Norco is a brand of a prescription drug that is a combination of hydrocodone and acetaminophen
Hydrocode is a powerful opioid and acetaminophen is a less powerful painkiller that also reduces fevers. Norco is typically prescribed by doctors to relieve pain, but like many other prescription painkillers, misuse may lead to addiction. When dependency occurs, many people require an opioid detox and treatment program to stop. If not, the effects of Norco abuse can be dangerous.
Potential Side Effects of Norco Abuse
Like any prescription drug, Norco comes with a list of potential side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and headaches, but the real dangers of Norco come from its abuse. Although users may experience an initial euphoric high, Norco abuse can lead to serious health problems. Over time with repeated abuse, it may transform minor side effects into more severe health complications. In other cases, whole new problems may develop. Even one episode of heavy abuse may lead to an overdose that can be fatal.
The psychological and physical effects of Norco abuse may include:
- Repressed breathing or other respiratory problems
- Headaches
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Muscle pain and aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Liver damage
- Seizure or coma from overdose
- Withdrawal
- Dependency & addiction
These problems may only be the beginning. If someone mixes Norco with alcohol or other drugs, the effects may become even more dangerous. Drug interactions can be unpredictable and, in some cases, life-threatening.
Along with the Norco abuse effects, addiction can lead to several other problems. Many people who become addicted to prescription opioids will start to see other areas of their life suffer. Their addiction can carry over into financial struggles, relationship problems, trouble at work, a decline in their physical appearance, and a drastic decrease in their overall wellbeing. If they neglect to get the help of a prescription pill detox program to stop, they may eventually turn to harder opioids like heroin and fall further into addiction.
If you or someone you care about is showing Norco abuse symptoms, do not wait for heath problems to arise to get help. Just because it is a prescription drug, does not mean that it is entirely safe. At Banyan Detox Stuart, treatment plans like our intensive inpatient program could help you quit the abuse of these substances for good and get your life back on the right track.