Thebacon is an opioid agonist narcotic analgesic of the middle range and a strong antitussive. Thebacon is indicated for moderate to moderately severe pain and dry painful coughing, like hydrocodone. It has a duration of action in the range of 5 to 9 hours and doses typically start at 5 mg q6h. For both pain and coughing, thebacon can be made more effective along with NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, and/or antihistamines like tripelennamine, hydroxyzine and promethazine.
Thebacon is a semisynthetic opioid medication [Wikipedia: Thebacon]. Here's a breakdown of its key points:
Type of drug: Opioid analgesic and antitussive
Similar to: Hydrocodone
Origin: Synthesized from thebaine, a natural product found in poppy plants (Papaver somniferum)
History: Invented in Germany in 1924
Medical use:
- Primary: Historically used as a cough suppressant, particularly in Europe.
- Current: Not commonly used anymore due to the availability of safer and more effective cough suppressants.
- Status in the US: Not approved for medical use due to high potential for abuse and dependence. It's a Schedule I controlled substance.
Important to know:
- Thebacon has pain-relieving (analgesic) and cough-suppressing (antitussive) effects similar to other opioids.
- It carries risks of addiction, dependence, and respiratory depression, especially with high doses or improper use.