Hydrocodone vs. Oxycodone

Dec 28, 2022

Hydrocodone and oxycodone are two common prescription medications to manage mild to severe pain. Unfortunately, they are both also considered to be highly addictive. 

It's essential to know about each drug, their similarities, and differences before taking them to see if either is the proper medication for you. 

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.

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What is hydrocodone?

Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that often contains acetaminophen. It's often prescribed to treat pain from surgery or dental procedures. Some brand names that hydrocodone goes by are:

• Vicodin

• Lortab

• Norco

• Lorcet

What is oxycodone?

Oxycodone is also a semi-synthetic opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain. It goes by these brand names:

• OxyContin

• Percodan 

• Percocet

• Roxicodone

• Tylox 

• Xtampza ER

Similarities between hydrocodone and oxycodone 

Side effects

People using hydrocodone or oxycodone often experience common side effects, including:

• constipation

• nausea

• drowsiness

• dizziness

Hydrocodone does have a higher chance of causing constipation and stomach pain. In comparison, people who take oxycodone experience more headaches and dizziness. 

Drug scheduling  

The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) categorizes drugs in one of five categories based on their medical use and dependency/addiction level. Both hydrocodone and oxycodone are considered Schedule II drugs- meaning they are considered addictive and dangerous. 

Risk of life-threatening breathing issues

Because they are both opioids, hydrocodone and oxycodone intensify the effects of other medications that slow brain function. 

Therefore you should never mix either (or any opioids) with alcohol, barbiturates, or muscle relaxants, as it could lead to such slow brain function it causes respiratory distress. 

Differences between hydrocodone and oxycodone

Source

Both opioids are synthesized in labs. However, oxycodone is derived from thebaine (a part of the poppy plant), while hydrocodone is derived from codeine.

Uses

Both medications treat severe pain caused by cancer, surgery, dental procedure, and injuries. However, since hydrocodone comes from codeine, it can also be used as a cough suppressant (hydromet).

Forms and strengths 

Oxycodone is available in 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg extended-release tablets or 5 mg immediate-release capsules. 

Hydrocodone comes in 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 mg extended-release tablets or capsules.

Both are also available in liquid form. 

Which medication works better for pain: hydrocodone or oxycodone?

Since hydrocodone and oxycodone both stimulate brain receptors to improve pain tolerance and decrease pain perception, they are both very effective in treating pain. Many studies find that one doesn't work better than the other. 

However, some who have taken both suggest oxycodone is a little stronger.

Final thoughts

Because hydrocodone and oxycodone are highly addictive, most healthcare professionals prescribe them only when other medications don't control pain.

Always take these medications as prescribed by your doctor, don't stop taking them abruptly, never share your pain medicines with others, or mix them with other substances. Most importantly, keep an ongoing, honest conversation with your healthcare provider. 

If you or someone you love is addicted to opioid pain medications, there are local and online resources available to help:

SAMHSA’s National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

or visit theironline treatment center locator

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