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Hydrocodone Additional Brand Names for this medication are:
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
Hydrocodone is a habit forming drug. 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 hydrocodone and acetaminophen is stopped suddenly after
several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual
reduction in dose.
Hydrocodone Directions?
Take hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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 hydrocodone and acetaminophen with food or milk if it causes
stomach upset.
• To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of
hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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 Side Effects?
Hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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.
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.
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop
taking hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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 hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking
hydrocodone?
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 hydrocodone and acetaminophen , or you
may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during
treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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.
Hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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
hydrocodone and acetaminophen . Your doctor may prescribe a lower
dose.
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