Hydrocodone bitartrate is an opiod pain reliever and antitussive (cough suppressant). Acetaminophen is a non-opiod, non-salicylate (non aspirin) pain reliever and fever reducer. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH) how these two medications work is not fully understood, however together they are effective in treating moderate to severe pain. Hydrocodone bitartrate works on central nervous system opiate receptors as well as affecting smooth muscle function causing drowsiness and sedation.
General Side Effects
According to the NIH, the most frequently reported adverse side effects from hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen use are nausea and vomiting, dizziness and drowsiness.
Dermatologic Side Effects
Generalized rash and itching can be caused by both hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Additionally, acetaminophen may cause thrombocytopenia (low platelets) and agranulocytosis (very low white blood cell count).
Central Nervous System Side Effects
Hydrocodone bitartrate has potent sedative effects. Drowsiness, impaired thinking ability, physical weakness and un-coordination and lethargy are some of the central nervous system side effects. Other central nervous system reactions include anxiety, fear, dysphoria, mood changes and psychological dependence.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Hydrocodone bitartrate with acetaminophen should be taken with food to help alleviate gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea or vomiting. Prolonged use can cause constipation.
Genitourinary System Side Effects
Hydrocodone bitartrate may cause spasms of the ureter as well as urinary retention. Patients with a history of urinary retention should use hydrocodone cautiously.
Respiratory System Side Effects
Because hydrocodone bitartrate works on the central nervous system, it has the potential to cause respiratory depression. In incidence of overdose, respiratory depression can be severe or fatal.
Side Effects to Special Sense
The NIH reports that some patients have experienced impaired hearing and even loss of hearing; however these adverse effects are associated with hydrocodone bitartrate with acetaminophen overdose.
Risk of Drug Dependence
Like all opiod products, there is potential for drug dependence, drug addiction, and drug abuse to develop with use of hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen. Drug dependence is physical tolerance and physical dependence on a drug and should not be confused with drug addiction and drug abuse. The body may become tolerant of hydrocodone bitartrate thus requiring more frequent or higher dosing for pain control.
Warnings
Both hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen have serious health complications when overdose occurs. It is important for patients not to take additional over-the-counter pain relievers that contain acetaminophen while taking hydrocodone bitartrate with acetaminophen. Additionally, medications with sedative effects, other opiods, and alcohol should be avoided while taking hydrocodone bitartrate.
Overdose of hydrocodone causes severe respiratory depression and possibly respiratory arrest. Acetaminophen overdose can cause fatal hepatic (liver) necrosis, renal tubular necrosis (permanent damage to kidney), and hypoglycemic coma.
Member Comments