Tramadol Versus Norco: A Point By Point Comparison
Tramadol is a powerful opioid drug that was introduced in the United States in 1994. It was listed by the Food and Drug Administration under the unscheduled category because of the perception that it had a lower abuse potential. (1)
Norco, with a formulation of hydrocodone and paracetamol, is also marketed under different brands such as Lortab, Vicodin, Hycet, Zydone and more. Hydrocodone, being a narcotic opioid, is mixed with paracetamol to lessen the side effects of the former without jeopardizing its effectivity.
The drug was initially categorized as a Schedule III drug, however, after a bunch of controversies hit hydrocodone combination drugs, it was rescheduled to Schedule II. This makes Norco and similar other drugs more regulated. (2)
Here are some significant differences between Tramadol and Norco:
Uses of Tramadol and Norco
Tramadol and Norco are both used as pain relievers. Norco, however, uses two types of drugs to do so. One is Hydrocodone, which targets the user’s opioid receptors; while the other one is paracetamol.
Paracetamol reduces pain by inhibiting the production of pain causing chemicals in our body called prostaglandins. Paracetamol can also work as an analgesic, meaning it can reduce fever symptoms and lower body temperature.
Other than pain relief, a study has shown that Tramadol can be administered to surgery patients to help reduce post anesthesia shivering.
Side Effects of Tramadol and Norco
Hydrocodone, Norco’s main component, is believed to have more adverse side effects than Tramadol. Tramadol, being a synthetic opioid, is also thought to have a lower abuse potential than Hydrocodone combination drugs like Norco. (3)
However, due to the presence of Acetaminophen, the drug’s pain relieving property has increased without any increase in the likelihood of its side effects.
Listed below are some side effects that are common to both drugs:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Itching
- Constipation
- Mild Anorexia/ Lack of Appetite
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Asthenia/ Weakness
There are also some side effects that are more common to each drug compared to the other, such as:
A. Tramadol:
- Seizures
- Sore throat
B. Norco
- Low Blood pressure
- Respiratory Depression
Effect on Pregnant Women
Both Norco and Tramadol are considered by the FDA as a grade C drug with respect to pregnant women. This means that these drugs can potentially harm an unborn fetus if ingested by the pregnant mother. Research has shown that fetuses from mothers that take any opioid medications such as Tramadol or Norco are often born with physical dependence.
Norco’s paracetamol, on the other hand, has also been shown to have adverse effects on unborn fetuses.
The Fielding School of Public Health at the University of California has conducted a research that proved that infants born by mothers that often take the drug have a higher chance of having ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
ADHD, simply placed, is a brain disorder that makes it hard for a person to pay attention and control impulsive behaviors.
Can Tramadol and Norco be Taken Together?
Taking Norco and other Hydrocodone/ Paracetamol drug with other opioids like Tramadol can demonstrate an increase in side effects most especially respiratory depression. It can also result in opioid overdose if done improperly. (4)
Always tell your doctor if you are taking any other drugs when you ask for either Tramadol or Norco.
Price of Tramadol and Norco
Tramadol’s generic versions can be bought at an average price of $50 per 30 120 mg packs. However, its branded version, Ultram, is sold at $83 for the same amount. Patients can use their Medicare, or other insurances to pay for the Tramadol. (6)
Norco oral tablets can be bought for an average price of $290 per 100 tablets (325 mg-5 mg formulation). It can, however, be obtained illegally for about $2-$3 per tablet. It is far more expensive than Tramadol. However, generic Hydrocodone/ Paracetamol can be purchased for as low as 60 cents per tablet. (7)
Tramadol and Norco both require a prescription from a doctor for you to buy them. Remember to always consult your doctor before deciding which drug to take.
References
Tramadol HCL. (n.d.). Retrieved August 3, 2017, from WebMD: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4398-5239/tramadol-oral/tramadol-oral/details
Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen. (n.d.). Retrieved August 3, 2017, from WebMD: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-251/hydrocodone-acetaminophen-oral/details
“Vicodin Prescribing Information for Health Care Professionals”. www.vicodin.com. Retrieved 2017-08-03.
Becker, Daniel E. (2011-01-01). “Adverse Drug Interactions”. Anesthesia Progress. 58(1): 31–41.
Norco Prices, Coupons and Patient Assistance Programs. (n.d.). Retrieved August 3, 2017, from Drugs: https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/norco
Tramadol Prices, Coupons and Patient Assistance Programs. (n.d.). Retrieved August 3, 2017, from Drugs: https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/tramadol
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