Vicodin

Pronounced: VY-koe-din
Generic ingredients: Hydrocodone bitartrate, Acetaminophen
Other brand names: Anexsia, Co-Gesic, Hydrocet, Lorcet, Lortab, Maxidone, Norco, Zydone

Why is this drug prescribed?

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Vicodin combines a narcotic analgesic (painkiller) and cough reliever with a non-narcotic analgesic for the relief of moderate to moderately severe pain.

Most important fact about this drug

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Vicodin can be habit-forming. If you take this drug over a long period of time, you can become mentally and physically dependent on it, and you may find the drug no longer works for you at the prescribed dosage.

 

How should you take this medication?

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Take Vicodin exactly as prescribed. Do not increase the amount you take or the frequency without your doctor's approval. Do not take this drug for any reason other than the one prescribed.

Do not give this drug to others who may have similar symptoms.

--If you miss a dose...

If you take Vicodin regularly, take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from light.

What side effects may occur?

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Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Vicodin.

 

  • More common side effects may include:
    Dizziness, light-headedness, nausea, sedation, vomiting

If these side effects occur, it may help if you lie down after taking the medication.

 

  • Less common or rare side effects may include:
    Allergic reactions, anxiety, blood disorders, constipation, decreased mental and physical capability, difficulty urinating, drowsiness, fear, hearing loss, itching, mental clouding, mood changes, restlessness, skin rash, slowed breathing, sluggishness

Why should this drug not be prescribed?

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If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to hydrocodone or acetaminophen (Tylenol), you should not take this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Special warnings about this medication

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Vicodin may make you drowsy, less alert, or unable to function well physically. Do not drive a car, operate machinery, or perform any other potentially dangerous activities until you know how this drug affects you.

Use caution in taking Vicodin if you have a head injury. Narcotics tend to increase the pressure of the fluid within the skull, and this effect may be exaggerated by head injuries. Side effects of narcotics can interfere in the treatment of people with head injuries.

Use Vicodin with caution if you have a severe liver or kidney disorder, an underactive thyroid gland, Addison's disease (a disease of the adrenal glands), an enlarged prostate, or urethral stricture (narrowing of the tube carrying urine from the bladder).

Older adults and those in a weakened condition should be careful using this drug, since it contains a narcotic.

Narcotics such as Vicodin may interfere with the diagnosis and treatment of people with abdominal conditions.

Hydrocodone suppresses the cough reflex; therefore, be careful using Vicodin after an operation or if you have a lung disease.

High doses of hydrocodone may produce slowed breathing; if you are sensitive to this drug, you are more likely to experience this effect.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication

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Hydrocodone slows the nervous system. Alcohol can intensify this effect.

If hydrocodone is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either may be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Vicodin with the following:

Antianxiety drugs such as Valium and Librium
Antidepressant medications classified as "tricyclics," such as Elavil and Tofranil
Antihistamines such as Tavist
Drugs classified as MAO inhibitors, including the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate
Major tranquilizers such as Thorazine and Haldol
Other narcotic analgesics such as Demerol
Other central nervous system depressants such as Halcion and Restoril

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

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The effects of Vicodin in pregnancy have not been adequately studied. Do not take this drug if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant unless you are directed to do so by your doctor. Drug dependence occurs in newborns when the mother has taken this drug regularly prior to delivery. If you take it shortly before delivery, the baby's breathing may be slowed. Acetaminophen does, and hydrocodone may, appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding your baby until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage

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ADULTS
Your doctor will adjust the dosage according to the severity of the pain and the way the medication affects you.

The dosages given below are for Vicodin products only. If your doctor prescribes other brands, your daily dose may vary.

All forms of Vicodin are taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. The usual dose of Vicodin is 1 or 2 tablets, up to a maximum of 8 tablets per day. The usual dose of Vicodin HP is 1 tablet, up to a maximum of 6 tablets per day. For Vicodin ES, the usual dose is 1 tablet, up to a maximum of 5 tablets per day.

CHILDREN
The safety and effectiveness of Vicodin have not been established in children.

Overdosage

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Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. A severe overdose of Vicodin can be fatal. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.

