Key takeaways
OxyContin (oxycodone) and Norco (hydrocodone/acetaminophen) are both opioids used to manage pain when non-opioid medications haven't provided enough relief. However, they differ in several ways. OxyContin is an extended-release form of oxycodone taken every 12 hours for long-term pain relief, while Norco combines hydrocodone with acetaminophen and is taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed for pain. OxyContin is available as both a brand and a generic, whereas Norco is only available as a generic. Both medications can cause side effects like constipation, nausea, and sleepiness, but Norco also carries a risk of liver damage because it contains acetaminophen. OxyContin and Norco both have a high risk of misuse and addiction and interact with many other medications, so it's important to take them exactly as prescribed. Norco should be avoided with other acetaminophen-containing medications, including over-the-counter acetaminophen-containing products.
