Acetaminophen (325 mg), a non-opioid analgesic, and hydrocodone bitartrate (5 mg), an opioid pain reliever, are the two active components of Norco 5-325 mg, a prescription pain medication. When other therapies are not enough, it is used to ease mild to moderately severe pain. Acetaminophen improves pain relief and can lower temperature, while hydrocodone alters the body's perception of pain by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain. When taken orally, Norco is typically taken every 4–6 hours as needed. Norco has a risk of addiction, overuse, and abuse because it contains hydrocodone. It must be used precisely as directed. Acetaminophen, in particular, can cause liver damage if taken in excess or over an extended period of time.