The combination of hydrocodone and acetampinophen is used commonly to alleviate pain presents side effects similar to other habit forming medications and has the potential for inciting physiologic dependence and tolerance with repeated use.
Additional symptoms related to overdose include respiratory depression, hypotension and coma.
Deafness resulting from narcotic overuse is a rare occurrence. In the past, there have been no reports of progressive hearing loss occurring as a result of overdosing hydrocodone or acetaminophen. However, Los Angeles ear, nose, and throat specialists have found that when both agents are combined and overused, hearing loss can occur and can progress to total hearing loss. The primary objective of this retrospective study was to describe rapid and progressive hearing loss in patients taking Vicodin and to achieve successful rehabilitation with cochlear implantation. The researchers recruited nine women and three men with an average age of 42 years with a range of 32 to 54 years.