What is Norco? Norco Drug For Severe Pain Information

What is Norco?

Norco, which combines hydrocodone and acetaminophen, is a medication utilizing a dual approach to alleviate pain.

Hydrocodone functions as an agonist, binding to specific mu-opioid receptors in the brain, thereby reducing pain sensation.

Meanwhile, acetaminophen serves as an analgesic by inhibiting the production of particular brain chemicals responsible for pain, thus aiding in pain relief.

What is Norco Used For?

Its main uses include:

• Pain Relief: Norco is prescribed to alleviate moderate to moderately severe pain, such as pain resulting from injuries, surgeries, dental procedures, or chronic conditions.
• Acute Pain Management: It is often used when short-term pain relief is needed, such as after surgical procedures or trauma.
• Chronic Pain: In some cases, Norco may be prescribed for treating chronic pain conditions when other less potent pain medications are ineffective.

Norco Drug Class

Norco is considered a Schedule II controlled substance due to the potential for abuse and addiction associated with hydrocodone, a powerful opioid. Norco is classified as a combination medication that contains two active ingredients: hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Each of these ingredients belongs to different drug classes:

1. Hydrocodone: Hydrocodone is an opioid analgesic, meaning it belongs to the drug class of opioids or narcotics. It is a potent pain reliever that binds to opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain perception.
2. Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen is a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic. It belongs to the drug class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Acetaminophen is commonly used to relieve pain and reduce fever but does not have the same opioid effects as hydrocodone.

Together, hydrocodone and acetaminophen provide a combined effect for pa

Is Norco an Opioid?

Hydrocodone, an ingredient in Norco, is classified as an opioid—a synthetic medication utilized for treating moderate to severe pain. It operates on the brain similarly to natural opiates derived from the poppy plant. Meanwhile, the acetaminophen component (commonly known as Tylenol) in Norco is less potent but can pose risks if consumed in large amounts or over an extended period.

What Are Opioids?

Opioids, inclusive of both natural and synthetic forms, are prescribed for individuals dealing with post-surgery recovery and those enduring persistent and intense pain. Notable opioids, apart from hydrocodone, encompass potent narcotics like oxycodone, morphine, codeine, fentanyl, and carfentanil. These substances bind to receptors in the brain and throughout the body to alleviate pain. Common side effects of opioid usage involve constipation, nausea, drowsiness, mental fog, and potential sexual issues. Inform your doctor immediately if any breathing difficulties arise. Using Norco cautiously is essential, as it can lead to dependency if used regularly. Missing a dose can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms that might cause harm to the liver or central nervous system.

Potential Norco Drug Interactions

An overdose of opioids like Norco can be easily triggered when attempting to compensate for a missed dose. In case overdose symptoms manifest, contacting your physician immediately or seeking emergency medical assistance is crucial.

Abuse of Norco is prevalent among individuals addicted to opiates who seek a high when their primary drug isn’t available. The hydrocodone segment of Norco induces a lasting high that can persist for hours.

Norco misuse is not limited to legitimate prescriptions; it’s also obtained through fake prescriptions and sold on the black market, sometimes mixed with contaminants like fentanyl.

Serious Drug Interactions:

• Both hydrocodone and acetaminophen, the constituents of Norco, can have adverse reactions when mixed with alcohol.
  • Combining alcohol with hydrocodone may lead to drowsiness, impaired motor function, and a heightened risk of overdose.
  • Mixing alcohol with acetaminophen might result in liver damage and compromised breathing.
• Norco can present severe interactions when used alongside:
  • Anticholinergics like Eluxadoline.
  • Sodium Oxybate.
  • Sodium Fusidate.
  • CYP3A4 Inhibitors.

Norco’s Toxicity

Norco, categorized by the FDA as a Schedule III controlled substance for short-term pain management, carries a potential for addiction and has been linked to substantial toxicity, notably causing liver damage. Higher doses of acetaminophen have been associated with kidney failure and respiratory difficulties. The use of hydrocodone can induce life-threatening suppression of the respiratory system, particularly when combined with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants.

Learn 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

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.

Is Norco Addictive?

Norco is considered addictive. Norco contains hydrocodone, an opioid that acts on specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord known as opioid receptors. When hydrocodone binds to these receptors, it reduces pain perception and produces euphoria and relaxation.

The euphoric effects of opioids, like hydrocodone, trigger the brain’s reward pathway, reinforcing the desire to continue using the drug. Over time, the brain can become reliant on the presence of opioids to maintain a sense of well-being, leading to physical dependence.

Norco Pain Medication Overdose Symptoms

A Norco pain medication overdose can occur when someone takes more than the prescribed dose or when the drug is misused or abused. Since Norco contains both an opioid (hydrocodone) and acetaminophen, an overdose can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening complications.

If you suspect a Norco overdose or notice any signs of overdose in someone, seek immediate medical attention. Opioid overdoses are medical emergencies, and timely intervention can be life-saving. It’s essential to store Norco securely and use it only as a healthcare professional prescribes to prevent the risk of overdose.

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