Generic Lortab

There are currently several versions of generic Lortab (hydrocodone/APAP) available. These generic products, which are sold under the name hydrocodone/APAP, come in tablet and elixir form. It is important to note that most pharmacies do not even keep brand-name Lortab in stock because generic Lortab is significantly less expensive than the brand-name version.

 

Lortab Generic: An Overview

Lortab® (hydrocodone/APAP) is a prescription pain medication. It contains two different medications: acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and hydrocodone (a narcotic). "APAP" is an acronym for one of the chemical names for acetaminophen.
 
All Lortab products are marketed by UCB Pharma, Inc. Lortab 5/500 and Lortab 10/500 are made by Mallinckrodt, while Lortab 2.5/500, Lortab 7.5/500, and Lortab Elixir are made by Mikart, Inc. However, the patents for Lortab have expired, and generic versions of all Lortab products are available.
 

Strengths of Generic Lortab

Generic Lortab is available in the following strengths:
 
  • Hydrocodone/APAP 2.5/500 mg tablets
  • Hydrocodone/APAP 5/500 mg tablets
  • Hydrocodone/APAP 7.5/500 mg tablets
  • Hydrocodone/APAP 10/500 mg tablets
  • Hydrocodone/APAP 7.5/500 mg elixir (7.5/500 mg per tablespoonful).
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The first number in the strength (such as 2.5) refers to the strength of hydrocodone. The second number refers to the acetaminophen content.
 

Can I Get "Real" Lortab?

Many pharmacies do not keep brand-name Lortab in stock. Generic Lortab is significantly less expensive, and many insurance companies require people to use the generic products. If you are willing to pay full price, as your insurance is not likely to cover brand-name Lortab, your pharmacy may be willing to stock brand-name Lortab for you.
 
However, many healthcare providers view requests for brand-name narcotics as a sign of abuse or diversion (selling the drugs to someone else), because brand-name narcotics usually have a higher street value than their generic versions. In almost all situations, a request for a brand-name narcotic instead of a generic may arouse your healthcare provider's suspicions.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;