Opioid drugs work by binding to receptors in the brain and body and blocking pain signals. This class of drugs is highly effective in pain management because they prevent your brain from registering that the pain exists.
Pretty amazing, right?
Hydrocodone and oxycodone are two such drugs. And while they are prescribed by doctors, it’s possible to get addicted to these powerful medications.
But which is stronger, hydrocodone or oxycodone? Keep reading to find out.
Hydrocodone
Hydrocodone is a prescription painkiller for moderate to severe pain. A doctor may prescribe hydrocodone for a chronic pain condition like severe arthritis or certain types of cancer. They might also prescribe it as part of a post-surgery treatment regimen.
Hydrocodone slows down the body’s central nervous system. It can affect breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure – which is why it should only be taken as prescribed by a medical professional.
Hydrocodone dosage depends on the patient and his or her situation. A patient may take hydrocodone extended-release capsules once every 12 hours. Some of the extended-release tablets are prescribed to be taken once daily.
Always talk to your doctor if you have questions about your medication regimen.
As with other opioids, hydrocodone can cause side effects. The side effects of hydrocodone may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Itching
- Headache
- Sleepiness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
Research shows that hydrocodone can be an effective short-term pain relief method but it loses effectiveness over time. As the body becomes used to the effects of the drug, the same dose does not produce the same results.
Taking any type of opioid, including hydrocodone, can lead to addiction. Only take medication that is prescribed by a medical professional. If you think you may be addicted to hydrocodone, seek help.
Oxycodone
Much like hydrocodone, oxycodone is a prescription painkiller in the opioid family. It is prescribed for moderate to severe pain.
Oxycodone is usually prescribed to be taken once every 4 to 6 hours for pain. The oxycodone dosage depends on the individual’s condition and other personal factors such as size.
The side effects of hydrocodone vs oxycodone are similar. Some of the side effects of oxycodone include:
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
If you experience serious side effects while taking oxycodone, talk to your doctor right away. And if you think you may have an addiction to oxycodone, look for resources that can help you.
Differences Between Hydrocodone and Oxycodone
Generally, these two drugs are pretty similar. They are both prescribed for moderate to severe pain. Both drugs work by interacting with the human central nervous system.
When a person takes opioids there are proteins that attach to opioid receptors. The opioid receptors are located on nerve cells in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body. The opioids have compounds that prevent pain messages from reaching the brain.
Opioids do not cure pain or treat illness. They trick the brain into not recognizing the pain. This is partially why opioids like hydrocodone and oxycodone are not usually prescribed for long-term use.
Both hydrocodone and oxycodone have the ability to make a person feel “high” – which is why they are such dangerous drugs. Doctors prescribing opioids for pain might choose between these drugs based on the individual situation.
So, now you know a bit more about hydrocodone and oxycodone, so it’s time to address which one is stronger. Keep reading.
Which is Stronger Hydrocodone or Oxycodone?
Hydrocodone and oxycodone are both schedule II drugs. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in the United States classifies different drugs. Schedule II drugs have a high risk for abuse and addiction which is why they are both heavily regulated.
Both drugs effectively treat pain. And most research suggests that are equally effective. However, oxycodone strength is considered stronger than hydrocodone strength.
In some cases, doctors will prescribe hydrocodone or oxycodone along with another over-the-counter painkiller like acetaminophen. The combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen is stronger and potentially more effective than hydrocodone and acetaminophen.
If you have questions about which medication is right for you, talk to your doctor.
Signs of Addiction
The United States has a huge problem with opioid addiction. Over 70,000 people died from a drug overdose and 1.6 million people had an opioid use disorder in 2019.
Drugs like hydrocodone and oxycodone are contributing to serious addiction problems.
Some of the side effects of hydrocodone addiction include:
- Slower heartbeat
- Slower breathing
- Dizziness/lightheadedness
- Nausea/vomiting
- Depression
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Drowsiness
- Muscle weakness
If you are experiencing these symptoms, talk to a medical professional right away because you may have a problem. Getting the help you need for your addiction could save your life.
Some of the side effects of oxycodone addiction include:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea/vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Trouble sleeping
- Depression
If you experience these symptoms, talk to a medical professional. Some of these could be normal side effects from the medication but others may be signs of an oxycodone misuse disorder.
Misuse and addiction may have other physical signs or behavioral signs. Signs of opioid addiction include:
- Inability to control opioid use
- Uncontrollable cravings
- Drowsiness
- Changes in sleep
- Weight loss
- Frequent flu-like symptoms
- Decreased libido
- Lack of hygiene
- Changes in exercise habits
- Isolation from family or friends
- Stealing from family or friends
- New financial difficulties
Have you experienced any of these things? Consider our detox program to start your journey towards recovery. It’s a powerful way to cleanse your body of harmful substances and free yourself from dependence on opioids.
Your Health and Safety are In Your Hands
So, which is stronger hydrocodone or oxycodone? The truth is that they are both powerful and effective pain treatments. And even though oxycodone is the more powerful medication, they can both be dangerous when not taken as prescribed.
Talk to your doctor about your treatment plan and the risks of addiction. Follow all medical advice. You can protect your health and safety by knowing the risks and signs of opioid addiction.
If you think you have a problem with hydrocodone or oxycodone, contact us today. We are here to help.