You may be wondering how much Lortab you should take and what forms it comes in. Learn more about Lortab dosages and the dangers of this drug.
Originally, Lortab was available both as oral tablets and as an oral liquid, but currently, it is only supplied in the liquid, elixir form. Lortab elixir is red and has a fruit punch flavor. A similar generic solution is also available, with slightly different amounts of hydrocodone and acetaminophen. There are several generic and brand name tablet forms of the hydrocodone/acetaminophen combination drug as well.
Although the production of Lortab tablets discontinued, some people may want to know what they look like and how much hydrocodone they contained. Lortab tablets contained anywhere from 2.5 to 10 milligrams of hydrocodone per tablet and were usually oblong pills which could be yellow, pink or white with colored specks.
Article at a Glance
- Lortab is currently only available as a liquid, called Lortab elixir
- Lortab elixir contains hydrocodone, acetaminophen, and alcohol
- Lortab pills are no longer manufactured
- Other brand names and generic versions of hydrocodone/acetaminophen are still available as pills
- Since Lortab contains an opioid, adverse effects can occur, including physical dependence, slowed breathing, drowsiness, confusion, and constipation
- The acetaminophen component of Lortab can cause liver damage with high doses
- Lortab can cause addiction to develop if not carefully managed.
Lortab Strength
Since Lortab is now only available in a liquid formulation, pill forms of Lortab are unavailable. Brand name Lortab contains 10 milligrams of hydrocodone and 300 milligrams of acetaminophen in every 15 milliliters of liquid.
The generic form of liquid hydrocodone/acetaminophen contains 7.5 milligrams of hydrocodone and 325 milligrams of acetaminophen in every 15 milliliters, so the amounts are a little different from brand name Lortab.
For an adult, the standard dosage of Lortab elixir is about 11.25 milliliters every four to six hours, with a maximum of six doses per day. This maximum daily dose provides 45 milligrams of hydrocodone and 1800 milligrams of acetaminophen per day.
It is very important to only take the smallest amount of Lortab needed. Both the hydrocodone and acetaminophen components of Lortab are associated with serious risks, especially with large doses, so using the least amount of medication for the shortest amount of time is recommended.
Hydrocodone, like other opioids, is associated with many side effects, including:
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Physical dependence
- Constipation
- Slowed breathing
- Hydrocodone overdose
Acetaminophen, especially in large doses, is associated with liver damage and liver failure, which can be very serious and even fatal.
One other component of Lortab elixir is alcohol, which can also damage the liver with high doses. The alcohol component of Lortab makes up 7% of the drug.
Other Products Containing Combination Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen
Several brand name products contain the same combination of drugs as Lortab does, although the amounts of hydrocodone and acetaminophen vary. Some of these brand name products are Vicodin, Norco, and Lorcet.
If you or a loved one have an opioid addiction, consider reaching out for help. Contact The Recovery Village to speak to a representative about how personalized addiction treatment programs can treat substance use disorders. Take the first step toward a healthier future by calling today.
Dailymed. “Lortab (syrup).” November 2018. Accessed April 21, 2019.
Dailymed. “Hydrocodone Bitartrate and Acetaminophen (solution).” July 2018. Accessed April 21, 2019.
Dailymed. “Norco (tablet).” October 2018. Accessed April 21, 2019.
Dailymed. “Vicodin (tablet).” December 2018. Accessed April 21, 2019.
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