Xodol

Generic name: hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen

Drug class: Narcotic analgesic combinations

Dosage form: Tablets

Route of administration: Oral

Dose:

• 5 mg hydrocodone bitartrate and 300 mg acetaminophen: 1 or 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain; maximum of 8 tablets per day.
• 7.5 mg hydrocodone bitartrate and 300 mg acetaminophen: 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain; maximum of 6 tablets per day.
• 10 mg hydrocodone bitartrate and 300 mg acetaminophen: 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain; maximum of 6 tablets per day.

Mechanism of action: Hydrocodone bitartrate is an opioid analgesic that binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain signals. Acetaminophen is a non-opioid analgesic that inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins, chemicals in the body that promote inflammation, pain, and fever.

Drug usage cases:

• Management of moderate to severe pain.
• Management of severe pain severe enough to require an opioid analgesic when other pain treatments are inadequate or not tolerated.

Drug contraindications:

• Severe asthma, breathing problems, or other lung conditions.
• Known hypersensitivity to hydrocodone, acetaminophen, or any component of the formulation.
• Acute or severe bronchial asthma or hypercarbia.
• Known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus.

Side effects:

• Dizziness, drowsiness, and fatigue.
• Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
• Constipation.
• Headache.
• Light-headedness or fainting.
• Respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening.
• Severe skin reactions, including redness, blistering, and peeling.
• Signs of liver problems: nausea, upper stomach pain, tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• Signs of low cortisol levels: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness, worsening tiredness or weakness.
• Signs of high serotonin levels: agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, twitching, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.

Warnings:

• Risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death.
• Serious breathing problems, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose.
• Risk of liver damage due to acetaminophen, especially with high doses or prolonged use.
• Risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic drugs.
• Risk of adrenal insufficiency, especially with prolonged use.
• Risk of severe skin reactions, including redness, blistering, and peeling.
• Risk of respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening.

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Prolonged use during pregnancy can cause withdrawal symptoms in the newborn, which can be life-threatening if not recognized and treated. Hydrocodone and acetaminophen pass into breast milk and may harm the nursing infant. It is recommended to avoid breastfeeding during treatment with this medication.