Lortab is a brand name for a drug that combines hydrocodone, an opioid, with acetaminophen (Tylenol), similar in its chemical makeup to Vicodin, to create an effective pain-killing drug that can be prone to causing addiction. (“Schedule III” narcotic). Lortab is manufactured by UCB Pharmaceuticals.

Alternative  & street names:

Because Lortab has similar effects of other hydrocodone and acetaminophen cocktail drugs like Norco and Vicodin, Lortab’s street names might be used interchangeably with the street names of similar drugs, such as: Tabs, Norco, Vikes and Viko.

How is Lortab taken?

Lortab is consumed orally by tablet, capsule or syrup

Effects of Lortab consumption

Lortab is an effective pain reliever available by prescription only. Hydrocodone is about six times as powerful as morphine, and the combination with acetaminophen has a synergistic effect, providing a greater amount of pain relief than the same amount of hydrocodone alone.

Impact on the mind/body and health risks

Effects of Lortab are similar to those of morphine, including the risks of slowing the respiratory and circulatory systems, which could result in death.

Side effects of Lortab can include nausea, dizziness, seizures, allergic reactions, paranoia and an altered mental state. Rarer side-effects could include allergic reaction, clammy skin, hallucinations, severe weakness, jaundice, constipation, hot flashes, tinnitus, loss of hearing, altered sex drive and decreased urination.

Signs of abuse of this substance

Like any prescription pill, signs of abuse of Lortab includes “doctor shopping,” fabricated stories of losing one’s prescription, or claiming allergies to all drugs but Lortab.

Families and friends might witness an addict lie about consumption, steal to support one’s habit, and/or stray away from long-time friends for a new set of friends that enable one’s addiction.

Common treatment options

Treatment for addiction to Lortab should take place in an inpatient facility in order to guard against more complicated medical problems associated with withdrawal. 

Lortab withdrawal/detox symptoms

Like any opium-based addiction, withdrawal from Lortab is an unpleasant process that might include vomiting, diarrhea, goose bumps, and cold sweats, lasting days or weeks, depending on the level of use.