Hydrocodone is used to help relieve severe ongoing pain. Hydrocodone belongs to a class of drugs known as opioid analgesics. It works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain.

Do not use the extended-release form of hydrocodone to relieve pain that is mild or that will go away in a few days. This medication is not for occasional (“as needed”) use.

See also Warning section.

Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking hydrocodone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication on a regular schedule as directed by your doctor, not as needed for sudden (breakthrough) pain. Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually every 12 hours. You may take this drug with or without food. If you have nausea, it may help to take this drug with food. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to decrease nausea (such as lying down for 1 to 2 hours with as little head movement as possible).

Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush, chew, or dissolve the capsules. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. Properly stop the medication when so directed.