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Tylenol vs. Norco

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

Key takeaways

Tylenol and Percocet are pain medications that both contain the ingredient acetaminophen. Percocet, however, also contains the opioid oxycodone, and is intended for severe pain that can’t be relieved by non-opioid pain medications. For this reason, Percocet is only available by prescription. Tylenol is available over the counter that can treat fever and mild pain. Tylenol doesn’t have many side effects at regular doses, but Percocet is a controlled substance with several side effects, including sleepiness, dizziness, and constipation. More seriously, Percocet can lead to misuse and overdose.

Acetaminophen

(Tylenol)

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Norco

(hydrocodone / acetaminophen)

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Summary for Tylenol

Over-the-counter

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication used to lower fever and relieve mild pain in adults and children. It's available in many strengths and formulations, such as tablets, chewable tablets, and liquid. In general, acetaminophen (Tylenol) works within 45 minutes when it's taken by mouth. This medication typically doesn't have many side effects. It's recommended to limit or avoid alcohol while taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) to lower your risk for liver problems.

Indications for Tylenol

  • Mild pain
  • Fever

Pros and Cons for Tylenol

Pros

  • Works well to relieve mild aches or pain and lower fever
  • Can use in adults and children
  • Available in a lower-cost generic and is available over the counter
  • Comes in many different strengths and forms (e.g., tablet, capsule, chewable tablet, liquid, powder, suppository)

Cons

  • Doesn't help with inflammation and swelling
  • Might not work as well to treat moderate-to-severe pain
  • Not the best option for people who drink alcohol often because of the risk of liver damage

Common Side Effects for Tylenol

Side effects typically aren't common with this medication.

Warnings for Tylenol

  • Liver damage
  • Accidental overdose
  • Allergic skin reactions

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

Prices with our coupons for Tylenol vs. Norco

Price Card Drug Icon
Acetaminophen30 tablets / 325mg
$6.13$6.13
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Price Card Drug Icon
Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen12 tablets / 5mg/325mg
$9.75-
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