Vicodin Uses
Vicodin is prescribed to treat moderate and severe pain resulting from dental procedures, surgery, or injuries. Occasionally it is also prescribed for other conditions such as treating insomnia, coughing ('off-label' basis), chronic pain, migraine headaches and ongoing long-term conditions.
What Can Vicodin Be Used For?
Vicodin hydrocodone/APAP can treat severe and moderate pain. Available only with a prescription, it commonly
treats pain resulting from dental procedures, surgery or injuries. In addition, it may be used to relieve
migraines,
chronic pain or other long-term recurring conditions. As it is a narcotic drug, it is common for Vicodin to be abused (refer to
Vicodin Abuse).
Vicodin - How Does It Work?
Acetaminophen and hydrocodone are both drugs contained in Vicodin. A partially synthetic narcotic, hydrocodone is an
opioid pain reliever with similar attributes to
codeine. Hydrocodone works effectively in treating cough symptoms and decreasing pain, however, its negative effects can include mental "clouding", mood changes and drowsiness.
Hydrocodone is always used in combination with other drugs. It has the ability to change the way you respond to pain by affecting the receptors in the brain.
In contrast, acetaminophen is a fever reducing pain reliever that is not a narcotic. It is typically found in over-the-counter non-prescription drugs, such as Tylenol. Using hydrocodone and acetaminophen in combination helps the acetaminophen to be effective, whilst reducing the potential addictive qualities of hydrocodone. It is important to always monitor the levels of acetaminophen you take from any source whilst using Vicodin, to prevent the dangers of toxicity (refer to
Vicodin Interactions).
Children and Vicodin
Vicodin is not suitable or approved for children. To find out more about the benefits and risks of using Vicodin in children speak with your doctor.
Other Vicodin Uses
"Off-Label" Vicodin may be recommended by your physician to treat symptoms other than pain, such as:
Most healthcare professionals do not consider the "off-label" uses of Vicodin to be legitimate as there are medications more appropriate to treat these ailments.
The Use of Oral Vicodin
It is recommended you read the information leaflet provided by your pharmacist before taking Vicodin oral. Should you need additional information, speak with your pharmacist or your doctor.
Vicodin oral is a drug taken by mouth or as instructed by your doctor. This drug can be taken without or with food, however, where nausea is an issue; it is advisable to eat before taking the drug. You can also try lying down with little head movement for one or two hours to help ease your nausea. If problems with nausea persist, your pharmacist or doctor may be able to help you.
It is important to take the medication as prescribed.
Never use Vicodin for longer or more frequently than prescribed and do not increase the dose without your doctor's instruction. Your prescribed
Vicodin dosage will be based on your individual response to treatment and your current medical condition.
Additionally, it is best to take painkillers when you first experience pain. If you hold off until the pain worsens, the drug will not be as effective.
Overtime, you may find Vicodin is not as effective. If your medication is no longer working well, speak with your doctor. They may decide to reduce your dosage slowly over time to reduce any possible
Vicodin withdrawal symptoms.
Whilst Vicadin has many benefits, it can cause addictive behavior (refer to
Vicodin Addiction). If you have been addicted to drugs or alcohol previously, you may have an increased risk of Vicodin addiction. To reduce any chance of addiction, always take the medication as prescribed.
