Vicodin

Alternative names

Lorcet; Lortab; Hydrocodone and acetaminophen overdose

Definition

This poisoning is from an overdose of acetaminophen and hydrocodone.

Poisonous Ingredient

• Acetaminophen
  
• Hydrocodone (oral narcotic)
  

Where Found

• Lortab
  
• Lorcet
  
• Vicodin
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• Respiratory
  o Breathing slow and labored (effect of the hydrocodone)
  o Breathing shallow (hydrocodone)
  o Respiratory arrest (hydrocodone)
  
• Eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o Pinpoint pupils (from the hydrocodone)
  
• Skin
  o Bluish skin (fingernails and lips)
  
• Gastrointestinal
  o Spasms of the stomach and/or intestinal tract
  o Vomiting
  o Acetaminophen overdose over a certain toxic level leads to liver failure, unless the antidote, N-Acetyl-cysteine, is given
  
• Heart and blood vessels
  o Low blood pressure (hydrocodone)
  
• Nervous system
  o Drowsiness (hydrocodone)
  

Home Treatment
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Seek emergency medical care immediately.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following:

• The patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• The name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
  
• The time it was swallowed
  
• The amount swallowed
  
• It the medication was prescribed for the patient
  

Poison Control, or a local emergency number
See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Take the container with you to the emergency room.

What to expect at the emergency room

Some or all of the following procedures may be performed: