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Compare Norco vs. Tramadol

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

Key takeaways

Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen) and tramadol (Conzip, Qdolo) are opioid medications. They’re prescribed to treat moderate-to-severe pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications. They’re both controlled substances and have side effects such as sleepiness, dizziness, and constipation. Both medications can lead to potential misuse and overdose, especially when combined with other substances that cause drowsiness,such as benzodiazepines and alcohol. One difference between the two medications is that tramadol is longer-acting than Norco. Though it’s rare, tramadol can increase your seizure risk and cause serotonin syndrome. These are also possible with Norco as well, but it’s even less likely.

  • Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen)
    Tramadol
  • Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen)
    Tramadol

  • Summary of Norco vs. Tramadol

    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.

    Summary for Opioid
    Prescription only

    Tramadol is an opioid pain medication used when non-opioid medications aren't working well enough to control pain. Compared to other opioids, tramadol might have a lower risk of misuse and dependency. But tramadol is a controlled substance and has a lot of potentially serious risks, so it must be used with caution.

  • Indications of Norco vs. Tramadol

    Indications for
    •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 Norco vs. Tramadol

    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
    Pros and Const for Opioid
    Pros
    •Extended-release tablets and ConZip capsules are taken once per day and last throughout the day.
    •Immediate-release tablets are available as a lower-cost generic.
    •Possible lower risk of misuse and dependency compared to other opioids
    Cons
    •A controlled medication, so there are special requirements to get a prescription filled
    •Must slowly lower the dose to stop the medication after long-term use to avoid withdrawal symptoms
    •Can't use in some children due to higher risk of potentially severe and life-threatening side effects
    •Not recommended while breastfeeding

  • Common Side Effects of Norco vs. Tramadol

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness
    •Sleepiness
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Itching
    Common Side Effects for
    •Constipation (up to 46%)
    •Nausea (up to 40%)
    •Dizziness (up to 33%)
    •Headache (up to 32%)
    •Sleepiness (up to 25%)
    •Vomiting (up to 17%)

  • Warnings of Norco vs. Tramadol

    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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Potential for addiction and misuse
    •Dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression)
    •Overdose
    •Harm to newborn babies
    •Drug interactions
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Seizures
    •Low blood pressure
    •Low adrenal hormone levels
    •Physical dependence and withdrawal
    •Low blood sodium levels

  • Prices with our coupons for Norco vs. Tramadol

    Learn more about Norco
    Learn more about Tramadol

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