Description

Hydrocodone 5/500mg is a prescription pain medication combining Hydrocodone bitartrate (5 mg), an opioid analgesic, with Acetaminophen (500 mg), a non-opioid pain reliever and fever reducer.

This medication provides dual-action pain relief:

• Hydrocodone acts on opioid receptors in the central nervous system (CNS) to decrease the sensation of pain.

• Acetaminophen enhances the pain-relieving effects of hydrocodone and helps reduce fever.

⚠️ Note: Hydrocodone 5/500mg formulations have been discontinued in the United States and replaced by lower-acetaminophen versions (such as 5/325mg) to reduce the risk of liver toxicity associated with high acetaminophen doses.

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Features

• Each tablet contains 5 mg Hydrocodone and 500 mg Acetaminophen.

• Provides effective short-term relief of moderate to moderately severe pain.

• Combines opioid and non-opioid pain mechanisms for enhanced analgesic benefit.

• Historically sold under brand names such as Vicodin®, Lortab® 5/500, and Norco® 5/500.

• Higher acetaminophen content (500 mg) increased the risk of liver injury, prompting reformulation by manufacturers.

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Uses

• Relief of moderate to moderately severe pain, including:

  • Postoperative pain

  • Injury-related pain

  • Dental or musculoskeletal pain

• Typically used for short-term pain management when non-opioid medications are inadequate.

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Effects

Therapeutic Effects

• Hydrocodone: Alters pain perception and emotional response to pain by acting on CNS opioid receptors.

• Acetaminophen: Increases hydrocodone’s analgesic effects and reduces fever.

• Together, they provide balanced, effective pain relief for acute conditions.

Possible Side Effects

• Common: Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or lightheadedness.

• Serious: Respiratory depression, confusion, allergic reaction, or liver damage (especially with excessive acetaminophen or alcohol use).

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Precautions

• Use only as directed by a healthcare provider.

• Avoid alcohol or sedatives, which can enhance sedation and increase respiratory risk.

• Do not exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen per day from all sources.

• Use cautiously in patients with liver disease, breathing problems, or a history of substance use disorder.

• May cause dependence or withdrawal if used for extended periods; discontinue gradually under medical supervision.

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Important Note

Hydrocodone 5/500mg is a Schedule II controlled substance (U.S.), meaning it carries a risk of abuse and dependence.
Due to its high acetaminophen content, this strength has been discontinued and replaced with Hydrocodone 5/325mg formulations, which meet FDA safety standards and reduce the likelihood of acetaminophen-related liver damage.

Always store securely, never share with others, and use only under a doctor’s supervision.