Hydrocodone adverse effects

Codeine,oxycodone, dihydrocodeine, and hydrocodone are all somewhat less efficacious than morphine (they are partial agonists) or have adverse effects that limit the maximum tolerated dose when one attempts to achieve analgesia comparable to that of morphine. 

General precautions associated with the use of all opioid agonists should be observed with the use of hydrocodone bitartrate respiratory depression and adverse CNS effects are primary concerns, and the use of hydrocodone should be individually tailored in those patients at risk for these complications, if undertaken at all. Particular attention is warranted in... 

The most common side effects of hydrocodone include CNS reactions (dizziness, lightheadedness, sedation) and GI disturbances (nausea and vomiting), both of which can be exacerbated in ambulatory versus recumbent patients and possibly ameliorated by adopting the supine position. Other adverse reactions include constipation, urinary retention, dysphoria and/or euphoria, rash, and pruritus. Patients should also be advised that the use of hydrocodone may impair the performance of certain daily activities that require increased physical coordination or mental acuity, such as driving or operating machinery. Because hydrocodone is only available in commercial preparations combining it with other medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetominophen, observation of the precautions associated with those adjunct agents is obviously also warranted. 

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