Q: I have been taking vicodin (hydrocodone/apap) 500 mg for about 5 years, about 4 times a day, maximum. I am an 83 year old woman, weight 176. What risk do I have for liver damage?
This is something to get your doctors opinion on. The maximum safe dosage, as it currently stands is 4,000 mgs. but that is expected to be lowered significantly. This year the FDA informed manufacturers that the maximum dosage allowed in one pill will be 325 mgs in three years.
As to your risk of liver damage that's impossible to assess as many people take dosages similar to the one you are taking and never experience any problems. What we do know is that the FDA is going to lower the dosage to one below which you're currently taking. You might want to talk to your doctor about that. Good luck!
Hi there,
I'm a retired RN here, so not able to diagnose anything, however, can make suggestions based on clinical judgements.
I feel that at the young age of 83, it would be a good idea to ask you Dr. on your next visit to check your liver enzymes. That way you will know for sure if the apap is causing an increase in your enzymes. It is the apap or acetaminaphen that is the cause of liver damage if taken in high dosages.
Feel good, keep happy and healthy my 'sista' nurse:)
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