[rainelle58]

Can you take a motrin and vicodin at the same time

[joypulv]

You 'can' but shouldn't, because you want to space out the effects of each one. Keep in mind that neither one is good for your kidneys, liver, etc, and you need to stay just on the edge of pain or risk medical problems. Vidodin is faster acting, and ibuprofin can take up to 40 minutes to work, so plan accordingly.

Keep Tylenol on hand too. The least harmful to your body. Space out the vicodin for the worst pain.

[J_9]

you need to stay just on the edge of pain or risk medical problems.

I will disagree with this statement as it is easier to keep the pain away than it is to get rid of it once it rears it's ugly head.

This is how I disburse my motrin and vicodin to my surgical patients. Take a vicodin now then 2 hours later a motrin, then 2 hours later another vicodin, etc. This way you can take your vicodin every 4 hours and your motrin every 4 hours as directed.

[joypulv]

I totally agree with you J_9. I worded it all wrong. I wanted a way to say 'Don't take more than you need.' How you know that is a delicate process when tapering off. So many people become dependent on painkillers. I absolutely loved Vicodin after dental work because it got rid of all my other aches and pains, and I could have easily stayed on it forever.

[LoveTheMusic]

In general, yes you can as they possess different mechanisms of action. Both hydrocodone (in Vicodin) and ibuprofen (Motrin) can be upsetting to the stomach, however. This is acceptable for short term use, however neither is meant to be taken chronically alone or together unless directed by a physician. Also, if you do decide to take these together, please run it by your doctor and/or pharmacist as this combination or one of the two may not be appropriate for all patients.