Hydrocodone Bitartrate And Ibuprofen
Pronunciation: (hye-droe-KOE-done / eye-byoo-PROE-fen).
- Generic name
- hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen
- Brand names
- Not commercially available, Hydroprofen, Hydrofen, Ibuco, Vicoprofen
- Drug class
- Opioid analgesic and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) combination
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country:
Australia: · Full directory
What hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen works
Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid agonist that binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system, inhibiting ascending pain pathways and altering the perception and response to pain. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins involved in inflammation, pain, and fever. (1)
What hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen is used for
Moderate to severe acute pain
Moderate to severe acute pain (2)
Post-surgical pain
Post-surgical pain (2)
Pain associated with musculoskeletal injuries
Pain associated with musculoskeletal injuries (2)
Pain from dental procedures
Pain from dental procedures (2)
Before taking hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen
Do not take / not appropriate for
- hypersensitivity to hydrocodone, ibuprofen, other opioids, or NSAIDs. (Contraindication) (2)
- active peptic ulcer disease. (Contraindication) (2)
- recent gastrointestinal bleeding. (Contraindication) (2)
- severe respiratory depression. (Contraindication) (2)
- acute or severe bronchial asthma. (Contraindication) (2)
- use with MAO inhibitors. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen
- General Instructions: Take Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than directed.. Adult Dosing: The usual adult dose is one tablet (containing 7.5 mg hydrocodone and 200 mg ibuprofen) every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. Do not exceed 5 tablets in a 24-hour period.. Pediatric Dosing: Safety and efficacy have not been established in children under 16 years of age. Use in pediatric patients is not recommended.. Administration: Take with a full glass of water. May be taken with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.. When To Stop: This medicine is generally used only as long as needed for acute pain, as directed by your healthcare provider. If you have used it for more than a few days, do not stop abruptly without consulting your doctor.. Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, slow or shallow breathing, fainting, or coma. Overdose can be life-threatening due to respiratory depression and organ damage. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Nausea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Dizziness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Drowsiness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Constipation
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Stomach pain
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Indigestion
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Gastrointestinal bleeding
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Respiratory depression
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Slow, shallow, or difficult breathing; extreme drowsiness or confusion — seek emergency care
(2)Black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, or severe stomach pain — possible GI bleeding
(1)Chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, or slurred speech — possible heart attack or stroke
(2)Signs of liver problems: yellowing of the skin/eyes, dark urine, or unusual fatigue
(2)Serious warnings
BOXED WARNING (FDA), as required for all hydrocodone-containing opioid analgesics — serious
Symptoms: BOXED WARNING (FDA), as required for all hydrocodone-containing opioid analgesics: this medicine exposes users to the risks of opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death — a risk assessment is done before prescribing and monitoring continues throughout treatment. Serious, life-threatening, or fatal breathing problems (respiratory depression) can occur, especially when starting treatment or after a dose increase. Accidental ingestion of even one dose, especially by a child, can be fatal — keep this medicine locked away from children and anyone for whom it was not prescribed. Combining this medicine with benzodiazepines, alcohol, or other central-nervous-system depressants can cause profound sedation, breathing problems, coma, and death. Prolonged use during pregnancy can cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome in the newborn, which can be life-threatening if not recognized and treated by the baby's clinical team.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death — serious
Symptoms: Risk of addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death. Serious, potentially fatal respiratory depression may occur. NSAIDs may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke. NSAIDs can cause serious gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and perforation. Use during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, may harm the unborn baby.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindications include hypersensitivity to hydrocodone, ibuprofen, other opioids, or NSAIDs; active peptic ulcer disease; recent gastrointestinal bleeding; severe respiratory depression; acute or severe bronchial asthma; and use with MAO inhibitors. Precautions include use in elderly, patients with renal or hepatic impairment, cardiovascular disease, history of substance abuse, and those at risk for GI bleeding.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
The FDA label specifies the asthma-related contraindication more precisely — serious
Symptoms: The FDA label specifies the asthma-related contraindication more precisely: a history of asthma, hives, or an allergic-type reaction after taking aspirin or another NSAID (rather than asthma in general). It also specifically contraindicates use for perioperative pain right around coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, because of the NSAID component's cardiovascular risk. Upper gastrointestinal ulcers, bleeding, or perforation caused by the NSAID component occur in roughly 1% of patients treated for 3-6 months and can happen without warning symptoms.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen may interact with other medications, including other opioids, sedatives, benzodiazepines, antidepressants, antihistamines, anticoagulants, and other NSAIDs. Combining with alcohol or other CNS depressants increases the risk of dangerous side effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking. | (1) |
| ACE inhibitors | The NSAID component may reduce their blood-pressure-lowering effect, per FDA labeling. | (2) |
| Lithium | The NSAID component can raise lithium blood levels, per FDA labeling; your prescriber may need to monitor lithium levels more closely. | (2) |
