Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Tramadol (Ultram) and hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Vicodin) are both opioid medications used to treat pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid medications. However, they differ in several ways. Tramadol is a Schedule IV controlled substance, while hydrocodone/acetaminophen is a Schedule II controlled substance, which means hydrocodone/acetaminophen has a higher potential for misuse and dependency. Tramadol is available in both an immediate-release form, usually taken every 4 to 6 hours, and an extended-release form taken once daily. Hydrocodone/acetaminophen is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Both medications can cause nausea, constipation, and dizziness. Both medications can also cause serious side effects like dangerously slow breathing and withdrawal symptoms, especially if mixed with alcohol or some other medications like benzodiazepines. Tramadol can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome and seizures.
Tramadol
Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen)
Tramadol
Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen)
Summary of Conzip vs. Norco
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.
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 Conzip vs. Norco
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 Conzip vs. Norco
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