Side effects from norco
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Side Effects from Norco
Introduction to Norco and Its Composition
Norco is a prescription medication that combines hydrocodone, an opioid pain reliever, and acetaminophen, a non-opioid pain reliever. It is commonly prescribed for the relief of moderate to severe pain. However, like all medications, Norco can have side effects, some of which can be severe and require immediate medical attention.
Common Side Effects of Norco
Gastrointestinal Issues
One of the most frequently reported side effects of Norco is gastrointestinal discomfort. This can include nausea, vomiting, and constipation. These symptoms are typical of opioid medications and are due to the way these drugs interact with the gastrointestinal system.
Central Nervous System Effects
Norco can also affect the central nervous system, leading to dizziness, drowsiness, and lightheadedness. These effects are particularly concerning because they can impair a person's ability to perform tasks that require full cognitive function, such as driving or operating machinery.
Severe Side Effects and Overdose Risks
Respiratory Depression
One of the most dangerous side effects of Norco is respiratory depression, a condition where breathing becomes shallow or stops altogether. This is a common risk with opioid medications and can be life-threatening. A case report highlighted an incident where a woman experienced severe respiratory depression after ingesting what she believed to be Norco, which was later found to contain fentanyl and a synthetic opioid called U-47700. Her condition required immediate administration of naloxone to reverse the effects.
Altered Mental Status
Norco can also cause significant changes in mental status, including confusion, hallucinations, and extreme drowsiness. In the aforementioned case, the patient presented with altered mental status, which was a direct result of the opioid overdose.
Illicit Norco and Synthetic Opioids
Fentanyl and U-47700
There have been alarming reports of street Norco being laced with other potent opioids like fentanyl and U-47700. These substances are not detected by routine urine drug tests and can cause severe toxicity. The case report from Central California underscores the importance of being cautious with medications purchased outside of legitimate pharmacies, as they may contain dangerous additives that significantly increase the risk of overdose and severe side effects.
Conclusion
While Norco is effective for pain management, it comes with a range of potential side effects, from common gastrointestinal and central nervous system issues to severe and life-threatening conditions like respiratory depression and altered mental status. The risk is further compounded by the presence of illicitly manufactured Norco containing potent synthetic opioids. It is crucial for patients to use Norco only as prescribed and to be aware of the signs of severe side effects, seeking immediate medical attention if they occur.
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