| CYP2D6/CYP3A4-affecting drugs | Hydrocodone is metabolized by the CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 liver enzymes; drugs that strongly inhibit or induce these enzymes can raise or lower hydrocodone's effect and are reviewed by your prescriber. | (2) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Avoid use late in pregnancy: the ibuprofen (NSAID) component can cause premature closure of a fetal blood vessel (the ductus arteriosus) if used in the third trimester. Prolonged opioid use in pregnancy can also cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome in the newborn, which the baby's clinical team monitors for and treats if it occurs. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk, as determined by your prescriber. (2)
Breastfeeding
The FDA label advises that, because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a nursing infant, a decision should be made between the treating clinician and the mother whether to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue the medicine, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. (2)
Children
Frequency: Not applicable. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable. Max Single Dose: Not applicable. Age Restrictions: Safety not established in children (2)
Renal_impairment
Renal impairment: not recommended in advanced renal disease; if used, close monitoring is required. Hepatic impairment: mild/borderline liver enzyme elevations occur in up to 15% of patients on the NSAID component; your clinician will determine whether to your clinician will determine whether to discontinue if significant liver dysfunction develops. Both require clinician oversight. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
Renal impairment: not recommended in advanced renal disease; if used, close monitoring is required. Hepatic impairment: mild/borderline liver enzyme elevations occur in up to 15% of patients on the NSAID component; your clinician will determine whether to your clinician will determine whether to discontinue if significant liver dysfunction develops. Both require clinician oversight. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
Store at controlled room temperature, 25°C (77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59-86°F), in a tight, light-resistant container, away from moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets — accidental ingestion of even one tablet can be fatal to a child.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Moderate to severe acute pain
Dose summary: 1 tablet (hydrocodone 7.5 mg/ibuprofen 200 mg) every 4-6 hours as needed for pain, maximum 5 tablets (37.5 mg hydrocodone/1000 mg ibuprofen) in 24 hours; generally used short-term (under 10 days). -- CORRECTS an internal inconsistency in the clinician database, whose 'Adult dosing' field said 5 mg hydrocodone while its own 'Administration' field said 7.5 mg; FDA labeling for the marketed strength (Vicoprofen and its generics) confirms 7.5 mg/200 mg.
Renal context: Advanced renal disease: treatment is not recommended; if used, close monitoring is required. Hepatic: borderline liver enzyme elevations occur in up to 15% of patients; your clinician will determine whether to discontinue if significant liver dysfunction develops. (1) (2)
Frequently asked questions
What is Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen used for?
It is used for the short-term management of moderate to severe pain when other treatments are not effective.
How does Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen work?
Hydrocodone is an opioid that blocks pain signals in the brain, while ibuprofen reduces inflammation and swelling at the site of pain.
Is Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen addictive?
Yes, hydrocodone is an opioid and can be habit-forming. Use only as prescribed and never share with others.
Can I take Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen with other painkillers?
Do not take with other opioids or NSAIDs unless specifically directed by your doctor, as this increases the risk of side effects.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for your next dose. Never double up doses.
What are the signs of overdose?
Symptoms include extreme drowsiness, slow or shallow breathing, fainting, or coma. Seek emergency help immediately.
Is Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen safe during pregnancy?
It is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester: the ibuprofen component can cause premature closure of a fetal blood vessel, and prolonged opioid use can cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome in the newborn. Consult your doctor.
What happens if I take too much Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen?
Taking too much Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen can lead to serious side effects such as severe drowsiness, slowed breathing, pinpoint pupils, extreme weakness, and even loss of consciousness. Ibuprofen overdose can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and kidney problems. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate emergency medical attention.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen?
No, it is strongly advised to avoid alcohol while taking Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen. Alcohol can significantly increase the sedative effects of hydrocodone, leading to severe drowsiness, dizziness, and potentially dangerous respiratory depression. It also increases the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding associated with ibuprofen.
What is the mechanism of action of hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen?
Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid agonist that binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system, inhibiting ascending pain pathways and altering the perception and response to pain. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins involved in inflammation, pain, and fever. (1)
What is the generic name of Hydrocodone Bitartrate And Ibuprofen?
The generic name is hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen. It is sold under brand names including Not commercially available, Hydroprofen, Hydrofen, Ibuco, Vicoprofen.
What class of drug is hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen?
Hydrocodone Bitartrate And Ibuprofen is classed as: Opioid analgesic and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) combination.
References
- Hydrocodone/Ibuprofen medicine record (clinician authored)MedGuideGlobal · Global · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 1
- VICOPROFEN (hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen) tablets — full prescribing informationU.S. Food and Drug Administration · United States · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 2
- HYDROCODONE BITARTRATE AND IBUPROFEN TABLET, FILM COATED [AUROLIFE PHARMA, LLC] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Hydrocodone Combination Products — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
- Hydrocodone Bitartrate and Ibuprofen — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA ANDA204575)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 5
- hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 214627)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 6
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient hydrocodone bitartrate and ibuprofen names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.