Is Hydrocodone Associated With Parkinson's Disease In Any Manner?

Posted on Fri, 27 Nov 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 27 Nov 2015 Answered on

Thu, 17 Dec 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Is there any association to hydro codone use in the elderly and Parkinson's disease?

Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
it may worsen constipation

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

there is no direct problem with Parkinson's disease but it may worsen the constipation, which is a common problem in Parkinson's disease. All opioids may worsen bowel motility. Hydrocodone is a potent pain-killer and you'd better seek for milder alternatives before trying opioids.

I hope you find my comments helpful!
You can contact me again, if you'd like any clarifications or further information.

Kind Regards!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (5 hours later)

What is a good alternative to arthritis and osteoporosis pain with Parkinson's disease?

Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
paracetamol (acetaminophen)

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

the simplest and safest drug to use is paracetamol (acetaminophen). It has a much lower risk of side effects and is well tolerated by most patients. It's much less effective though than the rest. Other choices include intermittent usage of NSAIDs, which have some serious side effects particularly when used for a long time. If the pain is severe though, then using opioids won't be avoided at some point.

Treating osteoporosis to improve bone density may also help with the pain.

Kind Regards!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar