Patient was educated on contraindications for using Vicodin as follows:
- Vicodin must be avoided in individuals allergic to Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone.
- Vicodin slows down the bowel movements heavily and leads to constipation. Vicodin must be avoided or used with extreme caution in chronically constipated patients, as they are at increased risk for episodes of ileus and intestinal obstruction with Vicodin.
- Vicodin produces and intense feeling of drowsiness and dizziness, as a side effect to modifying the pain perception of brain. Patients can also experience hallucinations and mood changes due to Vicodin use. Vicodin must be avoided or used with extreme caution in individuals taking antidepressants and other psychotropic medications that have the potential to induce hallucinations and mood changes.
- Vicodin is metabolized by the liver and Vicodin intake can lead to hepatic injury. Individuals with history of compromised liver function cannot metabolize Vicodin and this can lead to increased blood levels of Vicodin for longer duration, leading to toxicity. Vicodin should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
- Vicodin is mainly excreted in the urine. Individuals with compromised renal functions tend to retain the drug in the circulation longer, thus resulting in toxicity. Vicodin should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals.
