House star Hugh Laurie has confessed to experimenting with painkiller Vicodin – but warns others to be “careful” with the powerful drug.

The British actor, 48, admits he had previously dabbled with the drug – the same one his TV character Dr. Gregory House is addicted to – but claims he only tried it out so he could identify with his on-screen persona’s struggle with the strong substance.

Speaking to U.K. magazine Radio Times, he says, “I wouldn’t recommend it – we have to be careful. “But then again, if you’re not in pain, it gives a floaty, pleasurable feeling.”

WENN