Norco and Vicodin are brand names for the combination pain relievers containing the generic medications hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Norco is available in two strengths containing 325mg of acetaminophen and 5mg or 10mg of hydrocodone, while Vicodin contains 500mg of acetaminophen and 5mg of hydrocodone. As with all hydrocodone/acetaminophen products, Norco and Vicodin may cause a number of side effects.
Stomach Complaints
Stomach upset is the most common side effect of most medications, including narcotic-type pain relievers such as Vicodin and Norco. Most patients who experience gastrointestinal distress will experience nausea and possibly vomiting; taking the medicine with food may help eliminate these side effects. Patients who take Norco or Vicodin for a long period of time may experience constipation which, unlike nausea, will not decrease after continued use. Some patients with chronic pain that requires long-term use of Vicodin or Norco will need to use a laxative to relieve constipation. Patients who have some types or pre-existing gastrointestinal diseases may not be able to use these medications.
Dizziness
Dizziness and drowsiness, along with light-headedness, are common side effects with Vicodin and Norco use. These effects may be relieved by lying down, and will most likely subside as the patient becomes used to the medication. More severe changes in mental consciousness, particularly the inability to wake up, fainting or slow, shallow breathing may indicate overdose and warrant immediate medical attention.
Impaired Thinking
Changes in cognitive functions such as foggy thinking and confusion are experienced by some patients when taking Vicodin or Norco, while other patients can experience symptoms of anxiety or irritability. Most of the cognitive side effects will lessen with time. Long-term use of narcotic medications may lead to depression, which can become severe. Problematic or serious changes in mental function may warrant discontinuation of the medication and should be reported to a physician.
Liver Toxicity
Acetaminophen, one of the ingredients in both Norco and Vicodin, is known to cause liver toxicity when used in high doses. A maximum of 4g of acetaminophen should be taken daily to avoid liver damage. According to dosing instructions for both medications, daily use should not exceed a maximum of eight Vicodin tablets or 12 Norco tablets in order to preserve liver function.
Addiction Potential
All narcotic-type medications, including Vicodin and Norco may pose a potential risk for abuse and dependence. Narcotic medications should be taken only as prescribed for this reason. In addition, some patients will develop a physical dependence on the medication with chronic use. As indicated by prescribing information for all medications containing hydrocodone, when the medication is discontinued, symptoms of withdrawal--including diarrhea, sweating, flu-like symptoms and extreme anxiety--may be experienced. Some patients who take too much medication may experience symptoms of overdose, including extreme sedation and difficulty breathing. Because of these concerns, Norco and Vicodin are strictly controlled prescription medications and may require additional monitoring of use. Any symptoms of overdose or signs of withdrawal should be reported to a physician immediately.
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