Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
HYCODAN tablets and oral solution contain hydrocodone, an opioid agonist; and homatropine, a muscarinic antagonist.
Each tablet or spoonful (5 mL) of HYCODAN contains 5 mg of hydrocodone bitartrate, USP and 1.5 mg of homatropine methylbromide, USP, for oral administration.
HYCODAN tablets also contain: calcium phosphate dibasic, colloidal silicon dioxide, lactose, magnesium stearate, pregelatinized starch and stearic acid.
HYCODAN oral solution also contains: anhydrous citric acid, FD&C Red 40, methylparaben, natural and artificial cherry flavor, propylparaben, purified water, sorbitol solution, sodium citrate dihydrate and sucrose.
The pharmacokinetics of HYCODAN has not been characterized in patients with hepatic impairment. Patients with severe hepatic impairment may have higher plasma concentrations than those with normal hepatic function [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Therefore, HYCODAN should be used with caution in patients with severe impairment of hepatic function, and patients should be monitored closely for respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension.
Because opioid agonists may increase biliary tract pressure, with resultant increase in plasma amylase or lipase levels, determination of these enzyme levels may be unreliable for 24 hours after administration of a dose of HYCODAN.
The concomitant use of HYCODAN and CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampin, carbamazepine, or phenytoin, can decrease the plasma concentration of hydrocodone [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ], resulting in decreased efficacy or onset of a withdrawal syndrome in patients who have developed physical dependence to hydrocodone [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. After stopping a CYP3A4 inducer, as the effects of the inducer decline, the hydrocodone plasma concentration will increase [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], which could increase or prolong both the therapeutic effects and adverse reactions, and may cause serious respiratory depression.
Avoid the use of HYCODAN in patients who are taking CYP3A4 inducers. If concomitant use of a CYP3A4 inducer is necessary, follow the patient for reduced efficacy.
Psychological dependence, physical dependence, and tolerance may develop upon repeated administration of opioids; therefore, HYCODAN should be prescribed and administered for the shortest duration that is consistent with individual patient treatment goals and patients should be reevaluated prior to refills [see Dosage and Administration (2.3), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
Physical dependence, the condition in which continued administration of the drug is required to prevent the appearance of a withdrawal syndrome, assumes clinically significant proportions only after several weeks of continued oral opioid use, although some mild degree of physical dependence may develop after a few days of opioid therapy.
If HYCODAN is abruptly discontinued in a physically-dependent patient, a withdrawal syndrome may occur. Withdrawal also may be precipitated through the administration of drugs with opioid antagonist activity (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene), mixed agonist/antagonist analgesics (e.g., pentazocine, butorphanol, nalbuphine), or partial agonists (e.g., buprenorphine). Some or all of the following can characterize this syndrome: restlessness, lacrimation, rhinorrhea, yawning, perspiration, chills, myalgia, and mydriasis. Other signs and symptoms also may develop, including irritability, anxiety, backache, joint pain, weakness, abdominal cramps, insomnia, nausea, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, or increased blood pressure, respiratory rate, or heart rate.
Infants born to mothers physically dependent on opioids will also be physically dependent and may exhibit respiratory difficulties and withdrawal signs [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
Hydrocodone, one of the active ingredients in HYCODAN, may produce marked drowsiness and impair the mental and/or physical abilities required for the performance of potentially hazardous tasks such as driving a car or operating machinery. Advise patients to avoid engaging in hazardous tasks requiring mental alertness and motor coordination after ingestion of HYCODAN. Avoid concurrent use of HYCODAN with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants because additional impairment of central nervous system performance may occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
Due to additive pharmacologic effect, the concomitant use of benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants, including alcohol, other sedatives/hypnotics, anxiolytics, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, general anesthetics, antipsychotics, and other opioids, can increase the risk of hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death. Avoid the use of HYCODAN in patients who are taking benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)], and instruct patients to avoid consumption of alcohol while on HYCODAN [see Drug Interactions (7.1), Patient Counseling Information (17)].
The pharmacokinetics of HYCODAN has not been characterized in patients with renal impairment. Patients with renal impairment may have higher plasma concentrations than those with normal function [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. HYCODAN should be used with caution in patients with severe impairment of renal function, and patients should be monitored closely for respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension.
HYCODAN is contraindicated in pediatric patients younger than 6 years of age because of life-threatening respiratory depression and death have occurred in pediatric patients who received hydrocodone [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
The safety and effectiveness of HYCODAN have not been established in patients younger than 18 years of age. HYCODAN is not recommended for use in patients younger than 18 years of age because the benefits of symptomatic treatment of cough associated with allergies or the common cold do not outweigh the risks for use of hydrocodone in these patients [see Indications (1), Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
The concomitant use of opioids with other drugs that affect the serotonergic neurotransmitter system has resulted in serotonin syndrome. If concomitant use is warranted, carefully observe the patient, particularly during treatment initiation. Discontinue HYCODAN if serotonin syndrome is suspected.
