Hydrocodone is a prescription medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as opioids. It is primarily used to relieve moderate to severe pain that cannot be effectively managed by other non-opioid pain medications.
Hydrocodone works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, thereby reducing the perception of pain. It also has a cough suppressant effect, which is why it is sometimes combined with other medications to treat cough.