 

  • Symptoms of a Vicodin overdose include:
    Blood disorders, bluish tinge to skin, cold and clammy skin, extreme sleepiness progressing to a state of unresponsiveness or coma, general feeling of bodily discomfort, heart problems, heavy perspiration, kidney problems, limp muscles, liver failure, low blood pressure, nausea, slow heartbeat, troubled or slowed breathing, vomiting


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VicodinVicodinVicodin

Vicodin

acetaminophen and hydrocodone (ah see ta MIH no fen and hye dreo KOE done)
Anexsia, Anolor DH5, Bancap HC, Dolacet, Lorcet 10/650, Lorcet HD, Lorcet Plus, Lortab, Lortab 10, Lortab 5/500, Lortab 7.5/500, Lortab Elixir, Norco, T-Gesic, Vicodin, Vicodin ES, Vicodin HP, Zydone
     


 

What is the most important information I should know about Vicodin?
• Vicodin is habit forming. It is possible become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Vicodin is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
• Avoid alcohol while taking Vicodin. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by the medication, possibly resulting in unconsciousness and death. Also, acetaminophen can be damaging to the liver when taken with alcohol.
• Vicodin may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Vicodin is taken with any of these medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
• Vicodin may cause constipation. Drink plenty of water (six to eight full glasses a day) to lessen this side effect. Increased fiber in the diet may also help to alleviate constipation.


 

What is Vicodin?
• Hydrocodone (related to codeine) is in a class of drugs called narcotic analgesics. It relieves pain.
• Acetaminophen is a less potent pain reliever that increases the effects of hydrocodone.
• Together, Vicodin is used to relieve moderate-to-severe pain.
• Vicodin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.


 

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Vicodin?
• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
       · a history of alcohol or drug abuse;
       · kidney disease;
       · liver disease;
       · asthma;
       · urinary retention;
       · an enlarged prostate;
       · hypothyroidism;
       · seizures or epilepsy;
       · gallbladder disease;
       · a head injury; or
       · Addison's disease.
• You may not be able to take Vicodin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Vicodin is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• Vicodin passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
• If you are younger than 18 years of age or older than 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Vicodin. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose.


 

How should I take Vicodin?
• Take Vicodin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass of water.
• Take Vicodin with food or milk if it causes stomach upset.
• To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of Vicodin with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
• Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Vicodin is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
• Vicodin may cause constipation. Drink plenty of water (six to eight full glasses a day) to lessen this side effect. Increased fiber in the diet may also help to alleviate constipation.
• Store Vicodin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.


 

What happens if I miss a dose?
• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take a double dose of this medication. Wait the prescribed amount of time before taking the next dose.


 

What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of an Vicodin overdose may include slow breathing, seizures, dizziness, weakness, loss of consciousness, coma, confusion, tiredness, cold and clammy skin, small pupils, nausea, vomiting, and sweating.


 

What should I avoid while taking Vicodin?
• Avoid alcohol while taking Vicodin. Alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by the medication, possibly resulting in unconsciousness and death. Also, acetaminophen can be damaging to the liver when taken with alcohol.
• Vicodin may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Vicodin is taken with any of these medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Hydrocodone may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities.
• Other products may also contain acetaminophen, especially over-the-counter pain, fever, cold, and allergy medications. Do not take any other products that contain acetaminophen without first talking to your doctor. Too much acetaminophen can be dangerous.


 

What are the possible side effects of Vicodin?
• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Vicodin and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
       · an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
       · slow, weak breathing;
       · seizures;
       · cold, clammy skin;
       · severe weakness or dizziness;
       · unconsciousness;
       · yellowing of the skin or eyes; or
       · unusual fatigue, bleeding, or bruising.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Vicodin and talk to your doctor if you experience
       · constipation;
       · dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite;
       · dizziness, tiredness, or lightheadedness;
       · muscle twitches;
       · sweating;
       · itching;
       · decreased urination; or
       · decreased sex drive.
• Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Vicodin is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.


 

What other drugs will affect Vicodin?
• Do not take Vicodin if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. Dangerous side effects could result.
• Vicodin may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if Vicodin is taken with any of these medications. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
• Other products may also contain acetaminophen, especially over-the-counter pain, fever, cold, and allergy medications. Do not take any other products that contain acetaminophen without first talking to your doctor. Too much acetaminophen can be dangerous.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Vicodin. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.


 

Where can I get more information?
• Your pharmacist has additional information about Vicodin written for health professionals that you may read.

 

• Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
• Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Cerner Multum, Inc. ('Multum') is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Multum information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Multum does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Multum's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Multum's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.