Hydrocodone/APAP products (such as Hycet) are commonly abused. Such products are readily available and inexpensive, especially in generic form. Because Hycet is a highly desired drug of abuse, people often obtain it through illegal means, such as from foreign countries or online sources that do not require a prescription. People who abuse Hycet and suddenly stop using it are likely to experience withdrawal symptoms.
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General considerations for when and how to take Hycet include the following:
The medication comes in oral solution (liquid) form. It is taken by mouth, usually every four to six hours as needed for pain.
Do not use a household measuring spoon to dose Hycet, as such spoons are not accurate enough. Make sure your pharmacist gives you an appropriate device (such as an oral syringe or a medication measuring spoon) to take Hycet.
It is best to take Hycet with food, as this may help reduce stomach upset.
Hycet is either taken "as needed" or on a scheduled basis. "As needed" means you will only take a dose if you are experiencing pain (if you are not in pain, you will skip the dose), while "scheduled use" means you should take it on schedule, even if you are not in pain. Most healthcare providers prescribe Hycet on an "as needed" basis, rather than a scheduled basis.
Be careful not to exceed the maximum recommended daily dose, as this could lead to overdose symptoms or to poisoning from the acetaminophen component, which can cause liver failure.
For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Do not increase your dose without your healthcare provider's approval. Do not suddenly stop taking Hycet, especially if you have taken it regularly for more than several weeks (see Hydrocodone/APAP Withdrawal).
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