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Hydrocodone a controlled narcotic that is a opiate synthesized from Thebaine a constituent of opium. It is commonly prescribed in tablet form and is in 5, 7.5 and 10 milligram strengths. It is also in cough syrup and all opiates are natural cough suppressants. Hydrocodone is used to treating moderate to severe chronic pain. And commonly prescribed for tooth aches and is very effective for this appplication. It is commonly sold in tablet form under the Brand- names; Vicodin, Lorcet, Lortab, Zydone etc. They claim 10 milligrams of morphine is like 15mg's of Hydrocodone.

Hydrocodone was first developed by the Germans in 1920. Hydrocodone works like all opiates by binding to pain receptors in the spine. Basically in short imagine a pain receptor like a garden hose, water represents pain flowing through it. A golf ball placed on top of the end of this hose blocks the flow of water. This is a simple way of explaining how opiates work, masking pain. LIke shutting off a valve. BUt a ball is the best analogy, because the opiate eventually falls off. How hard the ball sticks and how long is the affinity and potency of the drug.

Contrary to what people might think, Hydrocodone hits other or more pain receptor splices thus making it actually better for pain analgesia than Oxycodone. Oxycodone offers a more intoxicating effect but there is no evidence it is stronger in relieving pain. It is my personal believe Hydrocodone lasts longer in a pain scenario.

HYdrocodone of course and sadly can be abused and has potential for abuse. If a person is prescribed Hydrocodone it is imperative that they take exactly as prescribed or even less. As with all opiates the lowest possible working dose is the most effective. Perhaps even only as needed. THat is my theory. Hydrocodone physical dependence results in typical opiate withdrawal with the withdrawal period lasting up to 14 days . The level of addiction is generated in regards to longevity of use, how much is used etc. Withdrawal results in atypical opiate withdrawal symptoms that include diarrhea, sweats, fever like symptoms, muscle pain, stomach cramping etc. These symptoms disappear again depending on the longevity of the use but can be gone in as little as 3 days for a first time user of the drug. It is very important for a patient to realize that a person cannot live pain free 24 hours around the clock. Opiates are best used sparingly and the lowest possible working dose is the best route of oral administration.

Vicodin

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