Norco^® (hydrocodone/APAP) is a prescription painkiller that contains two medications: hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Due to its narcotic component (hydrocodone), the medication is classified as a Schedule III controlled substance -- this means that strict laws and regulations surround the sale and use of this drug. As a narcotic, Norco is a highly desired drug of abuse, and Norco addiction can be a significant problem for many people.

Hydrocodone is a semisynthetic narcotic, opioid pain reliever that is chemically related to codeine. In the United States, it is only available in combination medications; it is not available alone. Acetaminophen, the other component of Norco, is a nonopioid analgesic and fever reducer.

(To learn more about the Schedule III drug class, click Norco Uses. This article also tells you what you need to know about how Norco works and who is allowed to take it.)

What Your Pharmacist Wishes You Knew About Chronic Pain Medications

List of references (click here)

Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD

Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD

Referring Pages:

Articles

Advertise with Us

About eMedTV

eMedTV serves only as an informational resource. This site does not dispense medical advice or advice of any kind. Site users seeking medical advice about their specific situation should consult with their own physician. Click Terms of Use for more information.