Hydrocodone generally starts working within about 10 to 30 minutes after taking it orally. It reaches its peak effect between 30 minutes to 1 hour after ingestion. The pain-relieving effects typically last about 4 to 6 hours for immediate-release formulations.
Key Details:
- Onset time: 10 to 30 minutes
- Peak effect: About 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Duration: 4 to 6 hours (immediate-release), longer for extended-release forms
- Effect onset and duration can vary based on factors like metabolism, formulation type, and food intake (food can delay onset).
