Should I Be Concerned About Dark Brown Stools After Taking Hydrocodone For Pain After Gallbladder Surgery?

Posted on Wed, 4 Dec 2013

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

Wed, 4 Dec 2013 Answered on

Wed, 25 Dec 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : I'm taking hydrocone for pain after my gallbladder surgery and my stools are dark brown, should I be concerned?

Answered by Dr. Indu Kumar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer: Probable side effect of hydrocodone Detailed Answer: Hello Thanks for writing to XXXXXXX Hydrocodone is a narcotic analgesic and is known to cause minimal bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract and hence the dark brown stools in your situation. You should stop taking hydrocodone immediately and report to your surgeon for alternative pain control medications. It is important to know other medications you might be taking after your surgery to rule out other possible side effects and complications. Get well soon Hope i have answered your query. Further queries are most welcome. Take Care Dr.Indu XXXXXXX

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