Hydrocodone is an opioid medicine used to treat severe pain; it changes how the brain and nervous system respond to pain, and in some hydrocodone products it can also suppress cough. It can cause drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, constipation, and slowed breathing, and it carries risks of misuse, dependence, and overdose.

Quick Scoop

  • What it does: Lowers pain perception and pain response in the brain and nervous system.
  • Common effects: Sleepiness, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, and itching.
  • Serious risks: Respiratory depression, overdose, dependence, and withdrawal if stopped suddenly.

Important note

Hydrocodone is generally prescribed for severe pain , not mild or short- term pain, and it should be used exactly as directed because opioid medicines can be dangerous, especially when mixed with alcohol, sedatives, or other drugs that slow breathing.

When to get help

Get urgent medical help if someone taking hydrocodone has trouble breathing, extreme sleepiness, confusion, blue lips, or cannot be woken up —these can be signs of overdose or dangerous breathing suppression.