Vicodin Statistics
4,5-alpha-epoxy-3-methoxy-17-methyl-morphinan-6-one
CAS number 125-29-1
ATC code R05DA03
Vicodin chemical formula C18H21NO3
Molecular weight 299.368
Bioavailability ?
Metabolism ?
Elimination half-life 4-8 Hours
Excretion ?
Pregnancy category ?
Legal status Schedule II (DEA)
Vicodin routes of administration Oral, syrup
Vicodin (chemical synonym: dihydrocodeinone; trade names: Vicodin, Anexsia,
Dicodid, Hycodan, Hycomine, Lorcet, Lortab, Norco, Tussionex) is an opioid
derived from either of the naturally occurring opiates -- codeine or thebaine.
Vicodin is an orally active narcotic analgesic and antitussive which is marketed
in multi-ingredient Schedule III products. The typical therapeutic dose of
5 mg to 10 mg is pharmacologically equivalent to 30 to 60 mg of oral codeine.
Sales and production of this drug have increased significantly in recent years,
as have diversion and illicit use. Vicodin is commonly available in tablet,
capsule, and syrup form.
In the US Vicodin is a Schedule II drug in its pure form and Schedule III
in multi-ingredient forms where Vicodin is combined with non-narcotics such
as Paracetamol, Aspirin and homatropine methylbromide. In the UK Vicodin is
listed as a Class A drug under the 1971 Misuse of Drugs Act.
Currently, about 20 tons of Vicodin products are used annually in the United
States. Vicodin in combination with acetaminophen, is a commonly abused version
of Vicodin.
Vicodin is addictive and lately it has been increasing trend to abuse it for
non-chronic pain suffering persons.
Overdose of Vicodin can be fatal.
Symptoms of Vicodin overdose are:
bluish tinge to skin
cold clammy skin
extreme sleepiness
heavy perspiration
limp muscles
nausea & vomiting
slowed heartbeat or slowed breathing
Snippets of information about Vicodin addiction and overdose are taken from
Online Vicodin, Addiction
Article