
Vicodin is used to relieve moderate-to-severe pain. Vicodin is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Vicodin passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. If you are younger than 18 years of age or older than 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Vicodin. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose.
Take Vicodin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Take Vicodin with food or milk if it causes stomach upset. To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of Vicodin with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one. Vicodin may cause constipation. Drink plenty of water (six to eight full glasses a day) to lessen this side effect. Increased fiber in the diet may also help to alleviate constipation.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take a double dose of this medication. Wait the prescribed amount of time before taking the next dose.
Store Vicodin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Your pharmacist has additional information about Vicodin written for health professionals that you may read. |