QuestionThere is something in Vicodin that I am deathly allergic to. What pain pill (s) could I safely take?
AnswerHi Gary and thanks for writing,
You must go discuss this with your family doctor as you obviously need to find out what exactly are are reacting to. Vicodin is simply a combination of Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Hydrocodone. Acetaminophen is Tylenol, and Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid derived from two of the naturally occurring opiates, Codeine and Thebaine.
You may be reacting to the Codeine which is quite common, but you need to know for any future medications (wearing an allergy bracelet is also recommended as Codeine & Morphine are common medications used in emergencies). If you are sensitive to Codeine then obviously you cannot take Tylenol #3 and must avoid Morphine and all Morphine derivatives.
Obviously if you are sensitive to Acetaminophen you need to know as it's in so many common over-the-counter cold & flu and pain medications.
First find out what exactly you are reacting to, then you can discuss safer alternatives with your doctor. The good news is that there are so many effective narcotics and analgesics available today, you will be able to find a safe medication to treat your pain.
Wishing you good health,
Margot
