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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) analgesic used for pain relief and to reduce fever in adults and children. It comes in many forms, including tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, liquids, powders, and suppositories. Your dose depends on your age and the product you take. Side effects are rare when taken as directed, but could include nausea and headache. Taking too much could cause serious liver problems.

Indications for Tylenol

Pros and Cons for Tylenol

Pros

  • Very well tolerated, side effects are rare
  • Safe for both adults and children
  • Available over the counter in many different forms
  • Doesn't make you sleepy

Cons

  • Doesn't help with inflammation and swelling
  • Risk of liver damage at high doses
  • Might not work as well to treat moderate-to-severe pain
  • Can interact with alcohol and raise your risk of liver problems

Common Side Effects for Tylenol

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
$3.82$6.15
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Price Card Drug Icon
Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen12 tablets / 5mg/325mg
$8.90$21.23
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