What is Lorcet?

Lorcet is a prescription opioid pain medication that contains a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen. 

Hydrocodone is an opioid agonist that works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain. It belongs to the drug class of narcotic analgesics and is considered a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence.

Acetaminophen is a type of pain reliever and fever reducer that does not belong to the opioid category. It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, substances in the body that induce fever and sensitize nerve endings to pain. 

You can buy Lorcet online with same-day delivery at our reputed online pharmacy. By combining hydrocodone and acetaminophen into a single pill, Lorcet aims to provide effective pain relief by utilizing two different mechanisms. The hydrocodone component treats moderate to severe pain by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, while the acetaminophen component enhances the effects by acting through a different pathway.

Lorcet is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), indicating it has a high potential for abuse that may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. As such, it is only available by prescription and requires careful oversight by medical professionals.

Uses of Lorcet

Lorcet is typically used for the management and treatment of moderate to severe pain when over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen are not sufficient. It is prescribed to alleviate pain stemming from conditions like:

• Back pain
• Arthritis 
• Injuries
• Post-surgical pain
• Cancer 
• Dental pain
• Migraines

Lorcet Dosage

The typical dosage for adults taking Lorcet for pain is 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed. The maximum daily dose is 8 tablets in 24 hours. 

For children ages 16 and older, the starting dose is typically 1 tablet every 6 to 8 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 4 tablets per day. Lorcet should not be given to children under 16 years old.

Lorcet tablets come in different strengths, including 5 mg hydrocodone with 325 mg acetaminophen and 10 mg hydrocodone with 650 mg acetaminophen. Patients are usually started on the lowest strength necessary to control their pain.

It’s important not to exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen per day from all sources when taking Lorcet to avoid liver damage. The prescribing doctor will take into account all medications the patient is taking to ensure they stay below this limit.

Side Effects of Lorcet

Potential common side effects of Lorcet include:

Nausea and vomiting – Lorcet can cause stomach upset. Consuming it alongside a meal might aid in minimizing feelings of nausea.

Drowsiness and dizziness – Lorcet can cause sleepiness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating or performing tasks that require alertness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery when taking Lorcet.

Constipation – Opioids like hydrocodone can slow gastrointestinal movement leading to constipation. Drink plenty of fluids, eat a high fiber diet, and talk to your doctor about using a stool softener or laxative if needed. 

Itching – Some people report itching as a side effect of opioids like Lorcet. Antihistamines may help relieve itching. Let your doctor know if itching is severe.

Some potential serious side effects to be aware of include:

Respiratory depression – High doses of opioids like hydrocodone can slow or stop breathing, which can lead to coma or death. Seek emergency help immediately if you have slow, shallow breathing.

Allergic reaction – Some people may have a serious allergic reaction to Lorcet. Seek medical attention right away if you experience swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing after taking Lorcet.

Addiction – Lorcet has a high potential for addiction, even when taken as prescribed. Taking more than prescribed or for longer than directed can increase this risk.

Liver damage – Long-term use of Lorcet may cause liver damage. Your doctor should monitor your liver function with blood tests while you are taking this medication.

Warnings Associated With Lorcet

Be very careful when taking Lorcet or other prescription opioid painkillers. These medications have a high potential for abuse, addiction, overdose, and dangerous interactions with alcohol and other drugs.

Addiction – Lorcet contains hydrocodone, an opioid drug that can be highly addictive. With regular use over an extended time, your body can become dependent on Lorcet and you may experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it suddenly. Psychological dependence can also occur.

Alcohol Interactions – Never drink alcohol while taking Lorcet. Both Lorcet and alcohol are central nervous system depressants, so their effects are intensified when combined. This slows heart rate, breathing, and brain function, which can lead to coma and death.  

Other Precautions – Only take Lorcet exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Never share your pills with others who do not have a prescription. Use the lowest dose possible for the shortest time needed for pain management. Carefully follow all dosage directions to avoid dangerous side effects. Tell your doctor about any medical issues you have and all other medicines you take.  

Interactions of Lorcet

Lorcet contains two active ingredients – hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Both of these can interact with other substances.

Hydrocodone Interactions

Hydrocodone is an opioid drug, and interacts with:

Alcohol – Consuming alcohol while taking hydrocodone can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and risk of overdose. Avoid alcohol when taking Lorcet.

Other Opioids – Taking Lorcet with other opioid medications like codeine, morphine, or oxycodone increases the risk of dangerous side effects. 

CNS Depressants – Sedatives like Xanax, Valium, or Ambien can enhance the sedative effects of hydrocodone, leading to excessive sleepiness and slowed breathing.

Muscle Relaxants – Muscle relaxers like Flexeril or Soma combined with Lorcet also increase sedation.

Acetaminophen Interactions

Acetaminophen can interact with:

Warfarin – Acetaminophen may increase warfarin thinning of the blood, increasing bleeding risk.

Certain Antidepressants – SSRIs like Zoloft and SNRIs like Effexor may increase the risk of bleeding when combined with acetaminophen.