Norco Addiction

Norco addiction, along with addictions to other hydrocodone-based drugs, is an increasing problem in the U.S. Sales and production of hydrocodone have increased significantly in recent years—nearly 400% between 1990 and 2000—along with diversion and illicit use. Currently, about 20 tons of hydrocodone products are used annually in the United States. Generally, this drug is abused by oral rather than intravenous administration.

Norco detox is treatment for addiction to the drug Norco®, the brand name for a combination of acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and hydrocodone, an analgesic opiate used to treat mild pain and reduce coughing. Hydrocodone, which is habit-forming and closely linked to morphine, binds to the pain receptors in the brain so that the sensation of pain is reduced, while acetaminophen halts the production of pain-causing prostaglandins.

As the country becomes more familiar with the problem, some clinics are trying new methods of treating Norco® addiction. However, Norco® detox can be difficult because the drug falls into the opiate category (naturally occurring constituents of opium), causing both mental and physical addiction. Opiates travel rapidly through the bloodstream to the brain, where they stimulate opiate receptors, triggering intense feelings of pleasure and reward. (The hydrocodone in Norco® creates sensations of pleasure by stimulating the body’s production of Dopamine.) This quick high is followed a state of relaxation and contentment that lasts for several hours. Concurrently, opiates act directly on the respiratory center in the brainstem, causing a decrease in the breathing rate of the user. When Norco® and/or other opiate-derivative drugs are used incorrectly, this breathing slow-down can be dangerous and even fatal.

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