Arrested influence vicodin |
What is Vicodin?
Hydrocodone is in a group of drugs called narcotic pain relievers. Vicodin is a trademarked brand of narcotic analgesics (painkillers) containing hydrocodone and paracetamol (acetaminophen or, more-completely, para-acetylaminophenol). It is usually found in tablet form with either the names Vicodin, Vicodin ES, or Vicodin HP imprinted on one side. Analgesics with the same chemical composition and a similar physical appearance are found under many other trade names, including Anexsia, Anolor DH5, Bancap HC, Dolacet, Hydro, Lorcet, Lortab, Norco, T-Gesic, Tramacet and Vadunk.
The hydrocodone/paracetamol drug formula is also available under generic brands. The paracetamol in the formula increases the effects of the hydrocodone in relieving pain but also discourages drug abuse since the doses needed for recreation would have toxic amounts of paracetamol. Oral hydrocodone is considered 4-7 times as potent as oral morphine, though the equianalgesic dose varies between patients.
Acetaminophen is a less potent pain reliever that increases the effects of hydrocodone. Vicodin is a tablet containing a combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone.
Off-Label Vicodin Uses
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Vicodin for something other than pain. Off-label Vicodin uses include treatment of:
These off-label uses are not considered legitimate by most healthcare professionals, as there are more appropriate medications available to treat such conditions.
Before taking Vicodin
Before using Vicodin, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
- asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, or other breathing disorders;
- liver or kidney disease;
- a history of head injury or brain tumor;
- low blood pressure;
- a stomach or intestinal disorder;
- underactive thyroid;
- Addison`s disease or other adrenal gland disorder;
- curvature of the spine;
- mental illness; or
- a history of drug or alcohol addiction.
Overdosage
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, hearing impairment, heart problems, heavy perspiration, kidney problems, limp muscles, liver failure, low blood pressure, nausea, slow heartbeat, troubled or slowed breathing, vomiting.
Common Side Effects of Vicodin
Vicodin has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, one group of people received the real medication, while another group was given a placebo (a "sugar pill" that does not contain any active ingredients). As a result, it is possible to see what Vicodin side effects occurred, how often they appeared, and how they compared to the group who took the placebo.
Storage
Store Vicodin at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep track of how many tablets have been used from each new bottle of this medicine. Hydrocodone is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if any person in the household is using this medicine improperly or without a prescription.
