Liquid Hydrocodone Medication for Cough
The most commonly used liquid hydrocodone medication for cough is hydrocodone bitartrate syrup, often formulated in combination with other agents such as chlorpheniramine or homatropine, though specific brand names vary by availability and region. 1
Understanding Hydrocodone Formulations for Cough
Hydrocodone is available as a liquid antitussive agent, typically in syrup form, and has been extensively studied and used for cough suppression. 1 The medication works as a centrally-acting opioid antitussive with demonstrated effectiveness and a good safety profile. 1
Key Clinical Context
Hydrocodone is one of the most widely used opioid antitussives alongside codeine and dihydrocodeine for managing refractory cough. 1
The liquid formulation allows for flexible dosing, which is particularly important given that effective doses vary significantly between patients (ranging from 5-30 mg/day in clinical studies). 1, 2
Hydrocodone bitartrate is described as "an opioid analgesic and antitussive" in its FDA labeling, confirming its dual indication. 3
Typical Dosing for Cough Management
Initial dosing typically starts at 5 mg twice daily for cough suppression in adults. 1, 2
Dose titration may be required, with studies showing median effective doses of 10 mg/day (range 5-30 mg/day) for optimal cough control. 1, 2
Most patients experience improvement within one day of initiating therapy at appropriate doses. 2
Critical Safety Considerations
Hydrocodone-containing cough medications are now contraindicated in patients under 18 years of age following FDA review due to unfavorable benefit-risk profile in pediatric populations. 4
Serious risks include respiratory depression, addiction potential, abuse, and misuse even when taken as prescribed. 3
The medication should not be used in patients with severe asthma, breathing problems, or bowel obstruction. 3
Hydrocodone is classified as Schedule II (as of 2014), reflecting its high abuse potential. 5
Important Clinical Caveats
Combination products exist (such as hydrocodone/chlorpheniramine), but the benefit-risk profile for pediatric use has been deemed unfavorable. 4
Hydrocodone is most commonly prescribed in tablet form combined with acetaminophen (e.g., 5mg/325mg, 7.5mg/325mg, 10mg/325mg), though liquid formulations specifically for cough are available. 3
When prescribing for cough, ensure the indication is appropriate - hydrocodone has the most evidence in cancer-related cough and other refractory chronic cough conditions. 1