Xodol ® is the brand name of hydrocodone and acetaminophen, also marketed under names including Lorcet, Lortab, Anexsia, Hycet, Norco, Vicodin and Zydone. Hydrocodone is a narcotic pain reliever. Acetaminophen is a less potent painkiller but increases the effects of hydrocodone. The combination aims to relieve moderate to severe pain. Hydrocodone bitartrate is a semi-synthetic opioid derived from codeine and thebaine, both naturally occurring opiates.
What is Xodol ( hydrocodone and acetaminophen) used for?
It is an analgesic drug that treats pain and is an antitussive which suppresses chronic coughing. Hydrocodone is derived from the opium plant and can be addictive. Xodol is considered a Schedule II controlled substance in the U.S. because of its potential to cause dependence and be abused. Preparations containing hydrocodone typically come in tablet, capsule and syrup form. Hydrocodone is the narcotic component that attaches to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain. Acetaminophen is a non-narcotic pain reliever that decreases the formation of prostaglandins and increases pain-relieving power.
Xodol Warnings
Xodol is intended to be taken orally. Crushing, chewing or snorting opiate drugs can lead to severe side effects or overdose. As with other opiates, warnings from manufacturers say Xodol should not be taken more often or in larger doses than what is prescribed. Anyone who has more than three alcoholic drinks per day or cirrhosis of the liver should talk to a doctor before taking any medication with acetaminophen. An overdose of acetaminophen can cause serious harm to the liver. The maximum recommended amount of acetaminophen for an adult is 1,000 mg per dose and 4,000 mg in a day. Do not combine any prescription drug with acetaminophen with any over-the-counter medications containing it. Doctors recommend knowing the amount of acetaminophen in each medication you take.
Possible Side Effects
Constipation, upset stomach, nausea, dizziness and dry mouth are considered among the most commonly reported side effects. Less common, but more serious, side effects include allergic reaction, clammy skin, seizures, extreme weakness, unconsciousness, jaundice, bleeding, bruising, decreased appetite, hot flashes, rash, itching, swelling, hearing loss, decreased sex drive and muscle twitches. Because of the hydrocodone, Xodol can also depress the central nervous system. Other side effects, which may attract some recreational users, include extreme relaxation, euphoria and drowsiness.
Xodol Risks of Tolerance and Addiction, Withdrawal and Overdose
Taken as prescribed, Xodol can be useful in the treatment of pain. Prolonged use can cause patients to develop a tolerance which requires them to take more and more to stop the pain. If addiction takes hold, withdrawal symptoms can set in quickly if use is stopped abruptly. They include muscle and bone pain, insomnia, restlessness, diarrhea, vomiting, other flu-like symptoms and involuntary leg movements. Overdosing on Xodol or other opiates can be fatal. Kicking a Xodol addiction can be difficult. Numerous treatment options are available on an in-patient or out-patient basis for opiate dependence. They include hospital-based detoxification, rehabilitation, faith or therapy-based programs and rapid drug detox.