Vicodin and Vicodin ES are both prescription medications used to treat moderate to severe pain. However, there are some key differences between the two drugs. Vicodin ES contains a larger amount of acetaminophen, which makes it stronger than regular Vicodin. It is also available in tablet form, whereas regular Vicodin is available as a syrup. Finally, Vicodin ES is prescribed more often for chronic pain relief than regular Vicodin.
What is Vicodin?
- Vicodin is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. Vicodin contains a combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone. Hydrocodone is a narcotic pain reliever that works by changing the way the brain responds to pain. Acetaminophen is a non-narcotic pain reliever that works by reducing inflammation.
- Vicodin is available in tablet form and is typically taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain relief. Some common side effects of Vicodin include constipation, headache, drowsiness, and dizziness.
- Vicodin can be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. It is important to take Vicodin exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Vicodin can be dangerous if it is taken in high doses or for long periods of time. If you think you have taken too much Vicodin, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention immediately.
What is Vicodin ES?
Vicodin ES is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. It’s a brand-name version of the generic drug hydrocodone. Vicodin ES contains both acetaminophen and hydrocodone.
- Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. Hydrocodone is a narcotic pain reliever. Vicodin ES belongs to a class of drugs called opioids. Vicodin ES is only available in tablet form.
- Vicodin ES is taken orally, typically every four to six hours as needed for pain relief. Vicodin ES can be habit-forming and may be abused or lead to dependence.
- Vicodin ES should only be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Vicodin ES may interact with other medications, so be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, even over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.
Vicodin ES can cause serious side effects, including slowed breathing, sleepiness, and constipation. Vicodin ES can also interact with alcohol, so it’s important not to drink alcohol while taking this medication.
Difference between Vicodin and Vicodin ES
Vicodin and Vicodin ES are two prescription pain medications that contain hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Vicodin is typically used to treat moderate to severe pain, while Vicodin ES is generally reserved for treating more severe pain. Vicodin ES also contains a higher concentration of hydrocodone than Vicodin, which means that it is more likely to cause drowsiness and constipation. Both Vicodin and Vicodin ES can be addictive, so it is important to take them only as prescribed by a doctor.
Conclusion
The main difference between Vicodin and Vicodin ES is the amount of acetaminophen in each tablet. Vicodin contains 325 mg of acetaminophen, while Vicodin ES contains 500 mg of acetaminophen. If you are taking other medications that contain acetaminophen, it is important to be aware of the total amount you are taking each day. Exceeding the recommended daily limit of 4,000 mg can lead to liver damage.
