Medications

 Medications

Hydrocodone/APAP (Lortab ®) and Acetaminophen (Tylenol ®) are the principal medications used in this procedure.

Other Names

Lortab®; Anexsia®; Co-gesic®; Lorcet-HD®; Norco®; Panacet®;Vicodin®; and Zydone® 

How Is it Administered?

The combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone comes as a tablet, capsule, or liquid to take by mouth.

What Is it Used For?

This combination of drugs is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain.

What Should I Tell My Doctor Before I Begin Taking Lortab?

Tell your doctor if you:

• If you are allergic to acetaminophen, codeine, hydrocodone, sulfite, or any other drugs
• What prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially acetaminophen (TylenolÒ); antidepressants; medications for colds or allergies; pain relievers; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
• If you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease, a history of alcoholism, lung or thyroid disease.

This drug may interact with other medications, changing their effectiveness or causing harmful side effects. Tell your doctor and pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbal or diet supplements that you are taking.

How Should I Use Lortab?

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine than your doctor tells you
• Take this medicine on an empty stomach. If it upsets your stomach, it may be taken with food.
• Do not take extra Tylenol® or Acetaminophen when taking Lortab® since Lortab® has Acetaminophen in it.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

What Are Some Possible Side Effects I May Experience?

Although side effects from acetaminophen and hydrocodone are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• lightheadedness
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• upset stomach
• vomiting
• constipation
• stomach pain
• rash or itching
• difficulty urinating

When Should I Call the Doctor?

Call your doctor immediately if you experience:

• difficulty breathing
• mood changes

What Else Should I Know About Lortab?

• Too much acetaminophen may cause liver damage; do not take more than 4000 mg of acetaminophen per day.
• Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking Lortab
• Avoid driving or operating any machinery