Long-acting opioid pain medicines, such as hydrocodone bitartrate ER tablets, can put you at risk for overdose and death. Even if you take your dose correctly as prescribed, you are at risk for opioid addiction, abuse, and misuse that can lead to death. Hydrocodone bitartrate is a phenanthrene-derivative opiate agonist that is used as an analgesic and antitussive agent. Hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen tablets contain hydrocodone, an opioid agonist, and is a Schedule III controlled substance. Hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen tablets, and other opioids, used in analgesia can be abused and are subject to criminal diversion. Norco (hydrocodone bitartrate and acetaminophen) is an opioid analgesic and antitussive (cough suppressant) combined with a pain reliever (analgesic) used to treat moderate to fairly severe pain. Hydrocodone bitartrate is a potent opioid analgesic frequently prescribed for the management of moderate to severe pain. Trade names for this drug include Vicodin, Lortab, and Norco, though there are numerous generic versions available as well. There is a greater risk of overdose and death with extended-release opioid formulations, including hydrocodone bitartrate. This drug should be used only when other treatments have failed to provide relief. Hydrocodone Bitartrate prescription and dosage information for physicians and health care professionals. Pharmacology, adverse reactions, warnings, and Hydrocodone Bitartrateside effects. Hydrocodone bitartrate extended-release tablets are an opioid agonist indicated for the management of severe and persistent pain that requires an opioid analgesic and that cannot be adequately treated with alternative options, including immediate-release opioids. (1) Hydrocodone is an opioid that binds to specific receptors in your body to give you pain relief. Common side effects may include constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and stomach pain. HYDROcodone Bitartrate (Antitussive) reference guide for safe and effective use from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (AHFS DI).