Hydrocodone

Category: pharmacological

Aliases: Vicodin, Norco, Zohydro

Pharmacological Mechanism

Prodrug — CYP2D6 O-demethylates to hydromorphone, which is the more potent active metabolite. CYP2D6 poor metabolisers get reduced analgesia. µ-opioid receptor agonist (same family as morphine). Most commonly co-formulated with acetaminophen, whose 4 g/day ceiling sets the hard dose cap.

Half-Life (t½)

PO: 4h

Dosing Guidelines

Target Organ Systems