Hydrocodone
Important Information:
* Hydrocodone is habit forming. Because you can become addicted to this medication, it is important to take only the prescribed amount of it. Do not take hydrocodone for longer than your doctor has recommended. Otherwise, you could experience withdrawal symptoms.
* Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication. Alcohol can increase the effects of the medication, making you drowsier or dizzier, which can lead to unconsciousness or even death.
* In addition, hydrocodone may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness. These can include antidepressants, antihistamines, anxiety medicines, seizure medications and muscle relaxants. Notify your doctor of all medications you are taking prior to taking hydrocodone.
* Hydrocodone may cause constipation. Drink six to eight glasses of water daily and increase the fibre in your diet to counteract this effect.
What is hydrocodone?
Hydrocodone is a narcotic analgesic, prescribed to relieve pain. It is related to codeine.
Tell your doctor if….
You have any of the following:
* A history of alcohol abuse or drug abuse
* Liver or kidney disease
* Asthma
* Enlarged prostate
* Hypothyroidism
* Seizures
* Gallbladder disease
* Addison’s disease, or
* A head injury.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking hydrocodone and acetaminophen ?
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
• a history of alcohol or drug abuse;
• kidney disease;
• liver disease;
• asthma;
• urinary retention;
• an enlarged prostate;
• hypothyroidism;
• seizures or epilepsy;
• gallbladder disease;
• a head injury; or
• Addison's disease.
I’m pregnant. Can I take hydrocodone? What about when I’m breastfeeding?
Hydrocodone is in the pregnancy category C, which means it is not known whether taking this medication would be harmful to an unborn baby. Ensure your doctor knows that you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
If you are breastfeeding and are considering taking hydrocodone, note that it does pass into breastmilk and may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about taking this medication if you are breastfeeding.
Dosing Information
Hydrocodone should be taken as directed by a physician. Take each dose with a full glass of water, and if you experience stomach upset after taking it, take the next dose with food or milk.
The liquid form of hydrocodone should be measured in a special medicine dose-measuring spoon, not a household tablespoon.
Never take more than the prescribed dose.
If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then take the next dose at the prescribed interval. DO NOT double up your dose.
In the event of an overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately. Symptoms of hydrocodone overdose include slowed breathing, dizziness, weakness, seizures, coma, confusion, clammy skin, contracted pupils, nausea, sweating, and vomiting.
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