Vicodin
Generic Name:
Hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen
Brand Names:
Vicodin, Vicodin ES, Vicodin HP, Anexsia, Dolacet, Lorcet, Lortab, Norco
Vicodin Description:
Vicodin is a narcotic pain reliever, also known as an opioid analgesic, used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain. Vicodin also has cough suppressant properties, with properties similar to codeine.
Vicodin Uses:
Vicodin is indicated for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. The medication is a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen, and it relieves pain by acting on the central nervous system and suppressing the cough reflex.
Vicodin Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendation:
Vicodin is available as a 5 mg hydrocodone bitartrate/500 mg acetaminophen tablet.
The dosage of Vicodin depends on the level of pain and the patient’s response to treatment, but typical dosage is one or two tablets taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Patients should not take more than 8 tablets per day.
Missing a Dose:
Vicodin is usually taken as needed for pain, but if your doctor has told you to take it regularly and you forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and wait to return to your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of Vicodin.
Overdosing:
An overdose can occur if too much Vicodin is taken or if it is combined with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants. Seek emergency medical attention if you believe you have overdosed. Symptoms of overdose include:
- Respiratory depression (decrease in respiratory rate, a bluish color of the skin and mucous membranes)
- Extreme sleepiness (somnolence)
- Coma
- Muscle weakness
- Cold or clammy skin
- Apnea
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Cardiac arrest
Liver damage can occur if too much acetaminophen is taken. Each tablet of Vicodin contains 500 mg acetaminophen, and you should not take more than 4000 mg per day.
Vicodin FDA Approval:
January 7, 1983
Vicodin Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There is currently no Black Box warning on Vicodin.
Other Warnings
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning in May 2009, concerning the potential safety risks associated with medications containing acetaminophen. The FDA now requires labeling to include warnings about the risk of internal bleeding and liver damage associated with acetaminophen. Exceeding the recommended dosage of acetaminophen may increase the risk for severe liver damage, and the use of alcohol may also increase the risk of negative effects.
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May 9, 2011, 1:27 pm
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