The concomitant use of anticholinergic drugs with HYCODAN may increase risk of urinary retention and/or severe constipation, which may lead to paralytic ileus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]. Monitor patients for signs of urinary retention or reduced gastric motility when HYCODAN is used concomitantly with anticholinergic drugs.
The concomitant use of HYCODAN and CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), azole-antifungal agents (e.g., ketoconazole), or protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir), can increase the plasma concentration of hydrocodone, resulting in increased or prolonged opioid effects. These effects could be more pronounced with concomitant use of HYCODAN and CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors, particularly when an inhibitor is added after a stable dose of HYCODAN is achieved [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)]. After stopping a CYP3A4 inhibitor, as the effects of the inhibitor decline, the hydrocodone plasma concentration will decrease [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], resulting in decreased opioid efficacy or a withdrawal syndrome in patients who had developed physical dependence to hydrocodone.
Avoid the use of HYCODAN while taking a CYP3A4 or CYP2D6 inhibitor. If concomitant use is necessary, monitor patients for respiratory depression and sedation at frequent intervals.
HYCODAN is contraindicated for:
Avoid the use of HYCODAN in patients with head injury, intracranial lesions, or a pre-existing increase in intracranial pressure. In patients who may be susceptible to the intracranial effects of CO2 retention (e.g., those with evidence of increased intracranial pressure or brain tumors), HYCODAN may reduce respiratory drive, and the resultant CO2 retention can further increase intracranial pressure. Furthermore, opioids produce adverse reactions that may obscure the clinical course of patients with head injuries.
Hydrocodone may enhance the neuromuscular blocking action of skeletal muscle relaxants and produce an increased degree of respiratory depression. Avoid the use of HYCODAN in patients taking muscle relaxants. If concomitant use is necessary, monitor patients for signs of respiratory depression that may be greater than otherwise expected.
Cases of adrenal insufficiency have been reported with opioid use, more often following greater than one month of use. Presentation of adrenal insufficiency may include non-specific symptoms and signs including nausea, vomiting, anorexia, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and low blood pressure. If adrenal insufficiency is suspected, confirm the diagnosis with diagnostic testing as soon as possible. If adrenal insufficiency is diagnosed, treat with physiologic replacement doses of corticosteroids. Wean the patient off of the opioid to allow adrenal function to recover and continue corticosteroid treatment until adrenal function recovers. Other opioids may be tried as some cases reported use of a different opioid without recurrence of adrenal insufficiency. The information available does not identify any particular opioids as being more likely to be associated with adrenal insufficiency.
HYCODAN is supplied as a white-colored, biconvex tablet, one face bisected and debossed with "205", and the other face plain, available in:
Store tablets at controlled room temperature 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Dispense in a tight, light–resistant container, as defined in the USP, with a child-resistant closure.
HYCODAN is available as a clear red-colored, cherry-flavored oral solution in:
Clinical studies have not been conducted with HYCODAN in geriatric populations.
Use caution when considering the use of HYCODAN in patients 65 years of age or older. Elderly patients may have increased sensitivity to hydrocodone; greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function; or concomitant disease or other drug therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Respiratory depression is the chief risk for elderly patients treated with opioids, including HYCODAN. Respiratory depression has occurred after large initial doses of opioids were administered to patients who were not opioid-tolerant or when opioids were co-administered with other agents that depress respiration [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4, 5.8)].
Hydrocodone is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because elderly patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, monitor these patients closely for respiratory depression, sedation, and hypotension.
Carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and fertility studies have not been conducted with HYCODAN; however, published information is available for the individual active ingredients or related active ingredients.
The hydrocodone in HYCODAN may increase the frequency of seizures in patients with seizure disorders, and may increase the risk of seizures occurring in other clinical settings associated with seizures. Monitor patients with a history of seizure disorders for worsened seizure control during HYCODAN therapy.
HYCODAN is not recommended for use in pregnant women. Prolonged use of HYCODAN during pregnancy can result in withdrawal in the neonate. Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome, unlike opioid withdrawal syndrome in adults, may be life-threatening if not recognized and treated, and requires management according to protocols developed by neonatology experts. Observe newborns for signs of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and manage accordingly. Advise pregnant women using opioids for a prolonged period of the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1), Patient Counseling Information (17)].
Administer HYCODAN by the oral route only.
Always use an accurate milliliter measuring device when administering HYCODAN oral solution to ensure that the dose is measured and administered accurately. A household teaspoon is not an accurate measuring device and could lead to overdosage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]. For prescriptions where a measuring device is not provided, a pharmacist can provide an appropriate measuring device and can provide instructions for measuring the correct dose. Do not overfill. Rinse the measuring device with water after each use.
