Considerations for people taking Vicodin include the following:
The medication comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth, usually every four to six hours as needed for pain.
Vicodin 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 Vicodin on an "as needed" basis, rather than a scheduled basis.
It is best to take Vicodin with food, as this may help reduce stomach upset.
Be careful not to exceed the maximum recommended daily dose of Vicodin, 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 Vicodin, especially if you have taken it regularly for more than several weeks (see Vicodin Withdrawal).
If you are unsure about anything related to your Vicodin dosage, please talk with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Do not stop taking the drug without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.
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