Lecture Notes: Hydrocodone Acetaminophen (Norco)

Overview

• Trade Name: Norco
• Common Usage: Given to post-operative patients and hospital patients experiencing pain.

Therapeutic and Pharmacologic Class

• Therapeutic Class: Opioid analgesic, antitussive
• Pharmacologic Class: Opioid agonist and non-opioid analgesic combination

Mechanism of Action

• Alters perception and reaction to pain by binding to opiate receptors in CNS
• Can suppress cough reflex

Purpose

• Management of moderate to severe pain
• Commonly used for post-operative pain or general pain management

Benefits of Combination

• Combines hydrocodone with acetaminophen to decrease hydrocodone dosage
• Acetaminophen acts as an adjunct for pain relief

Important Considerations

• Monitoring:

  • Monitor hemodynamics and respirations post-administration
  • Check heart rate, blood pressure, and respirations before administration
  • Post-administration monitoring to prevent CNS depression and respiratory failure

• Acetaminophen Dosage:

  • Do not exceed 4 grams per day
  • Exceeding limit can cause GI bleeding and liver damage

Opioid Antidote

• Narcan (Naloxone): Used to reverse opioid effects if respiratory failure occurs or if the patient becomes less arousable

Key Takeaways

1. Importance of monitoring CNS function and respiratory status
2. Ensure acetaminophen dosage does not exceed daily limits

Additional Resources

• For a cheat sheet on commonly prescribed medications, visit nrsng.com/50meds

Remember, always monitor your patients closely and adhere to medication guidelines to ensure patient safety and effective pain management. Happy nursing!