Vicodin is a popular trademarked brand of narcotic analgesics. This highly potent painkiller, also referred to as “Vicodin ES” or “Vicodin HP,” contains hydrocodone and paracetamol and is usually sold in tablet form. Many recommend the use of Vicodin because of its hydrocodone/paracetamol drug formula - the hydrocodone increases the effects of the drug in relieving pain, but discourages drug abuse because of its low paracetamol content (use of drugs for recreation requires toxic amounts of paracetamol).
Vicodin is commonly prescribed for relief to severe to moderate , acute, chronic, or post-operative pains. Aside from this, Vicodin also has depressant effects on the central nervous system. The drug belongs to the opiate family of drugs, as it contains narcotic alkaloids found in opium.
Although there are only a few recorded deaths caused by Vicodin, its excessive abuse could still give disturbing side effects. Some of these symptoms include allergic reaction, jaundice (yellowing of eyes or skin), unusual fatigue, seizures, clammy skin, severe weakness, dizziness, hyperventilation, tinnitus, hearing loss, decreased urination, unconsciousness,bleeding, bruising, stomach pain, constipation, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, muscle twitches, sweating, hot flashes, itching, and decreased sex drive.
The basic analgesics formula in Vicodin can also be found under these other trade names: Anexsia, Bancap HC, Anolor DH5, Dolacet, Hydro, Norco, Vadunk, Lorcet, Lortab, and T-Gesic.