Hydrocodone in COPD

Dear Patient,

Thank you for your consult at DoctorSpring.com.

Regarding the dosage, i would like to know the basic disease that warrants hydrocodone + any co morbidities like kidney disease and liver disease.

I would ideally start with the same dose to avoid respiratory depression, stepping up gradually to the dose of 10 mg after a week , later on adding it twice a day after a week. however all said and done, it will depend on the disease, comorbidities and use of opiods prior.

Kindly provide a comprehensive history so that we may be able to help you out.
Regards
Dr. Jacob George P
MD, FCCP

Patient of COPD

Dear Patient,

Thank you for your consult at DoctorSpring.com.

Regarding the dosage, i would like to know the basic disease that warrants hydrocodone + any co morbidities like kidney disease and liver disease.

I would ideally start with the same dose to avoid respiratory depression, stepping up gradually to the dose of 10 mg after a week , later on adding it twice a day after a week. however all said and done, it will depend on the disease, comorbidities and use of opiods prior.

Kindly provide a comprehensive history so that we may be able to help you out.
Regards
Dr. Jacob George P
MD, FCCP

1999 stroke on left side of brain so his right side is paralyzed.

Also, he had Tuberculosis as a child. He has barrel chest and very small in stature. He has history of spine surgeries. He had one in 1960ish. He was paralyzed and could not move his legs, but I think they did surgery to help and he was fine after that.

Then in 1985/1986 he had two more surgeries for spine.

My dad's spine has been an issue his entire life.

He also had a seizure 1 year ago.

I don't want him to take medication that will hurt him. I think my mom just gives it to him so he sleeps and not bother her.

My dad developed severe kidney shut down 2 years ago. think he was being oversubscribed depressants.

I don't think it is healthy for him to take the medicine.

Hello,
For a patient with COPD, i would advice extreme caution for hydroccodone. They are very much prone for respiratory depression. And i would not escalate the dose for next 2 - 3 weeks because of the same fear.

Hope this helps, please feel free to discuss further.
Regards
Dr. Jacob George

Hello,

Yes there are inherent risks for this medication. This is a combination pain medication. But it is equally important that his pain is adequately controlled.

So if it is a prescription medication by your Doctor it is Okay. This medication can cause respiratory depression in COPD. So keep a tract on this breathing. Also if there any swelling of face or legs you should alert your Doctor as acetaminophen can cause a renal failure.

So bottom line is that , this medication can be used, dosage is ok. But you need to be cautious.

Hope this helps
Feel free to ask followup questions.
Thank you