Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone (patient information)

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Why this medication is prescribed

This combination of drugs is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How this medication should be used

The combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken every 4-6 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take acetaminophen and hydrocodone exactly as directed.

Hydrocodone can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to.

Special precautions

Before taking acetaminophen and hydrocodone:

  • tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acetaminophen, codeine, hydrocodone, sulfite, or any other drugs.
  • tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially acetaminophen (Tylenol); antidepressants; medications for cough, cold, or allergies; other pain relievers; sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
  • tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease, a history of alcoholism, lung or thyroid disease, prostatic hypertrophy, or urinary retention.
  • tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking acetaminophen and hydrocodone, call your doctor.
  • if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking acetaminophen and hydrocodone.
  • you should know that this drug may make you drowsy and dizzy; do not drive a car or operate heavy machinery until you know how acetaminophen and hydrocodone affects you.
  • talk to your doctor about the safe use of alcohol. Alcohol may alter the effectiveness of acetaminophen and hydrocodone.

What to do if you forget a dose

This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take acetaminophen and hydrocodone regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Side Effects

Minor Side Effects

Acetaminophen and hydrocodone may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

  • lightheadedness
  • dizziness
  • drowsiness
  • upset stomach
  • vomiting
  • constipation
  • stomach pain
  • rash
  • difficulty urinating

Severe Side Effects

If you experience either of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

  • difficulty breathing
  • mood changes

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

Storage conditions needed for this medication

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Other information

Keep all appointments with your doctor. If your pain is not controlled or continues, call your doctor.

Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage; do not take more than 4000 mg of acetaminophen per day.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Brand names

  • Anexsia®
  • Co-gesic®
  • Lorcet-HD®
  • Lortab®
  • Norco®
  • Panacet®
  • Vicodin®
  • Zydone®

Other names

  • APAP and Hydrocodone
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