How long does hydrocodone (vicodin) stay in you system?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

Hydrocodone & Acetaminophen Vicodin
Mechanism of Action Hydrocodone is a semisynthetic narcotic analgesic and antitussive with multiple actions qualitatively similar to those of codeine. Same as other narcotic analgesics (see Oxycodone & Aspirin above).
Therapeutic Use Treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain.
Absorption Readily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract but is significantly metabolized by the liver before reaching the systemic circulation.
Metabolism Metabolized in the liver by P-450 enzymes. May also undergo glucuronic conjugation.

Half-life 4 hours.

What is "half life"?

Simplistically, it the amount of time that it takes for half of a substance to break down. For example, if something has a half life of 10 days, then half the original amount will remain after 10 days. Then, 10 days later, half of that amount will remain ... and so on. The amount remaining will continually grow smaller.

Average Daily Dose (adult) One or two tablets every four to six hours as needed for pain.
Adverse Effects May cause dependence due to narcotic ingredient. Lightheadedness, dizziness, sedation, nausea and vomiting.
Drug Interaction Patients receiving other narcotic analgesics, antihistamines, antipsychotics, antianxiety agents or other CNS depressants (including alcohol) concomitantly with Vicodin tablets may exhibit an additive CNS depression.

Contraindication Contraindicated during lactation. Should not be administered to patients who have previously exhibited hypersensitivity to hydrocodone or acetaminophen.

Source(s):

http://www.birf.info/home/bi-tools/qlink…

Answer 2

3 days if used one time, but if used consistently about a week