Key takeaways
Morphine (MS Contin, Kadian) and Norco (hydrocodone/acetaminophen) are both opioid medications used to relieve pain when non-opioid medications aren't enough. However, they have some important differences. Morphine is a pure opioid, while Norco is a combination of an opioid (hydrocodone) and an analgesic (acetaminophen). Morphine is available in various forms, including tablets, oral liquid, rectal suppositories, and injections, whereas Norco is only available as an oral tablet. Morphine is used for both acute and chronic pain, with immediate-release and extended-release options, while Norco is typically used for short-term pain relief. Both medications can cause side effects like constipation, nausea, and sleepiness, but Norco also carries a risk of liver damage because it contains acetaminophen. Both medications have a high risk of addiction and misuse and can cause dangerously slow breathing if mixed with alcohol or other opioids. It's important to follow your prescriber's instructions caraefully while taking morphine or Norco.
