What is the average dosage / duration for Vicodin, following surgery pain?

Question

Family member had knee replacement, rehab with lots of physical therapy, etc., and insists on using vicodin; he/she wanted a Rx for a month, taking two a day. I say he/she needs it for a shorter duration; please advise.

Answer 1

Hi there! Depending on how much pain he/she is in they may need it for the allocated time. However I am a bit worried about him/her having withdrawl symptoms when they do come off this drug. They may need to ween off of it instead of coming right off and their body being shocked when it is craving the drug and is no longer receiving it anymore. It is very easy to get addicted to these types of drugs and the withdrawl symptoms are no fun. Maybe advise him/her to be very aware and careful when taking such drugs. Wishing you all the best of luck.

Answer 2

First, it depends on the concentration of hydrocodone vs. aceteminophen.  Yet, in any case, two tablets a day is well below the recommended maximum (1-2 tablets every 6 hours for the 5/500 concentration...maximum of 8 tablets a day).

It's still very normal to use Vicodin a month after knee replacement surgery, and in most cases, people are on a low dose for up to 8 weeks.

I would discuss with his/her physician if there is any complicating medical history that might make this an unacceptable med (such as history of liver disease), but in most cases, this is a reasonable request and I anticipate the surgeon will make the appropriate dose.  

Answer 3

I wouldn't be asking and taking the advice of complete strangers... ask a doctor!