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Generic Name: Hydrocodone
Brand Name(s): Anexsia, Bancap HC, Co-Gesic, Hydrocet, Hydrogesic, Lorcet, Lortab, Margesic H, Maxidone, Norco, Panacet, Stagesic, T-Gesic, Vicodin, Zydone
Information updated: September 11, 2006
Overview
Hydrocodone is a semisynthetic analgesic similar in most respects to codeine.
In combination with acetaminophen, it offers excellent relief for moderate pain.
It can ease the discomfort of a bad toothache or the aftermath of minor surgery.
Hydrocodone with acetaminophen is sold under a number of names, including Anexsia 5/500, Anodynos DHC, Bancap, Co-Gesic, Dolacet, Duradyne DHC, Hydrocet, Lortab, Norcet, T-Gesic, and Zydone. Vicodin is the most popular brand name for this medication.
Side Effects and Interactions
Possible side effects to be aware of include weakness, euphoria, loss of appetite, sweating and constipation.
Some people experience shortness of breath, especially if they have asthma.
Other less common reactions include an allergic rash, disorientation, dry mouth and urinary difficulties. Report any such symptoms to your physician promptly.
Acetaminophen may cause liver or kidney problems in large doses or over long periods.
Your physician should evaluate your need for this combination pain reliever periodically.
If you are taking any other medicines, check with a physician or pharmacist.
Alcohol as well as many over-the-counter and prescription drugs can add to the sedative effect of this analgesic.
Antihistamines, antianxiety agents, antidepressants and sleeping pills require extra caution.
Both tricyclic and MAO-type antidepressants may interact with this analgesic to cause greater toxicity, and the anticonvulsant Dilantin may increase the risk of liver damage.
Special Precautions
Like any narcotic, hydrocodone may make you drowsy. Do not drive or attempt any activity that requires coordination and judgment.
Older people may be more susceptible to this reaction, or to lightheadedness or dizziness. Never stand up suddenly as it may make you feel faint.
Long-term use of hydrocodone and acetaminophen has drawbacks. Hydrocodone, like other narcotics, may be habit forming if you take it regularly.
Do not increase the dose on your own in a quest to achieve greater pain relief. But don't play the hero by skipping doses during an acute crisis.
Pain is more easily managed if it can be nipped in the bud instead of trying to play catch up when it has gotten out of control.
Taking the Medicine
Some people react to hydrocodone with nausea or vomiting.
Taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
Nausea, dizziness and other common reactions may be less troublesome if you lie down for awhile.
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Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. Their syndicated radio show can be heard on public radio.
© 2006
Reader Comments
I've been taking the generic for over a year. Last year I had knee surgery that resulted in a blood clot. I take warfarin to thin my blood, but apparently there was nerve damage that has resulted in pretty constant leg pain. I try to take the pain killer only at night. Sometimes I find it does not work, even if the dose is increased. Other times, one works just fine. I take it every day. Could this be a quality control problem?
Posted by: Larry | March 14, 2008 11:59 AM
I've had the same problem as Larry. I've been taking generic hydrocodone for 2 years now for degenerative arthritis. It's bone on bone now, and I'm going to have a TKR next month. It's a generic medication for vicodin (Hydroco/APAP 5-500 AB Tab with a V on one side and 3592 stamped on the other). The problem is it works some days and other days it doesn't. I was wondering if there's a lab to test product quality anywhere in the United States. I've heard so much about sub-standard pharmaceuticals coming from overseas, I would like to know that I'm actually getting what I've been prescribed. I tried calling my local pharmacy and they became defensive saying all of their products are USDA approved. I understand that over time one can build up a tolerance to a certain medication, but it doesn't explain why you take something that won't alleviate pain one day but will the next. Does anyone out there know of an independent lab that tests product quality? Please let me know. Thank you.
Posted by: Susan | June 3, 2008 7:23 PM
I have a herniated disc L4/5, with degenerative disc disease, and I am only 26.
i am having a hard time obtaining narcotic pain relievers.
I am in CONSTANT PAIN.
is there anything I can do? Any place over the internet that sells w/out charging a bundle? I can fax my MRI report...etc.
Thank you.
Posted by: af | June 23, 2008 5:46 PM