Key Takeaways
- Hydrocodone is a potent opioid pain medication with a high risk for dependence.
- There hasn’t been much research on combining weed and hydrocodone, so possible risks and benefits remain unclear.
- Cannabis may be an effective pain reliever on its own, and some evidence suggests it may be nearly as effective as opioids.
Hydrocodone, a potent opioid pain medication, is an important medication used for managing various forms of pain, from post-surgical discomfort to chronic conditions. In the United States, about 1 in 5 adults deal with long-lasting pain, demonstrating the need for effective ways to manage pain.
With so many people looking for relief from their symptoms, some are trying cannabis. But as more people consider mixing traditional medicines, like hydrocodone, with alternative treatments, like cannabis, a big question comes up: Is it safe to us hydrocodone and weed together?
What is Hydrocodone?
Hydrocodone is a potent opioid medication primarily prescribed for the management of moderate to severe pain. Its generic name, which comes from codeine, shows that it's similar to other opioids in how it's made and how it works. Within the body, hydrocodone binds to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, altering the perception of pain and producing a sense of euphoria or relaxation.
Hydrocodone is often given for pain after surgery or injury, as well as for long-term pain associated with cancer or arthritis. When taken as directed, it can help relieve pain effectively. However, like all opioids, it carries a risk of side effects and potential complications. These may include drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, nausea, vomiting, respiratory depression, and, in severe cases, addiction or overdose.
Hydrocodone is available under various brand names, including Vicodin, Norco, Lortab, Zohydro ER, and more. Even though it's effective at relieving pain, hydrocodone can be misused and cause addiction.1 Doctors need to prescribe it carefully and keep an eye on how it's used.
Combining Cannabis and Hydrocodone: What the Latest Research Says
Mixing weed and hydrocodone brings up important questions about how they might affect each other and the possible risks. Recent studies show there could be dangers when using them together.
For example, a 2022 study looked into what happens when you take hydrocodone pills and breathe in cannabis smoke at the same time. The study discovered that the levels of hydrocodone in the bloodstream didn't go up when cannabis was added; they actually went down. This unexpected finding might mean that the use of cannabis could decrease the metabolism of hydrocodone within the body. Still, this study only looked at one person's experience, so more research is needed to understand how cannabis affects hydrocodone levels in the body.2
As we learn more from research, the possibility of discovering more side effects when weed and hydrocodone are used together grows. Each of these substances on its own can make someone feel sleepy, dizzy, or have trouble thinking clearly. If these effects were to become stronger when taking cannabis and hydrocodone together, it could present increased risks for some consumers.
While there are anticipated risks, some people might find it reasonably safe to use weed and hydrocodone together in certain situations. Any decision about using them together should be discussed with a doctor. Doctors can give personalized advice based on your medical history, what other medicines you're taking, and your own situation.
When looking into the benefits of using weed and hydrocodone together, there is some interesting research and stories from people's experiences. Current studies show that the compounds in cannabis, like THC and CBD, can work in different ways to help alleviate pain. They can affect how our nerves process pain signals, reduce inflammation and naturally change how our bodies respond to pain.
Pre-clinical studies examine how cannabinoids might work in cell and animal studies. These studies have shown that cannabinoids could make opioid painkillers work better. For example, some research suggests that certain compounds in cannabis can help opioids, like morphine, work more effectively in easing pain caused by inflammation. This could mean that the natural activity of cannabinoids in our bodies is important for how opioids work. Also, reviews of multiple studies have found strong evidence that when opioids and cannabinoids are used together, they can make pain relief even stronger.3
Likewise, research is beginning to shine more light on the role of terpenes in pain relief, and how they may interact with medications like hydrocodone, tramadol, or over the counter options like ibuprofen.
Personal stories found throughout the internet also hint at how using weed and hydrocodone together might help alleviate pain. Some individuals have said they feel better pain relief and just generally feel better when they use both simultaneously. Early clinical information suggests that cannabis could help alongside opioids to manage long-term pain.
Even though these findings are hopeful, it's important to be careful about using weed and hydrocodone together. There's a chance that they could make each other's side effects worse, and everyone reacts differently to the mix. More research is needed, and doctors should keep a close eye on anyone who tries this combo.
Are You Considering Using Cannabis and Hydrocodone?
Combining cannabis with any substance or medication carries its own risks. Cannabis research is still in its earliest stages, and there is a lot that researchers still don't know. That leaves the door open for unexpected interactions with other substances. If you are considering combining cannabis with any other substance or medication, speak to your doctor for proper medical guidance.
Likewise, stopping the use of a prescribed medication can lead to unintended consequences. Many medications take time to build up in the body. Stopping suddenly can cause unpleasant and potentially serious or even fatal side effects. If you'd like to stop using or replace a medication, you need to follow the guidance of your medical provider to make any approved adjustments safely.
References
- Cofano S, Yellon R. Hydrocodone. In: StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing; 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537288/ ↩︎
- Bindler RJ, Watson CJW, Lyons AJ, et al. Drug-Drug Interaction Between Orally Administered Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen and Inhalation of Cannabis Smoke: A Case Report. Hosp Pharm. 2022;57(4):518-525. doi:10.1177/00185787211061374 ↩︎
- MacCallum CA, Eadie L, Barr AM, Boivin M, Lu S. Practical Strategies Using Medical Cannabis to Reduce Harms Associated With Long Term Opioid Use in Chronic Pain. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2021;12. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.633168 ↩︎
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
