Compare Norco vs. tramadol

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Treats moderate to moderately severe pain.

Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen) is a good option to treat pain when over-the-counter medicines haven't worked, but it can lead to dependence and tolerance if taken for a long time.

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3.7/ 5 average rating with 1194 reviewsforNorco
Treats moderate to severe pain.

Ultram (tramadol) works well for pain. Although it's a little weaker than other opioids, it can still be addictive.

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3.4/ 5 average rating with 642 reviewsfortramadol
Upsides
  • Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen) has two medicines to treat moderate to moderately severe pain. The combination is more effective than either drug alone.
  • Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen) is more potent than many over-the-counter options.
  • You can take this with or without food.
  • This medicine also comes as a liquid if you have trouble swallowing.
  • Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen) is available as a generic.
  • Relieves moderate to severe pain. It has been shown to work as well as other opioid pain medications.
  • Compared to typical opioids, it provides unique pain relief and effects on your mood when taken regularly.
  • Has a lower chance of causing breathing problems compared to other typical opioids.
  • Doesn't cause as much constipation as other opioid pain medicines. Staying hydrated and taking laxatives can help treat this side effect.
Downsides
  • Constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea can commonly occur.
  • Since Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen) is a controlled medication, it cannot be refilled or transferred to another pharmacy.
  • Long-term use can cause dependence and tolerance.
  • Too much Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen) can damage the liver.
  • Not effective in treating all kinds of pain.
  • Some people think it's weaker than other opioid pain medications. It can also cause more upset stomach.
  • Like other opioid pain relievers, Ultram (tramadol) has a high risk of addiction, abuse, misuse, overdose, and death.
  • The extended release version of Ultram (tramadol) should only be used for severe pain that requires daily, around-the-clock treatment once alternative treatments haven't worked.
  • It's a controlled substance regulated by the federal government. This means that your use of Ultram (tramadol) will be tracked to prevent potential prescription abuse.
  • Like all opioids, don't use when pregnant, since the baby can become dependent on it and have withdrawal symptoms after birth.
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Used for
  • Moderate to severe pain
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Liquid
  • Pill
  • Extended release
  • Extended release capsule
  • Dissolving tablet
Price
Lowest price
$54.33
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Lowest price
$22.89
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Reviews
1194 reviews so far
67%
saidit'sworth it
44%
saiditworked well
13%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen)?

Leave a review
642 reviews so far
61%
saidit'sworth it
40%
saiditworked well
16%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Ultram (tramadol)?

Leave a review
Side effects
The Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
13possible side effects
  • Dizziness
    26%
  • Nausea
    24%
  • Constipation
    24%
  • Headache
    18%
  • Sleepiness
    16%
  • Vomiting
    9%
  • Pruritus
    8%
  • CNS Stimulation
    7%
  • Asthenia
    6%
  • Sweating
    6%
  • Dyspepsia
    5%
  • Dry Mouth
    5%
  • Diarrhea
    5%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Liver failure
    • Current liver disease
    • Taking Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen) with alcohol
    • Taking other medicines containing acetaminophen
  • Slowed breathing
    • Age 65 or greater
    • High dosages
    • History of lung problems
    • Taking other painkillers or sedatives
  • Severe allergic reactions
    • Taking more than the prescribed dose
    • Long-term use
    • History of substance abuse
    • Younger age
  • Tolerance, dependence, and addiction
    • Taking more than the prescribed dose
    • Long-term use
    • History of drug abuse
    • Younger age
  • Constipation
    • Age 65 or greater
    • Long-term use of opioids
    • Taking drugs that cause constipation
  • Confusion and drowsiness
    • Drinking alcohol
    • Age 65 years or older
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Breathing problems
    • Age 65 or greater
    • Overdose
    • Using alcohol, benzodiazepines or other medicines that slow breathing
  • Addiction, abuse, and overdose
    • Taking more than the prescribed dose
    • Taking with alcohol or benzodiazepines
    • Stopping Ultram (tramadol) suddenly
  • Interactions with other drugs
  • Withdrawal in newborns
    • Pregnancy
  • Accidental ingestion
    • Children can reach medication
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Norco (hydrocodone / acetaminophen)
Learn more about Ultram (tramadol)