Norco vs. Neurontin for Pain and Epilepsy: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Norco (hydrocodone/acetaminophen) and gabapentin (Neurontin) are both used to manage pain, but they work in different ways and are used for different types of pain. Norco is a combination of an opioid (hydrocodone) and an analgesic (acetaminophen) and is used for pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid medications. It works quickly, within about 30 minutes, but has a high risk of misuse and dependency, making it a controlled substance. Common side effects include constipation, nausea, and sleepiness. Gabapentin, on the other hand, is an antiepileptic medication used to treat nerve pain and certain seizures. It is typically taken three times a day and can take up to a month to feel its full effects. Gabapentin is not federally classified as a controlled substance, but some states do monitor its use due to potential misuse. Common side effects include dizziness and sleepiness. Norco is available only in generic form; gabapentin is also available as a lower-cost generic and in different formulations, including tablets, capsules, and liquids.

Norco

(hydrocodone / acetaminophen)

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Gabapentin

(Neurontin)

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Summary for Norco

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 for Norco

Pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications alone

Pros and Cons for Norco

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 for Norco

Dizziness
Sleepiness
Nausea
Vomiting
Constipation
Itching

Warnings for Norco

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

Summary for Neurontin

Prescription only

Gabapentin, also known by its brand name Neurontin, is used to treat nerve pain from shingles in adults. This medication can also help treat partial (focal) seizures in adults and children. Gabapentin (Neurontin) comes as pills and a liquid that you take by mouth. The dosage depends on things like what you're treating, how old you are, and how well the medication is working. In general, you take it 3 times a day. Common side effects include making you feel dizzy and sleepy.

Indications for Neurontin

Nerve pain from shingles (postherpetic neuralgia) in adults
Partial (focal) seizures in people age 3 years and older

Pros and Cons for Neurontin

Pros

An option for relieving nerve pain caused by shingles
Can take with other anti-seizure medications for partial-onset seizures in people 3 years and older
Available as a tablet, capsule, and liquid for those who have trouble swallowing pills

Cons

Usually need to taken three times per day
Can cause dizziness and sleepiness
Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking the medication too suddenly or too fast

Common Side Effects for Neurontin

Sleepiness (19%)
Dizziness (17%)
Poor muscle control or clumsiness (13%)
Fatigue (11%)

Warnings for Neurontin

Severe allergic reactions
Sleepiness, dizziness, and trouble concentrating
Risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior
Higher risk of seizures and other side effects if you stop the medication too suddenly or too fast
Dangerously slowed breathing
Changes in behavior in children