Description

Hydrocodone 10/325 mg (Hydrocodone Bitartrate / Acetaminophen)

Overview

Hydrocodone 10/325 mg is a prescription pain-relief medication used for the management of moderate to moderately severe pain. It combines Hydrocodone, a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic, with Acetaminophen (Paracetamol), a non-opioid pain reliever and fever reducer.

This combination works synergistically to provide stronger pain control than either medication alone. Hydrocodone 10/325 mg is typically prescribed for short-term pain management, such as following surgery or injury, under careful medical supervision.

Key Details

• Generic Name: Hydrocodone Bitartrate and Acetaminophen

• Brand Names: Norco®, Vicodin®, Lortab® (brand varies by manufacturer)

• Strength: 10 mg Hydrocodone / 325 mg Acetaminophen

• Dosage Form: Oral tablet

• Drug Class: Opioid Analgesic Combination

• Manufacturer: (Varies by region)

• Prescription Required: ✅ Yes

• Controlled Substance: Schedule II (high potential for abuse and dependence)

How It Works

This medication provides pain relief through two complementary mechanisms:

• Hydrocodone binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, reducing pain perception and emotional response to pain.

• Acetaminophen enhances pain control by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system and reducing fever.

Together, they produce effective, fast-acting relief for moderate to severe pain.

Usage Guidelines

• Take exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

• Usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain.

• May be taken with food or milk to minimize stomach upset.

• Do not exceed 4,000 mg of Acetaminophen per day (including all other sources) to avoid liver damage.

• Do not crush or chew the tablets.

• For short-term use only — prolonged use increases the risk of dependence and withdrawal.

Safety Information & Precautions

• High risk of addiction, misuse, and overdose — use only as directed by your doctor.

• May cause serious respiratory depression, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose.

• Avoid alcohol, sedatives, or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants while taking this medication.

• Do not use if you have severe asthma, liver disease, or gastrointestinal obstruction.

• Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements you are taking.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should only use under strict medical guidance.

• Use cautiously in elderly patients or those with impaired liver or kidney function.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness or dizziness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Constipation

• Lightheadedness

• Dry mouth

• Headache

Serious side effects (seek immediate medical help):

• Slow or shallow breathing

• Confusion or severe drowsiness

• Yellowing of skin or eyes (possible liver toxicity)

• Rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)

• Signs of overdose (pinpoint pupils, cold skin, loss of consciousness)

Storage Instructions

• Store at room temperature (20–25 °C / 68–77 °F)

• Keep away from moisture, heat, and light

• Store securely in a locked cabinet, away from children or anyone at risk of misuse

• Dispose of unused or expired medication through a drug take-back program — do not flush down the toilet