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Compare Relafen vs. Norco

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

Key takeaways

Nabumetone (Relafen) and Norco (hydrocodone/acetaminophen) are both used to manage pain, but they belong to different medication classes and work in distinct ways. Nabumetone is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps relieve arthritis symptoms like joint pain, swelling, and stiffness by blocking the inflammatory process. It is typically taken once or twice a day and is available only by prescription. In contrast, Norco is a combination of an opioid (hydrocodone) and an analgesic (acetaminophen) that is used for pain not relieved by non-opioid medications. Norco works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking pain chemicals. It is taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed and is a controlled substance due to its high risk of misuse and dependency. While nabumetone has a lower risk of stomach-related side effects compared to some other NSAIDs, Norco can cause serious side effects like dangerously slow breathing and liver damage if misused. Additionally, Norco requires special handling and monitoring due to its potential for addiction.

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  • Nabumetone
    Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen)
  • Nabumetone
    Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen)

  • Summary of Relafen vs. Norco

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Nabumetone is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works to help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis in adults. This can include pain, swelling, and stiffness in your joints. Nabumetone is a tablet that you take by mouth typically once per day. The dosage can be adjusted based on how well the medication is working for you. Side effects can include diarrhea and upset stomach.

    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 Relafen vs. Norco

    Indications for
    •Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
    •Osteoarthritis (OA)
    Indications for
    •Pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications alone

  • Pros and Cons of Relafen vs. Norco

    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Works well to help with OA and RA
    •Might have a lower risk of serious stomach issues than some other NSAIDs
    •Typically taken by mouth once per day
    Cons
    •Requires a prescription from a healthcare professional
    •Has many risks, including heart issues, stomach bleeding, and kidney problems
    •Not recommended for people with severe heart failure or kidney problems
    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 Relafen vs. Norco

    Common Side Effects for
    •Diarrhea (14%)
    •Indigestion (13%)
    •Stomach pain (12%)
    •Constipation (up to 9%)
    •Gas (up to 9%)
    •Nausea (up to 9%)
    •Dizziness (up to 9%)
    •Headache (up to 9%)
    •Itching (up to 9%)
    •Rash (up to 9%)
    •Ringing in the ears (up to 9%)
    •Swelling (up to 9%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness
    •Sleepiness
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Constipation
    •Itching

  • Warnings of Relafen vs. Norco

    Common Side Effects for
    •Risk of stomach ulcers and stomach bleeding
    •Risk of heart attack and stroke
    •High blood pressure
    •Swelling and risk of heart failure
    •Kidney damage
    •Liver problems
    •Risk of general bleeding and anemia
    •Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
    •Not safe to take while pregnant
    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 Relafen vs. Norco

    Learn more about Nabumetone
    Learn more about Norco

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