Table 3: Recommended Pediatric Hydrocodone Dosages: Combination Therapy

Drug/Indication     Usual Dosage Regimen Maximum Recommended Dose
Analgesic hydrocodone bitartrate/acetaminophen (APAP) (Lortab®, Norco®, generics)
  • 2-3 years of age (12 to 15 kg): 
    • 1.875 mg every 4-6 hours as needed
  • 4-6 years of age (16 to 22 kg):  
    • 2.5 mg every 4-6 hours as needed
  • 7-9 years of age (23 to 31 kg):
    • 3.75 mg every 4-6 hours as needed
  • 10-13 years of age (32 to 45 kg):      
    • 5 mg every 4-6 hours as needed
  • Greater than or equal to 14 years of age (greater than or equal to 46 kg): 
    • 7.5 mg every 4-6 hours as needed
  • 750 mg daily (APAP+)*
  • 1 g daily (APAP)*
  • 1.5 g daily (APAP)*
  • 2 g daily (APAP)*
  • 3 g daily (APAP)*
Analgesic hydrocodone bitartrate/ibuprofen (Vicoprofen®, Ibudone®, Reprexain®, generics) 16 years and older: 2.5-10 mg/200 mg every 4-6 hours as needed 5 tablets daily**

Legend:

  • +APAP = acetaminophen
  • *dosage limit based on maximum acetaminophen daily dose
  • **short-term use (less than 10 days) recommended