Vicodin vs Norco, What’s The Difference & How Do They Compare?

Vicodin vs Norco Comparison

Hydrocodone-acetaminophen is a fairly common pain reliever that comes in a variety of forms. Vicodin’s generic form is often in tablet form, but Norco’s generic form might be in tablet or liquid form.

The way hydrocodone and acetaminophen are adjusted in these medications differs slightly. Vicodin comes in dosages of 5 mg, 7.5 mg, or 10 mg hydrocodone combined with 300 mg acetaminophen. It contains 5 mg, 7.5 mg, or 10 mg of hydrocodone and 325 mg of acetaminophen in Norco.

Difference in Doses

Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen Dosage

Both Vicodin and Norco are only available in tablet forms, with slight differences in the doses of hydrocodone and acetaminophen. However, other hydrocodone-acetaminophen combination drugs are also available under different brand names and doses, including:

• Oral Elixir: Lortab (hydrocodone-acetaminophen 10-300)
• Oral Solution: generic forms (hydrocodone-acetaminophen 7.5-325 and 10-325)
• Oral Tablet: Verdrocet, Xodol, and generic forms (various combinations of hydrocodone-acetaminophen, such as 2.5-325, 7.5-300, 10-300, 5-300, 5-325, 7.5-300, 7.5-325, 10-300, 10-325)

Norco Dosage

Norco is available in multiple doses, and the recommended dosage should only be followed as prescribed by your healthcare provider:

• Hydrocodone 5 mg, acetaminophen 325 mg (Norco 5-325): Take one or two tablets every four to six hours as needed for pain, not exceeding eight tablets in a 24-hour period.
• Hydrocodone 7.5 mg, acetaminophen 325 mg (Norco 7.5-325): Take one or two tablets every four to six hours as needed for pain, not exceeding six tablets in a 24-hour period.
• Hydrocodone 10 mg, acetaminophen 325 mg (Norco 10-325): Take one or two tablets every four to six hours as needed for pain, not exceeding six tablets in a 24-hour period.

Vicodin Dosage

The recommended Vicodin doses and instructions may vary depending on the prescribed dose, and it’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions:

• Hydrocodone 5 mg, acetaminophen 300 mg (Vicodin 5-300): Take one or two tablets every four to six hours as needed for pain, not exceeding eight tablets in a 24-hour period.
• Hydrocodone 7.5 mg, acetaminophen 300 mg (Vicodin ES 7.5-300): Take one or two tablets every four to six hours as needed for pain, not exceeding six tablets in a 24-hour period.
• Hydrocodone 10 mg, acetaminophen 300 mg (Vicodin HP 10-300): Take one or two tablets every four to six hours as needed for pain, not exceeding six tablets in a 24-hour period.

Potency

The potency of Norco, Vicodin, and other hydrocodone-acetaminophen medications is comparable since they contain similar active ingredient amounts. Nevertheless, higher doses of each prove stronger compared to their lower-dose counterparts. For instance, a Norco 10-325 tablet (comprising hydrocodone 10 mg and acetaminophen 325 mg) holds more potency than a Norco 5-325 tablet, which contains just hydrocodone 5 mg and acetaminophen 325 mg.

Learn More:

• How Long Does Hydrocodone Stay in Urine?
• What is Norco? Norco Drug For Severe Pain Information
• The Dangers of Hydrocodone Addiction, Symptoms & Treatment
• Hydrocodone Side Effects, Uses, Addiction and More
• Is Oxycodone Addictive
• What Is Oxycodone?
• Oxycodone Side Effects
• Opiate Withdrawal
• Opioid Withdrawal Timeline
• Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms
• Tramadol vs Oxycodone: Which is Better? Side Effect Comparison
• Oxycodone Dosage Guide, Precautions, and Max Dose
• Oxycodone Vs Oxycontin. Differences & Similarities, Abuse & Treatment Options

Side Effects of Norco and Vicodin

Norco may lead to various side effects, including constipation, urinary retention, and respiratory problems like breathing difficulties and respiratory depression. Caution is advised to monitor signs of slow breathing and severe respiratory issues, emphasizing adherence to scheduled dosages and careful timing of subsequent doses.

Difficulty in urination and slowed breathing could indicate an allergic reaction to Norco. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for detailed information about potential Norco toxicity.

Short-Term Side Effects:

• Lightheadedness.
• Vomiting.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea.
• Constipation.
• Drowsiness.

Long-Term Side Effects:

• Abnormal Liver Function Tests.
• Abnormal nervous system function.
• Hearing loss.
• Breathing problems.
• Possible head injury.
• Slowed or quickened heartbeat.
• Allergic reaction.
• Kidney disease.
• Liver disease.
• Liver damage.
• Vocal cord swelling.

Drug Interactions

When it comes to drug interactions, Vicodin and Norco, despite minor differences in acetaminophen content, share similar interactions. Both medications pose significant risks when combined with central nervous system depressants such as benzodiazepines or alcohol. Combining these substances with hydrocodone can heighten the risk of overdose. Notably, about 16% of opioid overdose cases involve benzodiazepine use. Additionally, mixing alcohol with acetaminophen can potentially cause liver damage.

Half-Life

The term “half-life” refers to the duration it takes for half of a single dosage to be fully eliminated from the body. Hydrocodone has a half-life of approximately 3.8 hours, while acetaminophen typically ranges from 1.25 to three hours. Irrespective of whether it’s Vicodin or Norco, both drugs exhibit these consistent half-lives.

Potential for Abuse

Both Vicodin and Norco belong to Schedule II controlled substances, signifying a high potential for abuse, addiction, and dependency. As the hydrocodone content remains the same in both medications, it’s unlikely that one has a higher propensity for abuse compared to the other.

Norco Drug Withdrawal Symptoms

Norco, an opioid, can be very effective at relieving pain, but it can also be addictive. If you stop taking Norco after taking it for a while, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms are caused by the body’s attempt to adjust to not having the drug anymore.

The most common Norco withdrawal symptoms include:

• Anxiety.
• Restlessness.
• Insomnia.
• Sweating.
• Chills.
• Muscle aches.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Cravings for Norco.

Withdrawal symptoms typically start within 6-12 hours of the last dose of Norco and peak within 72 hours. The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the individual. Most people will experience withdrawal symptoms for 5-7 days, but some people may experience symptoms for longer.

If you are experiencing Norco withdrawal symptoms, it is vital to seek medical attention. Your doctor can help you manage your symptoms and prevent complications.

Tips for managing Norco withdrawal symptoms:

• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Exercise regularly.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve pain and fever.
• Talk to your doctor about other medications that may help to manage your symptoms.

1.6 Million

An estimated 1.6 million people in the US were reported to have opioid use disorder in 2019, indicating a diagnosed addiction to opioids.

Source: NCBI

18%

In 2019, only about 18% of people with opioid use disorder received specialty treatment for their addiction.

Source: NSDUH