Vicodin vs. other analgesic

When I was younger, I almost died from being given analgesics (not sure which kind), so I have never taken painkillers. Still, at 2 points in my adult life I have taken vicodin without incident. The last time was recently, and it has me thinking that I could take some kinds of painkiller. Vicodin is acetominophen and hydrocodone, and Tylenol is also acetominophen. However, is there any way that I could be allergic to the inactive ingredeints in Tylenol or other OTC painkillers, but not those in Vicodan? Could one of the ingredients in Vicodan be canceling out an allergy to the acetominophen?

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Thanks for writing to the forum!
Yes, it is possible that you are allergic to an inactive ingredient in Tylenol. As far as I know, there is no anti allergic in Vicodin---anti tussive (anti cough)—yes. Painkillers one needs to take many a times. You should consult an allergy specialist and get yourself tested for allergies to acetaminophen and other pain killers and to the inactive ingredients in these medications. Then you will know for sure what you are allergic to. You appear to tolerate Vicodin, so you have one option meanwhile.
Hope this helps. Please let me know if there is any thing else and do keep me posted. Take care!