When non-opioid painkillers are not sufficient, doctors prescribe Vicodin. It is a powerful Schedule II combination drug containing the opioid hydrocodone and the analgesic acetaminophen. It comes in both tablets, capsules, as well as oral solutions. You can use Vicodin orally. It may take a few minutes to activate. The effect depends on metabolism, liver function. You can take this drug with food or after food. Vicodin medications are available in two forms: liquid and tablet.