Find patient medical information for Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen (Norco, Vicodin, others) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Hydrocodone produces respiratory depression by direct action on brain stem respiratory centers. The respiratory depression involves a reduction in the responsiveness of the brain stem respiratory centers to both increases in carbon dioxide tension and electrical stimulation. Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen is a prescription medication used to treat Moderate to Severe Pain. Learn about side effects, dosages, drug interactions, and more. Hydrocodone Acetaminophen 5-325 is a widely prescribed painkiller, combining an opioid and a non-opioid analgesic. While effective for managing moderate to severe pain, its potential for misuse, dependence, and addiction raises significant concerns. Hydrocodone and acetaminophen is a Schedule II controlled substance. All branded hydrocodone and acetaminophen (Norco, Vicodin, Lortab, Hycet, Lorcet, Verdrocet, Xodol, Zamicet) have been discontinued, but generic hydrocodone and acetaminophen tablets and oral solution is still available. Hydrocodone acetaminophen 5-325 is indicated for relieving moderate to severe pain. Brand names include Norco and Lortab. Was this helpful? Sarah Lewis is a pharmacist and a medical writer with over 25 years of experience in various areas of pharmacy practice. Norco and Vicodin are prescription medications composed of hydrocodone and acetaminophen, a non-opioid pain reliever, in different dosage forms. Although commonly known by their brand names, they are now only prescribed as generic versions. Hydrocodone and acetaminophen combination is used to relieve pain severe enough to require opioid treatment and when other pain medicines did not work well enough or cannot be tolerated. Learn about Hydrocodone's drug profile, proper doses, potential side effects and how it affects your patients. This combination medication is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It contains an opioid pain reliever (hydrocodone) and a non-opioid pain reliever (acetaminophen). Hydrocodone works in the brain to change how your body feels and responds to pain. Acetaminophen can also reduce a fever.