Vicodin is one brand name of a medication used for mild to moderate pain relief. It is a combination of the over-the-counter analgesic, acetaminophen and a narcotic pain reliever, hydrocodone, and is one of the most commonly prescribed pain medications. Like other opiate-type medications, Vicodin may cause a number of side effects.
Stomach Upset
Stomach complaints including nausea and vomiting are common side effects of Vicodin use. Taking the medication with food will often help prevent nausea. Patients who take Vicodin for chronic pain over a long period of time may experience constipation. Unlike nausea, which may subside after the patient becomes used to the medication, constipation will usually not go away with continued use and may require use of a laxative. Patients who have gastrointestinal disorders may not be able to use Vicodin.
Dizziness
Dizziness and light-headedness are common complaints with Vicodin use. These side effects may be lessened by lying down and will likely decrease in severity as the patient becomes accustomed to the medication. Drowsiness is also commonly reported as Vicodin is a narcotic which may induce sedation. Severe changes in mental status including an inability to waken, fainting or slowed breathing may indicate overdose and the need to seek immediate medical help.
Impaired Thinking
Changes in mental status, including foggy thinking and confusion, may be experienced by some patients while others may experience anxiety or mild agitation. Most side effects affecting cognitive ability will lessen with time; however, depression may become a problem with long-term use of Vicodin. Severe changes in mental functioning should be reported to a physician.
Liver Toxicity
One of the ingredients of Vicodin, acetaminophen is known to cause liver toxicity when taken in high doses. No more than four grams of acetaminophen should be taken in a 24-hour period. According to dosing instructions recommended by the manufacturer, a maximum of eight tablets of the 5/500 strength of Vicodin should be taken daily to avoid liver damage.
Potential Addiction
All opiate-type pain medications pose a potential for abuse and dependence, including Vicodin, which contains the codeine derivative, hydrocodone. Vicodin should only be taken exactly as prescribed, and many patients will develop a physical dependence to the medication. As indicated by RxList.com, when Vicodin is discontinued, patients may experience symptoms of withdrawal including flu-like symptoms, diarrhea, vomiting and anxiety. Other patients may experience symptoms of overdose after taking too much medication. Because of these risks, Vicodin is a controlled substance medication that may require additional monitoring of medication use. Symptoms of overdose or withdrawal should be reported to a physician.
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