Norco Overdose

If you happen to take too much Norco (hydrocodone/APAP), overdose symptoms would likely occur. The hydrocodone component of the medication may cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, and cardiac arrest. The acetaminophen component may cause diarrhea, confusion, and liver failure. Treatment for a Norco overdose may include certain medications or antidotes, "pumping the stomach," inducing vomiting, and supportive care.

 

Overdosing on Norco: An Introduction

Norco® (hydrocodone/APAP) is a prescription pain medicine. It contains two medications: acetaminophen (the same medication in Tylenol®) and hydrocodone (a narcotic). As with any medication, it is possible to take too much Norco. The specific effects of a Norco overdose can vary, depending on a number of factors, including the Norco dosage and whether it was taken with alcohol or any other medications or substances.
 

Symptoms of a Norco Overdose

The hydrocodone component of Norco may cause the following symptoms in the case of an overdose:
 
  • Cold, clammy skin
  • A slow heart rate (bradycardia)
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Extreme drowsiness, leading to a coma
  • Cardiac arrest
  • Loss of life.
     
The acetaminophen component of Norco may cause the following symptoms in the case of an overdose:
 
  • Yellowing of the whites of the eyes and skin (jaundice)
  • Dark urine
  • Confusion
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
  • Bleeding
  • Liver failure
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sweating
  • Irritability
  • Loss of life.
     
(Norco Overdose Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;