Lortab (acetaminophen and hydrocodone)

LORTAB (acetaminophen and hydrocodone) is used to relieve moderate to moderately severe pain.

How should this medicine be used?
The combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone comes as a tablet, capsule, and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken every 4-6 hours as needed. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take acetaminophen and hydrocodone exactly as directed.
Hydrocodone can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer period than your doctor tells you to.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking Lortab,
• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to acetaminophen, codeine, hydrocodone, sulfite, or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially acetaminophen (Tylenol); antidepressants; medications for cough, cold, or allergies; other pain relievers; sedatives; sleeping pills; tranquilizers; and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease, a history of alcoholism, lung or thyroid disease, prostatic hypertrophy, or urinary retention.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking acetaminophen and hydrocodone, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking acetaminophen and hydrocodone.
• you should know that this drug may make you drowsy and dizzy; do not drive a car or operate heavy machinery until you know how acetaminophen and hydrocodone affects you.
• talk to your doctor about the safe use of alcohol. Alcohol may alter the effectiveness of acetaminophen and hydrocodone.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
This medication usually is taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take acetaminophen and hydrocodone regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Although side effects from acetaminophen and hydrocodone are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
• lightheadedness
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• upset stomach
• vomiting
• constipation
• stomach pain
• rash
• difficulty urinating
If you experience either of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
• difficulty breathing
• mood changes.

What storage conditions are needed for this medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.