Hydrocodone
Hydrocodone is an opioid analgesic and antitussive. It works by binding to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system to alter the perception of and response to pain, and suppresses the cough reflex in the brainstem. Due to its high potential for abuse, addiction, and fatal overdose, its use is heavily restricted and strictly regulated.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be strictly individualized by a healthcare provider. Immediate-release combination formulations are typically administered every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Extended-release formulations are administered every 12 or 24 hours. Pediatric dosing is not standardized by body weight and is generally contraindicated in young children.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Strictly contraindicated due to extreme risk of fatal respiratory depression.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy have not been established in infants and toddlers.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Avoid use
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Opioids pose extreme risk of life-threatening respiratory depression in young children.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Avoid use
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- FDA warns against using hydrocodone-containing cough/cold medicines in children under 18.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Not routine / Avoid use
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Avoid use unless prescribed under the direct supervision of a pediatric pain specialist.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Contraindicated | Do not use | Strictly contraindicated due to extreme risk of fatal respiratory depression. |
| 5-7 kg | Contraindicated | Do not use | Safety and efficacy have not been established in infants and toddlers. |
| 8-10 kg | Not routine / Avoid use | Do not use | Opioids pose extreme risk of life-threatening respiratory depression in young children. |
| 11-15 kg | Not routine / Avoid use | Do not use | FDA warns against using hydrocodone-containing cough/cold medicines in children under 18. |
| 16-20 kg | Not routine / Avoid use | Do not use | Avoid use unless prescribed under the direct supervision of a pediatric pain specialist. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to relieve moderate to severe pain, and as an antitussive (cough suppressant) in adults.
Generic Name
Hydrocodone bitartrateBranded Drug Names
Hydrocodone is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.