Is hydrocodone/acetaminophen 5-325mg tabs (norco) the same as acetaminophen/cod#3 tabs?

These are similar but not identical. Hydrocodone is a more potent opioid than codeine and might be more effective if needed for severe pain. Codeine may be more likely to cause constipation. Hydrocodone also is more addictive if taken in high dose or for prolonged period of time.

Codeine,a true opiate,is derived from opium & is different from hydrocodone, an semisynthetic opioid.