Does Hydrocodone Interact with Hydrocodone Bitartrate?
Hydrocodone and Hydrocodone Bitartrate have a major drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Alcohol Clinical Impact: Concomitant use of alcohol with hydrocodone bitartrate extended-release capsules can result in an increase of hydrocodone plasma levels and potentially fatal overdose of hydrocodone. Intervention: Instruct patients not to consume alcoholic beverages or use prescription or non-prescription products containing alcohol while on hydrocodone bitartrate extended-release capsules therapy [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Inhibitors of CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of hydrocodone bitartrate extended-release capsules and CYP3A4 inhibitors can increase the plasma concentration of hydrocodone, resulting in increased or prolonged opioid effects. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Major
- Management
- Close medical supervision required
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Hydrocodone and your doctor is considering prescribing Hydrocodone Bitartrate (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask how frequently you should be monitored while these are co-prescribed
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider