There are several popular opioid medications doctors rely on to help patients living with chronic or acute pain. Norco, OxyContin, and Vicodin are all widely prescribed but are also highly addictive. Learning about the medical uses of Norco and similar drugs can help you recognize when addiction develops.
If you or a loved one struggles with opioid addiction, Evoke Wellness in Ohio can help. Call 866.430.9267 for a confidential addiction assessment.
What Is Norco?
Norco is a combination of acetaminophen (commonly found in over-the-counter painkillers) and hydrocodone. Acetaminophen enhances the effects of the hydrocodone to provide faster pain relief.
Healthcare providers typically prescribe Norco for short-term pain relief, such as after surgery or a dental procedure. It can also be used to manage chronic pain, but only under close supervision due to its potential for addiction.
Similar Medications
Norco is part of a larger class of opioid drugs that are prescribed for pain management. Other medications in this class include:
- OxyContin
- Vicodin
- Percocet
- Dilaudid
These medications all contain opioid compounds. Opioid compounds interact with opioid receptors in the brain to block pain.
How Opioids Work
Opioids interact with the body’s pain management system. They bind to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other organs, blocking pain signals from reaching the brain.
In addition to relieving pain, opioids also produce a sense of euphoria and relaxation. In combination with developing a tolerance for opioids, these euphoric effects make it hard to break the cycle of addiction when it starts. Opioid addiction can also lead to or make mental health conditions worse. Dual diagnosis treatment can help overcome addiction and manage mental health symptoms.
The Dangers of Opioid Addiction
Starting with Norco for medical use seems innocent enough. Unfortunately, misuse and addiction can quickly occur. Addiction can lead to a range of long-term consequences, including:
- Physical and psychological dependence
- Damage to relationships
- Legal issues
- Health problems
There is also a significant risk of overdose when misusing opioids. Overdose can lead to respiratory depression and even death. In recent years, opioid addiction has become an epidemic in the United States.
Ohio’s Fentanyl Problem
The opioid overdose epidemic continues to grow, now in large part due to illicit fentanyl. Illicit versions of fentanyl are unregulated and are even cut into counterfeit versions of prescription drugs
- 81% of 2022 overdose deaths in Ohio involved fentanyl
- The drug is 50x more potent than heroin
- Even small doses of fentanyl can be deadly
Narcan, an opioid reversal medication, is often used to save lives in cases of overdose. It may be available without a prescription near you. Even if you administer Narcan, call 911 immediately as the drug may not be enough to reverse an overdose completely.
Recognizing the Signs of Opioid Abuse
Stopping the cycle of addiction before it starts is the best way to avoid negative consequences. That’s why it’s essential to know the signs of opioid abuse, including:
- Taking opioids more frequently or in higher doses than prescribed
- Engaging in risk-taking behaviors while under the influence
- Becoming preoccupied with obtaining and using opioids
- Neglecting responsibilities due to opioid use
- Doctor shopping to obtain multiple prescriptions
- Changes in mood, behavior, or appearance
If you or a loved one exhibits any of these signs, it may be time to seek help. It’s important not to ignore the warning signs and take action before addiction becomes unmanageable. Professional substance abuse treatment can help overcome addiction.
Start Detox and Treatment at Evoke Wellness in Ohio
Evoke Wellness is a trusted drug and alcohol treatment provider with a center located in Hillard, Ohio. Our compassionate and experienced staff understands the complexity of addiction and provides individualized treatment plans for each patient. We offer detox services, residential and inpatient programs, as well as aftercare support to help you maintain sobriety after treatment.
Find the help and hope needed to move forward. Call 866.430.9267 or contact us online to get started.
