Front Desk: 469-391-0070
Hydrocodone Dosage: Uses, Side Effects, and Pain Management
Summary or Key Points
Hydrocodone is a prescription medication used to manage moderate to severe pain and suppress cough. It belongs to the opioid class, which affects how the brain and body perceive pain. Hydrocodone is available in various forms, often combined with other medications like acetaminophen. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available to assist with your treatment management.
Names of Medication
US Brand Names: Vicodin, Norco, Lortab, Zohydro ER, Hysingla ER
Generic Name: Hydrocodone
The generic name refers to the active ingredient, while the brand name is assigned by the manufacturer. The generic name is listed in parentheses.
Pharmacologic Category
Opioid Analgesic
Antitussive (Cough Suppressant)
Hydrocodone Dosage
Hydrocodone is prescribed for various conditions. Below are common adult dosages. Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available for any questions or concerns.
Hydrocodone Dosage for Pain
Immediate-release: 5 mg to 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours.
Extended-release: 20 mg to 50 mg every 12 hours for chronic pain management. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your needs.
Hydrocodone Dosage for Cough
5 mg to 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for cough suppression. Do not exceed 6 doses in 24 hours.
Hydrocodone for Osteoarthritis
5 mg to 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain relief. Extended-release formulations may be used for chronic pain management.
Hydrocodone for Back Pain
5 mg to 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours for acute pain. Extended-release formulations may be used for chronic pain.
Hydrocodone for Cancer Pain
20 mg to 50 mg of extended-release hydrocodone every 12 hours. Your healthcare provider may adjust the dose based on your pain level.
Hydrocodone for Postoperative Pain
5 mg to 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. Do not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours.
Hydrocodone for Chronic Pain
Extended-release: 20 mg to 50 mg every 12 hours. Your doctor will adjust the dose based on your pain control needs.
Hydrocodone for Fibromyalgia
5 mg to 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours for pain relief. Extended-release formulations may be used for chronic pain management.
Hydrocodone for Migraines
5 mg to 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. Hydrocodone is not typically the first choice for migraines but may be prescribed in certain cases.
Hydrocodone for Neuropathic Pain
5 mg to 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours for acute pain. Extended-release formulations may be used for chronic neuropathic pain.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Immediate-release tablets: 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg (often combined with acetaminophen)
Extended-release tablets: 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg
Oral solution: 7.5 mg/15 mL, 10 mg/5 mL
Administration Instructions
Take hydrocodone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It can be taken with or without food, though taking it with food may help reduce nausea. Do not crush, chew, or break extended-release tablets, as this can release the drug all at once, increasing the risk of overdose. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for your next dose. Never take two doses at once.
Hydrocodone Side Effects
Like all medications, hydrocodone can cause side effects. Some are more common, while others are rare but serious. If you experience any severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you manage any side effects or concerns.
Common Hydrocodone Side Effects
Drowsiness: Feeling unusually sleepy or tired.
Nausea and Vomiting: Upset stomach or vomiting, especially when starting the medication.
Constipation: Difficulty passing stool, which can be managed with diet or over-the-counter medications.
Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady, especially when standing up quickly.
Serious Hydrocodone Side Effects
Respiratory Depression: Slowed or difficult breathing, which can be life-threatening. Seek emergency help if you experience this.
Severe Allergic Reaction: Rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms.
Dependence and Addiction: Long-term use of hydrocodone can lead to physical dependence or addiction. Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Contraindications
A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a particular treatment or medication should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. For hydrocodone, there are several situations where it is not safe to take the medication.
Severe asthma or breathing problems: Hydrocodone can slow down your breathing, and if you already have breathing issues, this can be dangerous.
Gastrointestinal obstruction: If you have a blockage in your stomach or intestines, hydrocodone can worsen this condition by slowing down the movement of your digestive system.
Allergy to Hydrocodone or other opioids: If you have had an allergic reaction to hydrocodone or other opioids in the past, taking it again could cause a life-threatening reaction.
Severe liver or kidney disease: Hydrocodone is processed by the liver and kidneys. If these organs are not functioning properly, the drug may build up in your system, leading to dangerous side effects.
Recent use of MAO inhibitors: Taking hydrocodone with MAO inhibitors (used for depression) can lead to dangerous drug interactions, including serotonin syndrome, which can be life-threatening.
