Vicodin ES 7.5/750 mg was a prescription opioid medication containing 7.5 mg of hydrocodone bitartrate and 750 mg of acetaminophen per tablet. It was historically used for the management of pain when an opioid analgesic was considered appropriate.
Hydrocodone is an opioid pain reliever that acts on the central nervous system, while acetaminophen is a non-opioid analgesic that also helps relieve pain. Because hydrocodone can cause serious risks including misuse, dependence, addiction, sedation, and potentially life-threatening respiratory depression, opioid-containing medicines should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional.
The 7.5 mg/750 mg formulation is an older Vicodin ES formulation. The FDA approved Vicodin ES with this strength historically, but the Vicodin brand is now listed as discontinued in the United States. Current hydrocodone/acetaminophen products may have different formulations and strengths and should not be assumed to be equivalent to the older Vicodin ES product.
Because this medication contains acetaminophen, patients should also be careful about taking other medicines containing acetaminophen at the same time. Excessive acetaminophen intake can cause severe liver damage.
Vicodin and other hydrocodone-containing opioid medications should be taken only as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Patients should discuss their medical history, other medications, and any concerns about side effects or dependence with their doctor or pharmacist.
