hydrocodone abuse

Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen

(hye dreo KOE done and ah see ta MIH no fen)

Brand Names: Anexsia, Dolacet, Lorcet, Lortab, Norco, Vicodin, Zydone

Important information about hydrocodone

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 hydrocodone and acetaminophen is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

Avoid alcohol while taking hydrocodone and acetaminophen . 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.

Hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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 hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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.

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.

What is hydrocodone?

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, hydrocodone and acetaminophen are used to relieve moderate-to-severe pain.

Hydrocodone and acetaminophen may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

How should I take hydrocodone?

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.

Store hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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 hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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 are the possible side effects of hydrocodone?

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.

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 hydrocodone?

Do not take hydrocodone and acetaminophen 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.

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 hydrocodone and acetaminophen . Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

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Hydrocodone 2004-2005