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Lortab |
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What is Lortab and why is it prescribed? Lortab combines a narcotic analgesic and cough reliever with a non-narcotic analgesic for the relief of moderate to moderately severe pain. Lortab can be habit-forming. If you take Lortab over a long period of time, you can become mentally and physically dependent on it, and you may find it no longer works for you at the prescribed dosage. How should you take Lortab? Follow your doctors directions for taking Lortab. Do not increase the amount you take or the frequency without your doctor's approval. Do not take Lortab for any reason other than the one prescribed. Do not give Lortab to others who may have similar symptoms. If you miss a dose and you take Lortab regularly, take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two Lortab doses at once. Store Lortab at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from light. Are there any Lortab side effects? Lortab side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Lortab side effects may include dizziness, light-headedness, nausea, sedation, and vomiting. If these side effects occur, it may help if you lie down after taking the medication. Less common or rare Lortab side effects may include allergic reactions, anxiety, blood disorders, constipation, decreased mental and physical capability, difficulty urinating, drowsiness, fear, hearing loss, itching, mental clouding, mood changes, restlessness, skin rash, slowed breathing, and sluggishness. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Lortab? If Lortab is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Lortab slows the nervous system. Alcohol can intensify this effect. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lortab with Antianxiety drugs (such as Valium and Librium), Antidepressant medications classified as "tricyclics" (such as Elavil and Tofranil), Antihistamines (such as Tavist), Drugs classified as MAO inhibitors (including the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate), Major tranquilizers (such as Thorazine and Haldol), Other narcotic analgesics (such as Demerol), or Other central nervous system depressants (such as Halcion and Restoril). Are there any special warnings about Lortab? Lortab may make you drowsy, less alert, or unable to function well physically. Use caution in taking Lortab if you have a head injury. Narcotics tend to increase the pressure of the fluid within the skull, and this effect may be exaggerated by head injuries. Side effects of narcotics can interfere in the treatment of people with head injuries. Use Lortab with caution if you have a severe liver or kidney disorder, an underactive thyroid gland, Addison's disease, an enlarged prostate, or urethral stricture. Older adults and those in a weakened condition should be careful using Lortab, since it contains a narcotic. Narcotics such as Lortab may interfere with the diagnosis and treatment of people with abdominal conditions. Lortab suppresses the cough reflex. Be careful using Lortab after an operation or if you have a lung disease. High doses of Lortab may produce slowed breathing. If you are sensitive to Lortab, you are more likely to experience this effect. |
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