Some people may experience mild or moderate pain in their body due to muscle cramps, injury, disease, etc. These pains have significantly restricted individuals’ everyday tasks, impacting their mental health, disrupting sleep, etc. The pain may cause a feeling of aching, burning, and sensation in the affected area.
Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) estimated that 20.9% of adults in the USA are experiencing chronic pain due to various factors. Acute and chronic pain in 23.1% of the females is more likely impacted as compared to 18.1% of the males.
In today’s blog, we will discuss and explore the differences between Lortab and Vicodin medicines which are prescribed by most healthcare experts. Let’s start.
Differences Between Lortab And Vicodin
Lortab
Lortab is a painkiller that is used to treat pain caused due to illness, muscle pain, injury, etc. It contains hydrocodone which is an opioid component and acetaminophen, a non-opioid component. it is used in treating mild or short-term pain.
It is a prescription drug which is prescribed by the doctor. It is available only in generic form. The brand medicines of Lortab are no longer available in the USA.
There may be generic equivalents available that have been approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). It is a Scheduled II control substance which has a higher potential for addiction and abuse. Mallinckrodt Inc. is the manufacturing company of this drug in the generic version in the US.
Vicodin
Vicodin is also an opioid pain medicine that is used to provide relief from pain in the body. It also contains hydrocodone and acetaminophen. It is a prescription medicine that can be opted through prescription by the healthcare expert.
Vicodin treats moderate to moderately severe pain caused by different factors. It is sold in both branded as well as generic forms, however, the branded form is discontinued in the USA due to its higher concentration of acetaminophen which can cause damage to the liver. The FDA may approve its generic drugs.
It is also a Scheduled II control substance which has a high potential for abuse and can lead to psychological and physical dependence. The manufacturing company of Vicodin generic form is Mikart, Inc.
Working
Lortab
Lortob works by binding the mu-opioid receptors in the spinal cord and brain. The primary ingredient hydrocodone, that is present in this drug helps to minimize the transmission of pain signals in the nerves. In addition, it also activates kappa- and delta-opioid receptors to provide analgesic effects.
Acetaminophen, this is the secondary ingredient in Lortab is used to block the prostaglandins, a chemical that causes fever and pain.
Vicodin
Vicodin also works the same as Lortob because its components are similar. Hydrocodone also binds with the receptors for inhibiting the neurotransmitters (pain signals) from the brain and spinal cord. It also reduces the activity of sensory neurons that cause pain in the spinal cord.
It is believed that acetaminophen acts outside of the central nervous system (CNS). The production and activity of prostaglandins and cyclooxygenase enzymes is restricted which helps to decrease the pain transmission and helps to provide relief in pain.
Uses
Lortab
Lortab is used to treat mild to severe pain. It is also used to relieve congestion and coughing. It provides relief from headaches, menstrual cramps, and toothaches. You should take this medicine under the guidance of a certified doctor.
Before taking this medicine discuss the benefits and risks of the drug with your healthcare expert to avoid severe side effects.
Vicodin
Vicodin is used to provide relief from pain. It is often used to manage other pain after surgery such as abdominal, dental, and orthopedic surgery chronic pain conditions like severe back pain, arthritis or fibromyalgia, and traumatic injuries including head injuries or broken bones.
Dose and Dosage Strengths
Lortab
Dose
Lortab is available in only liquid form, not in tablet form, which is also known as a Lortab elixir. It is a type of yellow-colored tropical fruit punch-flavored fluid. The available strengths of this drug are:
- 2.8 ml
- 3.75 ml
- 5.6 ml
- 7.5 ml
- 11.25 ml
- 15 ml
Dosage
The initial dosage of this drug is 11.25 ml for adults and for children 3.75 ml every 4-6 hours or as prescribed by the doctor based on the patient’s condition.
Vicodin
Dose
The tablets of Vicodin are shaped oblong and it is white. The strengths and doses available of Vicodin are:
- Vicodin ES: 7.5 mg/300 g
- Vicodin: 5 mg/300 g
- Vicodin HP: 10 mg/300 mg
Dosage
The starting dose of Vicodin tablets should be consumed one to two tablets in every 4-6 hours. The amount of dose should not exceed eight tablets as it may cause adverse effects in the body.
Side Effects
As Lortab and Vicodin contain the same mixtures of hydrocodone and acetaminophen, they also have similar common side effects. They are as follows:
- Anxiety
- Headache
- Skin rash
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Lightheadedness
- Dry throat
- Stomach pain
Serious side effects of both these drugs include:
- Loss of appetite
- Fast heart rate
- Breathing problem
- Sedation
- Jaundice
- Abdominal pain
- Respiratory issues
Precautions
- Patients who drink alcohol should avoid these drugs as they may increase the concentration of hydrocodone and enhance the CNS depressant effects.
- Store the medicines at room temperature.
- Do not overdose on the medicines as you can experience adverse side effects.
- Never consume these medicines for a longer time or in large amounts.
- Follow the instructions of your healthcare advisor properly.
- Try to measure Lortab liquid with a dosing syringe or special dose-measuring spoon.
- If the drugs are not working properly, then inform your doctor immediately.
- Read the medicines label carefully before taking them. If you have any questions, ask your doctor to guide you properly.
- These medicines are only available with a prescription. It cannot be sold without a prescription.
- Misuse of these medicines can lead to death and addiction in adults and children.
- The drugs can be habit-forming even regular doses so consult your doctor if you are having an urge to take it more.
- Avoid those works that need alertness and focus.
