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Compare Codeine vs. Norco

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Codeine and Norco (hydrocodone/acetaminophen) are both opioid medications used to treat pain when non-opioid options aren't effective. Both are Schedule II controlled substances, meaning they have a high potential for misuse and addiction. However, they have some important differences. Codeine is a single-ingredient opioid that is converted to morphine by the body, while Norco is a combination of hydrocodone (an opioid) and acetaminophen (a non-opioid pain reliever). Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic. The typical starting dose for codeine is 15 mg every 4 hours as needed, while Norco is usually taken as one 5 mg/325 mg tablet every 4 to 6 hours. Both medications can cause side effects like constipation and sleepiness, but Norco also has a risk of liver damage since it contains acetaminophen. You can reduce your risk for liver damage by avoiding other acetaminophen-containing medications while taking Norco. Both medications have a number of serious drug interactions. Be sure your prescriber and pharmacist have a complete list of your medications.

  • Codeine
    Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen)
  • Codeine
    Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen)

  • Summary of Codeine vs. Norco

    Summary for Opioid
    Prescription only

    Codeine is a schedule II opioid pain medication. It's taken by mouth to treat mild-to-moderate pain in adults, but only when non-opioid alternatives aren't working well. Some common side effects of codeine include constipation, itching, and sleepiness. You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication because doing so can lead to slowed breathing and loss of consciousness, which can be life-threatening. Codeine is generic only and not available as a brand name medication.

    Summary for Opioid / Analgesic
    Prescription only

    Norco is a combination medication that contains hydrocodone (an opioid) and acetaminophen (an analgesic). It's used to manage pain for people who've tried non-opioid medications but haven't gotten enough relief. Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen) is a tablet that's taken by mouth. It takes about 30 minutes to start working. Side effects include constipation, nausea, and sleepiness. It's also a controlled substance because it has a high risk of misuse and dependency.

    Please note: The brand name Norco is no longer available in the United States, but there are generic hydrocodone/acetaminophen tablets on the market.

  • Indications of Codeine vs. Norco

    Indications for
    •Mild-to-moderate pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications alone
    Indications for
    •Pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications alone

  • Pros and Cons of Codeine vs. Norco

    Pros and Const for Opioid
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Can take with or without food
    •Lower-cost generic is available
    Cons
    •Has a risk for dependence
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if suddenly stopped
    •Can cause dizziness and constipation
    Pros and Const for Opioid / Analgesic
    Pros
    •Can provide pain relief within 30 minutes
    •Available as a lower-cost, generic medication
    Cons
    •Can be habit-forming
    •Not recommended to take with other medications containing acetaminophen since it can raise the risk of liver damage
    •Is a controlled medication, so there are special requirements to get a prescription filled

  • Common Side Effects of Codeine vs. Norco

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Lightheadedness
    •Dizziness
    •Trouble breathing
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Sweating
    •Constipation
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness
    •Sleepiness
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Itching

  • Warnings of Codeine vs. Norco

    Common Side Effects for
    •Potential for addiction and misuse
    •Dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression)
    •Opioid overdose
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Drug interactions
    •Harm to newborn babies
    •Physical dependence and withdrawal
    •Low blood pressure
    •Low adrenal hormone levels
    •Seizures
    Common Side Effects for
    •Potential for misuse and addiction
    •Dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression)
    •Risk for opioid overdose
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Liver damage
    •Drug interactions
    •Harm to newborn babies
    •Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
    •Physical dependence and withdrawal
    •Low blood pressure
    •Low adrenal hormone levels
    •Seizures

  • Prices with our coupons for Codeine vs. Norco

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