Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen (Lortab, Vicoden)

Category:

Analgesic

Description:

Narcotic analgesic, antitussive; DEA Schedule II

Indications:

Moderate to moderately severe pain
Non-productive cough

Precautions:

Pregnancy category B (D if used in high doses at term or for prolonged periods of time); withdrawal could theoretically occur in infants exposed in utero; use caution in nursing mothers
Head injury, increased intracranial pressure, acute abdominal conditions
Elderly, severe hepatic/renal impairment, hypothyroidism, Addison’s disease
Prostatic hypertrophy, urethral stricture, history of drug abuse

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

CNS: agitation, dependency, dizziness, drowsiness, lethargy, restlessness, sedation
CV: bradycardia, orthostatic hypotension, palpitations, tachycardia
GI: anorexia, constipation, nausea, vomiting
GU: urinary retention
RESP: respiratory depression, respiratory paralysis

Dosage:

Administered orally: Dose based on hydrocodone content

Adult: PO 5-10mg every 4-6 hours as needed
Child: PO 0.6 mg/kg/day in 3-4 divided doses, do not exceed 1.25 mg/dose (<2 years); 5 mg/dose (2-12 years); 10 mg/dose (>12 years)

Source: Operational Medicine 2001, Health Care in Military Settings, NAVMED P-5139, May 1, 2001, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20372-5300