Hydrocodone & Acetaminophen, also commonly known as Norco or Vicodin, is frequently prescribed by dentists. It’s critical that dentists understand the risks associated with Hydrocodone & Acetaminophen. Read on to learn:
Generic Name: Hydrocodone Bitartrate and Acetaminophen
Brand Name(s): Anexsia, Hycet, Norco, Liquicet, Lorcet, Lorcet Plus, Lortab, Maxidone, Vicodin, Vicodin ES, Verdrocet, Xodol, Zamicet, Zolvit, Zydone
Pronunciation: hye droe KOE done and a SEET a MIN oh fen
About this drug:
Hydrocodone & Acetaminophen is used to relieve moderate to severe pain.
It contains an opioid narcotic and may become habit forming.
Dentistry-related tidbits:
Hydrocodone & Acetaminophen may cause xerostomia if used long-term.
This medication can decrease blood pressure. Always check the patient’s blood pressure and pulse before a procedure.
Monitor blood pressure when administering Bupivacaine, Lidocaine, Mepivacaine, and Ropivacaine to a patient taking Hydrocodone & Acetaminophen, as the combination may increase the risk of methemoglobinemia and severe hypotension.
Respiratory depression (serious breathing problem) occurs more frequently in the elderly. This medication may also cause severe lightheadedness, fainting, and problems with balance, especially in the elderly.
For post-procedural pain, first attempt pain control by prescribing 400-600 mg of Ibuprofen and 500-1000 mg of Acetaminophen at the same time. Take every 6 hours as needed for pain. Never exceed 4000 mg per day to avoid liver complications. Consider using Bupivacaine (Marcaine) local anesthetic to minimize post-op pain.
Metoprolol has numerous drug interactions with commonly prescribed NSAIDs, antibiotics, antifungals, benzodiazepines, muscle relaxants, and more. Make sure to check for potential interactions before prescribing using a tool like Rx Check.
Consider prescribing Naloxone (Narcan) if there is a risk of opioid overdose or accidental ingestion.
Fun facts:
This medication has multiple FDA Warnings. Examples include risks for medication errors, addiction and abuse, respiratory depression, and concomitant use with benzodiazepines/other CNS depressants. Ensure you are aware of these warnings before prescribing any medications.
Do not prescribe this medication if the patient is pregnant to avoid life-threatening symptoms in the baby.
Instruct patients to not take additional Acetaminophen while taking this medication to avoid liver problems.
Vicodin was reformulated in 2012 to comply with FDA regulations limiting the amount of Acetaminophen in each dose.
Three million US citizens and 16 million individuals worldwide have had or currently suffer from opioid use disorder (OUD).
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