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Hydrocodone

Combination drugs: Lortab, Tussionex, Vicoprofen

Illustration

Hydrocodone is a narcotic analgesic used in combination products to relieve mild to moderate pain and an antitussive agent to relieve cough and upper respiratory symptoms associated with allergy or cold.

Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, a herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized interactions.

Depletion or interference

None known
Side effect reduction/prevention

None known
Supportive interaction

None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability

None known
Adverse interaction

None known

An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds

Food
Hydrocodone may cause gastro-intestinal (GI) upset. Hydrocodone-containing products may be taken with food to reduce or prevent GI upset.1 A common side effect of narcotic analgesics is constipation.2 Increasing dietary fibre (especially vegetables and whole-grain foods) and water intake can ease constipation.

Alcohol
Hydrocodone may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Alcohol may intensify these effects and increase the risk of accidental injury.3 To prevent problems, people taking hydrocodone should avoid alcohol.

References

1. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Narcotic Agonist Analgesics. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1990, 242–3v.

2. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Narcotic Agonist Analgesics. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1990, 242–3v.

3. Threlkeld DS, ed. Central Nervous System Drugs, Narcotic Agonist Analgesics. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1990, 242–3v.