Drug to Drug Interactions
Hydrocodone can interact with other medications, potentially increasing the risk of serious side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either Hydrocodone or the other drug. Some common medications that may interact with Hydrocodone include:
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax [alprazolam], Valium [diazepam]): Combining these with Hydrocodone can significantly increase the risk of severe drowsiness, breathing difficulties, coma, or even death.
- Antidepressants (e.g., Zoloft [sertraline], Prozac [fluoxetine]): These medications may raise the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Muscle relaxants (e.g., Flexeril [cyclobenzaprine]): These can amplify the sedative effects of Hydrocodone, leading to increased drowsiness and breathing problems.
- Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl [diphenhydramine]): When taken with Hydrocodone, these can further increase drowsiness and slow breathing.
- Other opioids (e.g., OxyContin [oxycodone], Vicodin [hydrocodone/acetaminophen]): Combining opioids heightens the risk of overdose and respiratory depression.
Hydrocodone in Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Hydrocodone during pregnancy?
Hydrocodone is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the potential benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Taking Hydrocodone while pregnant can lead to neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS), where the baby may experience withdrawal symptoms after birth, such as irritability, difficulty feeding, and breathing problems. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is important to consult your healthcare provider to discuss safer alternatives for managing pain.
Hydrocodone while Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Hydrocodone while breastfeeding?
Hydrocodone can pass into breast milk and may cause serious side effects in a nursing infant, including excessive sleepiness, breathing difficulties, or even death. For this reason, Hydrocodone is generally not recommended while breastfeeding. If you require pain relief while nursing, speak with your healthcare provider about alternative medications. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to explore safer options.
Estimated Cost of Hydrocodone
The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Hydrocodone without insurance, using a GoodRx coupon, typically ranges from $20 to $50, depending on the dosage and pharmacy. Prices may vary, so it’s a good idea to check with your local pharmacy or use a discount coupon service like GoodRx to find the best price.
Possible Alternatives to Hydrocodone
If Hydrocodone is not suitable for you, there are other treatments and lifestyle changes that may help manage your condition. Always discuss these alternatives with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to explore these options.
- Pain: Non-opioid pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may be effective. Physical therapy and relaxation techniques can also help manage pain.
- Cough: Over-the-counter cough suppressants like dextromethorphan (Robitussin) may be a safer alternative. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier can also help alleviate a cough.
- Osteoarthritis: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like naproxen (Aleve) or topical treatments may provide relief. Regular exercise and weight management can also help reduce symptoms.
- Back Pain: Physical therapy, stretching exercises, and non-opioid pain relievers may be effective. In some cases, muscle relaxants or corticosteroid injections may be recommended.
- Cancer Pain: Depending on the severity, non-opioid medications, radiation therapy, or nerve blocks may be alternatives. Palliative care can also help manage symptoms.
- Postoperative Pain: Non-opioid medications like acetaminophen or NSAIDs may be effective. Ice packs and rest can also help reduce pain after surgery.
- Chronic Pain: Non-opioid medications, physical therapy, acupuncture, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are potential alternatives. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and stress management, can also be beneficial.
- Fibromyalgia: Antidepressants like duloxetine (Cymbalta) or anticonvulsants like pregabalin (Lyrica) may help. Gentle exercise and stress-reduction techniques can also improve symptoms.
- Migraines: Triptans like sumatriptan (Imitrex) or preventive medications like beta-blockers may be effective. Avoiding known triggers and practicing relaxation techniques can also help reduce the frequency of migraines.
- Neuropathic Pain: Anticonvulsants like gabapentin (Neurontin) or antidepressants like amitriptyline may be alternatives. Physical therapy and nerve stimulation techniques may also provide relief.
Recent Updates on Hydrocodone Research
Recent research on Hydrocodone has focused on its potential for abuse and the development of safer alternatives for pain management. Studies are exploring the use of abuse-deterrent formulations (ADFs) of Hydrocodone to reduce the risk of misuse. Additionally, ongoing research is investigating non-opioid alternatives for managing both acute and chronic pain, including cannabinoids and nerve stimulation therapies. As always, consult your healthcare provider to stay informed about the latest treatment options available for your condition.
