Is my long-term use of Vicodin and Advil for arthritis pain safe?
- Q: I take 1 vicodin daily to manage my arthritis during the day and 2 advil at night so I can sleep. Will this do me any harm?
- A: Vicodin, a prescription medication, is a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Hydrocodone is in a drug class called opiate or narcotic analgesics (pain relievers). Hydrocodone works to relieve pain by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. Acetaminophen is in a drug class called analgesics. Acetaminophen is not as potent a pain reliever as hydrocodone. Acetaminophen works by changing the way the body senses pain. Vicodin is used for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. Advil is an over-the-counter medication containing ibuprofen. Advil is in a drug class called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Advil is used for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains from headache, toothache, backache, menstrual cramps, the common cold, muscle aches, and minor pain from arthritis. Advil is also used to temporarily lessen fever. Advil works by stopping the body from making a certain compound that causes pain, inflammation, and fever. The safety of taking Vicodin and/or Advil can depend on many patient-specific characteristics. For more specific information, consult with your doctor for guidance based on your health status and current medications, particularly before taking any action. Derek Dore, PharmD
If this answer isn't what you were looking for, then ask a question of your own:
Search Questions and Answers
To view more questions and answers on a variety of health issues, enter a keyword to search or click on a featured topic.
Recent Drug Ratings
- Insulin Glargine for Diabetes mellitus
- Gildess FE 1.5/0.03 for Contraception
- Rolaids Extra Strength for Pyrosis (heartburn)
- Binosto for Osteoporosis
- Exemestane for Breast Cancer
- Clozapine for Bipolar Disorder
- Osphena for Dyspareunia
- Tecfidera for Multiple Sclerosis
- Sanctura XR for Urinary Incontinence
- V-Gan-25 for Allergic Reaction