Norco Withdrawal Symptoms and Signs and Detoxification

Norco withdrawal occurs when someone who has developed a dependency on or an addiction to this opiate drug abruptly stops using it.


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Norco withdrawal occurs when someone who has developed a dependency on or an addiction to this opiate drug abruptly stops using it. Norco contains hydrocodone, which is a narcotic pain reliever. It also contains acetaminophen, a less powerful pain reliever that is combined to increase the effects of hydrocodone.

Typically Norco is prescribed by your physician to treat moderate to severe pain and may also be prescribed as a cough suppressant, but it is only intended for short term use.

Norco is habit-forming when used for long periods because it is an analgesic opiate that binds to the pain receptors in your brain in order to reduce pain. These receptors produce feelings of intense pleasure and relaxation when they are filled. The acetaminophen in Norco works to stop the production of pain-causing prostaglandins, which are a family of lipid compounds found in various tissues in the body that are associated with swelling and muscle contraction.

Norco withdrawal symptoms occur when the opiate receptors in the brain are no longer given the drug as a trigger for the intense feelings of pleasure and reward in the form of relaxation and contentment. These withdrawal symptoms may include severe pain, a pins-and-needles feeling throughout the body, sweats, anxiety, restlessness, vomiting, diarrhea, involuntary leg movements and intense cravings for Norco.

These symptoms can last up to six weeks and are followed by residual symptoms of depression, insomnia and weakness that can linger for months. Because of the sometimes long duration of withdrawal symptoms, Norco withdrawal treatment is more effective when carried out in a medically supervised detoxification program.

Withdrawing from Norco: Treatment Methods and Options for Help

Treatment for Norco withdrawal typically begins with detoxification. In a medical setting, such as a hospital or a drug rehab facility, medication can be administered at any point in the detoxification process to ease the patient’s symptoms and make the process more comfortable.

Traditional detox methods utilize group therapy or one-on-one counseling along with medication that helps to ease the discomfort of Norco withdrawal over a period of about four to six weeks. This method is most effective if carried out in an inpatient rehab and recovery facility where the patient is given 24-hour supervision and support from a team of medical professionals.

Patients may also choose to use rapid detoxification if health conditions or their level of dependency make Norco withdrawal symptoms too uncomfortable. In this method of detox, patients are given a general anesthetic that eliminates most of the peak withdrawal symptoms. The patient is under anesthetic for about an hour and then recovery begins under medical supervision.

During rapid detox you are monitored closely and, in the days following the sedation, your overall physical and mental condition is evaluated and treated accordingly.

Detoxing, Addiction Treatment Rehab and Recovery

After detoxification is complete and Norco withdrawal symptoms have abated, the patient can begin the path to recovery. In some treatment programs, Norco addiction rehab and recovery is done on an outpatient basis, utilizing community support groups and medical supervision by your physician or your hospital.

Due to the lingering symptoms of depression, insomnia, and weakness, inpatient care is often recommended for rehab and recovery from Norco addiction. Inpatient treatment programs in both private and publicly-funded facilities allow the patient to remain in a safe and supportive environment for as long as is necessary, which is very effective in ensuring long-term recovery from Norco addiction.

If you or someone you know is struggling with Norco addiction, contact a qualified professional to discuss your options for Norco withdrawal treatment and detoxification. Calls are private and there is no obligation or cost to discuss your treatment options.

Norco Information at a Glance
Medication Name, Costs Class of Medicine
  • Generic Name: Norco
  • Generic Name Variations: N/A
  • Chemical Name: Acetaminophen
  • Brand Name: Maxidone
  • Brand Name Variations: N/A
  • Cost/Price: Roughly $1.50 per tablet
  • Used to Treat Addiction? N/A
  • Function or Use at Low Dose: Cough reliever
  • Function or Use at High Dose: Pain killer
  • Chemical Makeup: C18H21NO3
  • System: Opioid
  • Duration of Action: 4-6 hours
Form, Intake, and Dosage Interactions and Complications
  • Drug Forms: Tablet
  • Administration Routes: Oral
  • Dosage: N/A
  • Overdose: You should not consume more than 6 tablets within 24 hours
  • Alcohol Interaction: Norco should not be taken with alcohol
  • Illicit Drugs: Norco should not be taken with any illicit drugs
  • Prescription Medications: Consult your doctor before taking any other prescription medications with Norco
  • Contraindications: N/A
Effects and Adverse Reactions Substance Abuse
  • Short-Term: Lightheadedness, dizziness
  • Long-Term: Sedation
  • Risk of Substance Abuse: Because it is an opiate, Norco can be highly addictive
  • Signs of Abuse: Neglect, anxiety
Physiological Problem Signs and Symptoms Dependence and Addiction Issues
  • Withdrawal Syndrome Onset: N/A
  • Withdrawal Symptoms: Anxiety, diarrhea, flu, goosebumps, hallucinations, insomnia, nausea, loss of appetite, pain, rigors, loss of sleep, sweating, shakes, tremors, headaches
  • Tolerance: Over time, your body will start to build up a tolerance to Norco
  • Cross Dependence: N/A
  • Physical Dependence: Your body doesn’t physically need it, but your brain thinks that it does
  • Psychological Dependence: Your brain will think that it needs Norco in order for your body to function properly
Legal Schedules and Ratings
  • Controlled Substances Act Rating: Schedule III

 

Questions and Answers (FAQ)

How Long Do Norco Withdrawals Last?

The timeline for Norco withdrawal symptoms can differ for each person. The duration of withdrawal, however, usually lasts for the length of several weeks to a couple of months.

Do You Have a List of Popular Slang or Street Names for Norco?

Hydro, tab, vikes, viko

Are There any Home Remedies for Getting Clean Safely?

If you’re seeking a home remedy to help ease the pains of withdrawal, it can be hard to find any that will provide relief. Natural alternatives aren’t usually as effective as rehab centers. Rehab centers specialize in easing the pains of withdrawal.

How Long Does it Take to Detox from Norco?

It can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to withdraw from Norco, depending on the level of addiction. If you’re looking into different options and programs, try using our online system or call 1-888-658-5242.