Q: Will taking Vicodin (for osteoarthritis and osteoporosis) affect my dosage of BP medication and/or give me stomach problems?
A: Vicodin is a habit forming pain reliever containing hydrocodone (similar to codeine) and acetaminophen (generic Tylenol). It is classified as a narcotic. With repeated use, tolerance develops to narcotics and more drug is required to obtain the same pain relief. Toxic effects, including blood pressure changes, occur with higher dosages and with withdrawal.