Vicodin

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.

General medical information about Vicodin

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.

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 you should find out 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 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.

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.

If you 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 you 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.

Avoid while taking Vicodin

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.

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.

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.

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.