Vicodin is a prescription medication used to treat pain that is moderate to moderately severe. Vicodin is a narcotic, opioid pain medication that also contains acetaminophen. This medication is mainly used to treat short-term pain, but it is occasionally prescribed to treat long-term chronic pain. Like all medications, side effects can occur. It can also be effective in relieving a cough, but can also cause mental clouding, mood changes and drowsiness. Vicodin side effects are mild in most patients when they occur. If a side effect is particularly bothersome your healthcare provider can usually recommend ways in which to help you effectively cope with the bothersome side effects.
Guide to Vicodin Side Effects: Common Side Effects of Vicodin
Patients who take Vicodin may experience some or none of the common side effects of Vicodin. In most cases, these side effects are mild and go away within a few weeks of taking this medication. If any of these side effects become worse or persist, contact your healthcare professional. The common side effects of Vicodin include dizziness, lightheadedness, constipation, vomiting, nausea and drowsiness.
Guide to Vicodin Side Effects: Coping With the Common Side Effects of Vicodin
All of the common side effects of Vicodin can be coped with. Constipation can be alleviated with increased water intake, better diet and a stool softener. Be sure to talk to your doctor to help you decide which stool softener is right for you. If the constipation becomes severe, contact your doctor as soon as possible. The lightheadedness and dizziness can be coped with by rising from a sitting or lying position slowly and making sure to sit down when these side effects occur. If you are getting drowsy, take a short nap during the day. If you experience nausea, drink some ginger ale and lie down for a bit and try taking your medication with food. Also, avoid greasy foods if you are experiencing nausea. If you vomit, eat light meals and drink more water. If the vomiting last more than a few days contact your healthcare provider.
Guide to Vicodin Side Effects: Serious Side Effects of Vicodin
Vicodin can prevent serious side effects in some patients. These side effects occur infrequently, but if you experience any of them contact your healthcare professional as soon as possible. Serious side effects of Vicodin include severe constipation, urge to take more Vicodin that indicated, fear or anxiety, trouble urinating, slowed heart rate, confusion, severe drowsiness, irregular or slow breathing, low blood pressure and signs of liver damage. Signs of liver damage include dark urine, pain in your upper right abdominal area and jaundice.
An allergic reaction to Vicodin is not very common, but it is very serious. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Vicodin include trouble breathing, unexplained rash, wheezing, hives, swollen throat or mouth and itching (typically intense).
If you experience any allergic reactions symptoms get medical attention immediately. If you experience any of the serious side effects of Vicodin or signs of liver damage get medical attention immediately. If any of the common symptoms are particularly bothersome consult a healthcare professional. If you experience any side effects that are not listed here consult a heathcare professional. Vicodin is well-tolerated by most patients, but if you feel that something isn’t right get yourself checked out.
