Hydrocodone is considered an opioid drug that is used to treat medium to drastic pains in persons. It comes under the brand names, Norco and Vicodin, and is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This medication is available in various forms, such as, tablets, capsules, or oral consumptions like syrup.
To use this drug safely and efficiently, both patients and medical professionals need to be informed about how long it takes to have an effect. It takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, to develop noticeable effects after ingesting hydrocodone. This also depends on the medication on the individual’s metabolism health, as well as food being present in the intestines.
Differences of formulation: The hydrocodone is present in multiple formulations; extended-release and immediate-release forms. Extended-release is a kind of formulation that releases the drug moderately for a long period and may start to relieve pain in one hour, but it also offers long-lasting relief. In terms of the formulation of immediate-release, it provides rapid relief in 30 to 60 minutes.
Absorption and Metabolism: The metabolism of an individual might affect the speed of hydrocodone absorption into the circulatory system. When this drug is digested in the body, it can also affect the person’s liver function, age and overall well-being. It also affects absorption when the presence of food is found in the stomach. Consuming this drug with a meal may barely decrease the absorption and result in more time before the effects are felt. In addition, taking the drug in an empty stomach may lead to more rapid absorption and onset.
Individual Variability: Each individual’s body responses to medicines in different ways, which include opioid drugs like hydrocodone. Some people may begin to experience the effects of the drug in 30 to 40 minutes. Whereas, few may start to feel quickly or gradually because of their health conditions.