Sunday, July 1, 2007

Understanding the Dangers Associated With Taking Lortab

Lortab is classified as a narcotic analgesic, which contains hydrocodone and acetaminophen, and generally prescribed as a pain reliever to those who suffer from severe or moderate levels of pain.

It is important that you are informed and educated on all possible aspects when it comes to Lortab. For instance, the pain reliever is extremely addictive so it is really important that you do not take any more of this medication than prescribed by your doctor.

Taking Lortab for longer or for more than prescribed could result in very unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when you do stop taking the medicine.

It is of the ut most importance that you avoid alcohol at all times while taking this prescription medication. Lortab and alcohol combined are a lethal combination. The two combined can lead to high instances of dizziness and drowsiness already caused by Lortab. On the same note, you should avoid other medication that causes sleepiness when taking Lortab, or the effects could be increased.

Constipation could also result from taking Lortab. You can lessen these instances by ensuring you drink at least eight full glasses of water daily and increase your consumption of fiber.

Any person who has or has had a history of Addison's disease, head injury, gallbladder disease, epilepsy, seizures, hypothyroidism, prostate enlargement, urinary issues, asthma, liver disease, kidney disease, alcoholism, or drug abuse, should avoid Lortab or be closely monitored by a physician when taking this pain reliever.

If you even suspect you might be pregnant or become pregnant, talk to your doctor. This medication may cause some serious problems for an unborn baby.

Not unlike all types of medication, Lortab has some common and serious side effects to those taking the pain reliever. Common, and less serious side effects of Lortab may include less desire to have sex, lessened urination, itchiness, sweating, twitching muscles, lightheadedness, drowsiness, dizziness, decrease in appetite, vomiting, nausea, dry mouth or constipation.

Serious side effects of Lortab require immediate care from a doctor right away. Some serious side effects include unusual bruising, unusual bleeding, and unusual fatigue, yellow of eyes, yellowing of skin, unconsciousness, severe dizziness, severe weakness, clammy skin, cold skin, seizures, weak or slowed breathing or symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Patients, who have been prescribed an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) such as Parnate, Nardil, or Marplan, should not take Lortab within fourteen days of taking these medications. If taken earlier, this could result in very dangerous and serious side effects. It is for this reason, that you should make your doctor fully aware of any and all medication (prescribed or over the counter) you are taking as well as herbs, minerals, or vitamins prior to prescribing Lortab to relieve your pain.


Disclaimer
- The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to a qualified professional for more information about Lortab.

[Copyright © 2007, Heather Colman. Find more of Heather's articles at eBook Palace. Her articles are available for syndication. Reprinting individual articles is permissible provided no changes are made.]

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