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Hydrocodone

Brand: Norco (with acetaminophen; Vicodin discontinued), Hysingla ER (single-agent)

Opioid analgesic (C-II)Used for: Moderate to severe painPain & Inflammation
Boxed warning · ISMP high-alert drug

Addiction, abuse, and misuse; life-threatening respiratory depression; profound sedation and death with benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants; neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome with prolonged use in pregnancy.

Caution
Combination products add acetaminophen toward the 4 g daily ceiling.
Pregnancy
Prolonged use in pregnancy causes neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (boxed).

Common side effects

  • Constipation
  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Respiratory depression

Key interactions

  • Additive sedation with benzodiazepines and alcohol
  • Combination products add acetaminophen toward the 4 g daily ceiling

Counseling points

  • Check every other product for acetaminophen. It adds up fast
  • Start a bowel regimen early
  • Avoid alcohol
  • Store securely; keep naloxone on hand
We ask 8 questions about Hydrocodone.Practice Hydrocodone →Test yourself on medications like Hydrocodone.Practice Medications →
← FentanylHydrocodone/acetaminophen →

High-yield study aid for exam prep, not a substitute for the package insert or a pharmacist’s dispensing reference.