Having difficulties with severe pain, and Are You looking for a safe, fast-acting solution? There are Hydrocodone and Norco, two opioid solutions widely used for treating pain. Both are FDA-approved drugs but are recommended to be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Because both are analgesic in nature and have a high potential for abuse. Although both are painkillers, people are confused about Are hydrocodone and Norco the same? The answer is no, they are not the same. Some of their properties are similar to each other, but we can’t say they are the same. To know more, read this article about Hydrocodone Vs Norco briefly and understand their similarities, differences, uses, and side effects in detail.
Difference Between Hydrocodone and Norco
Both hydrocodone and Norco are popular for their pain-relieving formula. Before using these powerful pills, know their effectiveness, composition, Working theory, and negative side also. Having clear knowledge of their contrasts will help you choose the right pill for your pain relief. Let’s discuss the pills individually.
What is Hydrocodone and its mechanism of Action?
Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that is commonly prescribed for treating moderate to severe pain. When other painkillers and non-opioids are not able to relieve pain, most doctors prescribe hydrocodone, which is synthesized from codeine. Hydrocodone does not contain any other active substances. It works by binding to the specific receptors in the brain called mu-receptors. It doesn’t affect the source of pain; it only alters the perception of pain. By altering the emotional response to pain, it calms the patient to engage in the healing process. Hydrocodone relieves pain by inhibiting the release of certain pain-related neurotransmitters in the brain.
Available Dosages:-
Hydrocodone 10-325mg, hydrocodone 10-500-mg, hydrocodone m367, hydrocodone 10-650-mg, hydrocodone 10-660-mg, hydrocodone m365, hydrocodone 5-325-mg
What is Norco, and its mechanism of Action?
The people who are confused about Norco and hydrocodone are the same thing; they must know that Norco is a combination pill of Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone. It is commonly prescribed for pain after surgery, injury, dental procedures, or chronic conditions. It works by targeting both the brain’s pain perception and the body’s response to pain, offering a combination approach to pain relief. As it contains Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen, Hydrocodone binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system, inhibits pain signal transmission, and alters the emotional response to pain. Whereas, Acetaminophen works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the brain. Majorly, it enhances pain relief and reduces fever without any anti-inflammatory effects. It helps to boost the pain-relieving effects of hydrocodone, helping to reduce frequent dosing.
Available Dosages:-
Norco 10-325 mg , Norco 7.5-325 mg, Norco 5-325 mg
Key Differences of Hydrocodone Vs Norco
This comparison is very important for the patient who alternates these painkillers without any consultation. They must know that all Norco contains hydrocodone, but not all hydrocodone is Norco. Therefore, this comparison will help you to choose whether the pill is best for pain relief or not. Let’s discuss their differences elaborately.
- Hydrocodone is a Generic name that is available in various forms, but Norco is a brand name of Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone combination.
- Hydrocodone is a generic opioid pain reliever that may be used alone or can be combined with other drugs for additional effectiveness. Whereas Norco is a combined pill formulated with 325 mg of Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone.
- The half-life of Hydrocodone is about 3.8 hours, and the half-life of acetaminophen is about 1.25 to three hours after taking the pill. Although Norco contains Hydrocodone, its half-life will depend on the amount of dosage you have taken.
- This half-life will affect the flushing out of the drug’s activity from your system. Therefore, Norco might have more negative effects than Hydrocodone.
- Hydrocodone carries a Lower risk of liver damage than Norco.
- Hydrocodone is used for quick, active chronic pain conditions when acetaminophen is not needed. Norco is generally prescribed for short-term pain relief, like after surgery or injury.
Therefore, if you are prescribed or want to take the pill in severe pain conditions must consult a physician to be sure the appropriate pill is for you.
Selecting the Right Option: Hydrocodone or Norco
When you want to take any painkiller, especially Opioids, you must have a prescription. If you think about how to get prescribed Hydrocodone or Norco, first, you have to visit a healthcare professional. After a proper clinical check-up, they will suggest to you any opioid or non-opioid medication according to your condition. If any opioid is suggested, among Hydrocodone or Norco, tell your doctor all your medical history or any other medications you are taking. Because it will affect the effectiveness of Hydrocodone and Norco majorly. Choosing the right option between the pills depends on the individual’s pain condition, medical history, and risk factors. So choose wisely and use properly under guidance to get the best result.
Warnings Associated With Hydrocodone and Norco
As we know, these two pills are analgesic in nature and directly affect the brain it should be used carefully. These are narcotic drugs, so they carry some serious risks and warnings. A patient should be aware of all these effects before using so that he/she can go for a proper treatment without panicking.
- It carries a high potential for Addiction if used for a long time.
- Respiratory Depression can be caused in an asthma patient or a patient having cardiac disease.
- Interaction with other drugs (like Xanax, Valium, Ativan, Klonopin, Subxone, Codeine, Tramadol, Lunesta, Ambien, Restoril, Prozac) can cause coma or death-like situations. So, consult a doctor when you plan to take another pill.
- High doses of acetaminophen can cause acute liver failure, so after a proper check-up, take another composition pill.
- Using hydrocodone or Norco in the 3rd trimester or regular use during pregnancy can cause Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS) in the baby.
- Hydrocodone and Norco may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. So avoid these during the period of pain-relieving treatment.
- Some individuals may experience serious allergic reactions. Sometimes it may need medical attention; otherwise, it will go away on its own.
Conclusion
To avoid these adverse effects, follow the guidelines and take the pills as prescribed by your doctor. Take only as prescribed, do not take your own, and avoid alcohol with it. Do not stop suddenly taking the pill, because it can cause withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, excessive sweating, etc. Store securely to prevent misuse by others and dispose of it properly when no longer needed.