Vicodin
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Vicodin is a trademarked brand of narcotic analgesics (painkillers) containing hydrocodone and paracetamol (acetaminophen or, more-completely, para-acetylaminophenol). It is usually found in tablet form with either the names "Vicodin", "Vicodin ES", or "Vicodin HP" imprinted on one side. Analgesics with the same chemical composition and a similar physical appearance are found under many other trade names, including Anexsia, Anolor DH5, Bancap HC, Dolacet, Hydro, Lorcet, Lortab, Norco, T-Gesic, and Vadunk. The hydrocodone/paracetamol drug formula is also available under generic brands. The paracetamol in the formula increases the effects of the hydrocodone in relieving pain but also discourages drug abuse since the doses needed for recreation would have toxic amounts of paracetamol. Oral hydrocodone is considered 1.5 times as potent as oral morphine, though the equianalgesic dose varies between patients.[1]
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[edit] Regulation and scheduling
In the United States, Vicodin production is regulated in part by the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. This guarantees that all manufacturing, importing, possession, and distribution of drugs is to be overseen and regulated by the federal government, which is also responsible (along with the Department of Justice and state governments) for the conviction and sentencing of anyone who breaks drug laws.[2]
In the U.S., Vicodin is on the Schedule III list of drugs. Other drugs on this list include anabolic steroids, dihydrocodeine, dronabinol, ergine, ketamine, paregoric, and Xyrem; codeine and hydrocodone are also Schedule III but only when compounded with paracetamol or with an NSAID. Schedule III drugs are classified by the U.S. government as potentially causing moderate or low physical dependence or a high psychological dependence if abused.
[edit] Indications
Vicodin, like other opioid analgesics, is used to manage pain. It is most commonly prescribed for relief of mild to moderate pain of acute, chronic, or post-operative types.
[edit] Side effects
Side effects for Vicodin include an allergic reaction, seizures, clammy skin, severe weakness, dizziness, hyperventilation, unconsciousness, jaundice (yellowing of eyes or skin), unusual fatigue, bleeding, bruising, stomach pain,[3] constipation, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, muscle twitches, sweating, hot flashes, itching, tinnitus, hearing loss, decreased urination, and decreased sex drive.[4] Vicodin (in terms of hydrocodone) also has depressant effects on the central nervous system.[5] However, some of the less mundane effects can be desirable effects that are sought after by some. Those effects include euphoria and drowsiness, as well as slowing of the pulse.[6] Vicodin may also be a cause of stomach ulcers, although this is assumed to be due to the addition of other non-narcotic analgesics to hydrocodone preparations (e.g., aspirin, and ibuprofen). Paracetamol does not cause ulcers, unlike NSAIDS.
[edit] References
- ^ http://endoflife.stanford.edu/M11_pain_control/doses_m01.html Pain Control: Opioid Conversion
- ^ [1][dead link]
- ^ Anonymous (March 24, 2008). Vicodin. Cerner Multum, Inc.. Retrieved on 2008-06-09.
- ^ Vicodin's Effects and Dangers
- ^ 21 CFR - Section 13001.01 Definitions relating to controlled substances
- ^ Vicodin Side Effects, Vicodin Detox
