What is the Difference Between Oxycodone and Hydrocodone?

Oxycodone and hydrocodone are both Schedule II semi-synthetic opioids prescribed to relieve moderate to severe pain. They are chemically similar and work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain to disrupt pain signals. However, there are some differences between the two:

1. Potency: Oxycodone is more potent than hydrocodone, meaning it takes less oxycodone to produce the same effects as hydrocodone.
2. Abuse potential: Oxycodone is more likely to be abused than hydrocodone due to its stronger effects, and it has a higher risk of overdose.
3. Side effects: Hydrocodone is more likely to cause tiredness, while oxycodone is more likely to cause constipation. Both drugs have similar side effects, such as dry mouth, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, changes in heartbeat, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, and tongue, and trouble breathing or swallowing.
4. Dosage: The actual effects of hydrocodone and oxycodone are influenced more by a person's substance use, weight, the release form (e.g., instant-release tablets vs. time-release tablets), and the dosage, rather than a strict difference between the two.

Both hydrocodone and oxycodone are highly addictive and should only be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. It is crucial to follow a doctor's instructions for taking either medication to treat pain and avoid developing a substance use disorder.

Comparative Table: Oxycodone vs Hydrocodone

Oxycodone and hydrocodone are both Schedule II prescription opioid pain relievers, but they have some differences in terms of potency, side effects, and the duration of their long-acting forms. Here is a table comparing the two drugs:

Both drugs are effective in treating mild to severe pain, but oxycodone is considered slightly stronger than hydrocodone. They are both classified as Schedule II drugs, which means they have a high potential for abuse and should be used only as prescribed by a healthcare provider.