Vicodin Side Effects

From Pharmacy Drug Guide

Vicodin is a prescription drug combining acetaminophen and hydrocodone that works as a narcotic pain reliever. Hydrocodone is an opiate pain reliever of lower strength than the often-abused oxycodone, but stronger than codeine.^[1] Vicodin also has potential for abuse due to the hydrocodone content. Acitaminophen is an analgesic and antipyretic, meaning it relieves pain and reduces fever.^[2] One familiar brand name for acetaminophen is Tylenol. Vicodin side effects result from either of the ingredients or a combination of the two.

Each tablet typically contains 5 mg of hydrocodone bitartrate and 500 mg of acetaminophen, although variations do exist.

Contents 1 Common Vicodin Side Effects 2 Effects of Vicodin on the Body 3 Vicodin Allergic Reactions 4 Vicodin Precautions and Warnings 5 About Drug Side Effects 6 References

Common Vicodin Side Effects

Side effects most commonly seen with Vicodin are gastro-intestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting; drowsiness; and feelings of lightheadedness. Because patients who are bedridden seem to experience fewer of these adverse reactions, the manufacturer states that some side effects may be lessened if patients assume a reclining position.^[5]

There are also other side effets associated with Vicodin, such as constipation, decreased ability to perform mental or physical tasks, altered mood, inability to think clearly, and rashes on the skin.^[3]

Effects of Vicodin on the Body

Vicodin Allergic Reactions

Patients may experience allergic reactions to hydrocodone, acetaminophen, or any of the inactive ingredients that are contained in Vicodin preparations. In addition, patients who have experienced prior allergies to other narcotic drugs, such as codeine or morphine, are likely to be allergic to Vicodin as well. While allergic reactions to Vicodin are very uncommon, they can be life-threatening.^[6]

Vicodin Precautions and Warnings

• Vicodin is classified as a schedule III controlled substance due to the hydrocodone content. There is a high potential for abuse of Vicodin, which can potentially result in law enforcement intervention. Vicodin can cause physical dependency, particularly when used for a period of several weeks or longer.^[7]
• Because of Vicodin's potential for abuse, patients are advised to store their tablets in a secure place where others cannot access it.
• Studies have not shown whether Vicodin might cause birth defects; pregnant women are advised to only use the drug if their medical condition is serious enough to outweigh the risks. Babies born to mothers who take Vicodin may suffer addiction and withdrawal.
• Elderly patients and those with general weakness or kidney or thyroid issues are at a higher risk for respiratory depression when taking Vicodin.^[5]
• Because Vicodin suppresses the cough response, patients recovering from surgery or who have pulmonary disease are advised to take caution if using Vicodin.

About Drug Side Effects

Also See:Prescription Drugs, Drug Side Effects, Patient Assistance Programs, Controlled Substances and Illegal Drugs, Paxil and Pregnancy, Tylenol Side Effects, Acetaminophen, Morphine Coupons, Morphine Side Effects, Oxycodone Coupons, Oxycodone Side Effects, Oxycontin Patient Assistance Programs, Oxycontin Side Effects, Suboxone, Suboxone Side Effects, Percocet Side Effects

References

1. ↑ http://pain.emedtv.com/vicodin/vicodin
2. ↑ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0000521/
3. ↑ ^{3.0 3.1 3.2} http://www.rxabbott.com/pdf/vicodin.pdf
4. ↑ http://www.pdrhealth.com/drugs/vicodin
5. ↑ ^{5.0 5.1 5.2} http://www.fda.gov/ohrms/dockets/dailys/02/May02/052102/02p-0233-cp00001-03-Tab-02-vol1.pdf
6. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-3459-Vicodin+Oral.aspx?drugid=3459&drugname=Vicodin+Oral
7. ↑ http://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?id=15780