Mechanism of action of Hydrocodone

Mechanism of action of Hydrocodone

Acts at opioid receptors in the CNS to produce analgesia, euphoria, sedation; acts in medullary cough center to depress cough reflex.

Indications of Hydrocodone

1. Suppresses cough reflex by direct action on cough center in the medulla.
2. Available only in combination products.

Contraindications of Hydrocodone

Use caution in the presence of pregnancy, labor, lactation, bronchial asthma, COPD, respiratory depression, anoxia, increased intracranial pressure, debilitation, postoperative state.

Adverse effects of Hydrocodone

* CNS: Sedation, clamminess, sweating, headache, vertigo, floating
feeling, dizziness, lethargy, confusion, lightheadedness
* GI: Dry mouth, anorexia, constipation, nausea, biliary tract spasm
* Dermatologic: Rash, hives, pruritus, flushing, warmth, sensitivity to
cold