the guidance of their doctor.
One of the main things you should know about this drug, when used for pain relief, is that it usually contains acetaminophen. Because of the risks to your liver if you take too much acetaminophen, you shouldn’t use other pain relievers that contain it when you take hydrocodone. Taking too much can cause you to take unsafe levels of acetaminophen. The amount of acetaminophen varies in prescription strengths, but can be equivalent to about 300-500 milligrams. This is approximately the same as a regular strength Tylenol® or an extra strength. According to a doctor’s guidelines, if the pain is severe, you may be able to take a second regular tablet of Tylenol®, but not if you plan to take more than one pill of hydrocodone within a six-hour period.
Another important aspect of hydrocodone is its addictive nature. It should only be taken as directed, and the drug has been increasingly abused in recent years. Any controlled substance should only be used for its intended purpose, and any leftover medications should be kept away from children and adolescents who may be at high risk of prescription drug abuse. If you want to use an advanced prescription in the future, ask your doctor if it’s appropriate to use the medication first.
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