Advise patients not to increase the dose or dosing frequency of HYCODAN because serious adverse events such as respiratory depression may occur with overdosage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2), Overdosage (10)]. The dosage of HYCODAN should not be increased if cough fails to respond; an unresponsive cough should be reevaluated for possible underlying pathology [see Dosage and Administration (2.3), Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in labeling:
The following adverse reactions have been identified during clinical studies, in the literature, or during post-approval use of hydrocodone and/or homatropine. Because these reactions may be reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
The most common adverse reactions to HYCODAN include: Sedation (somnolence, mental clouding, lethargy), impaired mental and physical performance, lightheadedness, dizziness, headache, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
Other reactions include:
Anaphylaxis: Anaphylaxis has been reported with hydrocodone, one of the ingredients in HYCODAN.
Body as a whole: Coma, death, fatigue, falling injuries, lethargy.
Cardiovascular: Peripheral edema, increased blood pressure, decreased blood pressure, tachycardia, chest pain, palpitation, syncope, orthostatic hypotension, prolonged QT interval, hot flush.
Central Nervous System: Facial dyskinesia, insomnia, migraine, increased intracranial pressure, seizure, tremor.
Dermatologic: Flushing, hyperhidrosis, pruritus, rash.
Endocrine/Metabolic: Cases of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition, have been reported during concomitant use of opioids with serotonergic drugs. Cases of adrenal insufficiency have been reported with opioid use, more often following greater than one month of use. Cases of androgen deficiency have occurred with chronic use of opioids.
Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, bowel obstruction, decreased appetite, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, GERD, indigestion, pancreatitis, paralytic ileus, biliary tract spasm (spasm of the sphincter of Oddi).
Genitourinary: Urinary tract infection, ureteral spasm, spasm of vesicle sphincters, urinary retention.
Laboratory: Increases in serum amylase.
Musculoskeletal: Arthralgia, backache, muscle spasm.
Ophthalmic: Miosis (constricted pupils), visual disturbances.
Psychiatric: Agitation, anxiety, confusion, fear, dysphoria, depression.
Reproductive: Hypogonadism, infertility.
Respiratory: Bronchitis, cough, dyspnea, nasal congestion, nasopharyngitis, respiratory depression, sinusitis, upper respiratory tract infection.
Other: Drug abuse, drug dependence, opioid withdrawal syndrome.
Hypoglycemia: Cases of hypoglycemia have been reported in patients taking opioids. Most reports were in patients with at least one predisposing risk factor (e.g., diabetes).
Avoid the use of HYCODAN in patients who are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken MAOIs within 14 days. The use of MAOIs or tricyclic antidepressants with hydrocodone, one of the active ingredients in HYCODAN, may increase the effect of either the antidepressant or hydrocodone. MAOI interactions with opioids may manifest as serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity (e.g., respiratory depression, coma).
NDC 64950-205-03
HYCODAN® CII(hydrocodone bitartrate andhomatropine methylbromide)tablets
5 mg/1.5 mg
"Dispense the accompanying MedicationGuide to each patient."
Rx Only30 tablets
GenusLifesciences Inc.

No specific drug interaction studies have been conducted with HYCODAN.
HYCODAN contains hydrocodone, a Schedule II controlled substance.
HYCODAN may cause severe hypotension including orthostatic hypotension and syncope in ambulatory patients. There is increased risk in patients whose ability to maintain blood pressure has already been compromised by a reduced blood volume or concurrent administration of certain CNS depressant drugs (e.g., phenothiazines or general anesthetics) [see Drug Interactions (7.4)]. Monitor these patients for signs of hypotension after initiating HYCODAN.
In patients with circulatory shock, HYCODAN may cause vasodilation that can further reduce cardiac output and blood pressure. Avoid the use of HYCODAN in patients with circulatory shock.
Concomitant use of alcohol with HYCODAN can result in an increase of hydrocodone plasma levels and potentially fatal overdose of hydrocodone. Instruct patients not to consume alcoholic beverages or use prescription or nonprescription products containing alcohol while on HYCODAN therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
HYCODAN is indicated for the symptomatic relief of cough in adult patients 18 years of age and older.
Opioids can reduce the efficacy of diuretics by inducing the release of antidiuretic hormone. Monitor patients for signs of diminished diuresis and/or effects on blood pressure and increase the dosage of the diuretic as needed.
NDC 64950-342-47
HYCODAN® (hydrocodone bitartrate andhomatropine methylbromide)oral solutionCII
5 mg/1.5 mg per 5 mL
"Dispense the accompanying MedicationGuide to each patient."
Rx Only473 mL
GenusLifesciences Inc.
