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CancerQuest > Drugs > Hydrocodone (Lortab®, Maxidone®, Norco®, Vicodin®, Vicoprofen®, Zydone®)

Hydrocodone (Lortab®, Maxidone®, Norco®, Vicodin®, Vicoprofen®, Zydone®)

Generic Name: Hydrocodone Brand Name(s): Lortab®, Maxidone®, Norco®, Vicodin®, Vicoprofen®, Zydone® IUPAC: 4,5a-Epoxy-3-methoxy-17-methylmorphinan-6-one FDA Approval: yes Manufacturer Link

Usage: Hydrocodone can be given as a tablet or liquid, usually several times daily. hydrocodone is available in several forms in combination with other drugs. These include: Lortab® (with acetaminophen), Maxidone® (with acetaminophen), Norco® (with acetaminophen), Vicodin® (with acetaminophen), Vicoprofen® (with ibuprogen), Zydone® (with acetaminophen).

Mechanism: Hydrocodone is a semisynthetic opiate that has properties similar to those of codeine. It binds primarily to the mu opioid receptor to relieve pain.

Side Effects: Common side effects include: light-headedness and dizziness, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting. Hydrocodone can be habit-forming. Psychological and physiological withdrawal symptoms can occur if the patient becomes drug-dependent. With prolonged use, tolerance may also become a problem, requiring higher dosages to achieve pain relief. Alcohol can intensify some of the mental and emotional side effects of hydrocodone, such as drowsiness and changes in mood. Patients should avoid alcohol consumption while taking hydrocodone. At higher doses hydrocodone can cause respiratory depression. This may result in a potentially dangerous slowing of a patient's breathing rate.⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

References for this page:

1. PDR. Electronic Library". Volume 2003. Micromedex. Thomson Healthcare, 2003.
2. Drug Information for the Health Care Professional. Edition 22, Volume 1. Micromedex. Thomson Healthcare, 2002.