The Difference Between Hydrocodone and Oxycodone
In This Article
If you've been managing moderate to severe pain, you might have come across hydrocodone and oxycodone. These are two commonly prescribed medications that belong to a group called opioid pain relievers.
They work by easing pain signals in your brain and spinal cord. Both are classified as strong pain medications with a risk of abuse, but their availability and uses can vary.
This article aims to explain the differences between hydrocodone and oxycodone so you and your doctor can make informed decisions about your pain management plan.
What Is Hydrocodone and Oxycodone?
Hydrocodone and oxycodone are opioid pain relievers. They work by calming your nervous system's pain signals.
Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid derived from codeine. It’s commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain and suppress cough. To enhance its pain-relieving effects, hydrocodone is often combined with other medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Oxycodone is also a semi-synthetic opioid, but it is derived from thebaine, another component of the poppy plant. It manages moderate to severe pain and is available in immediate and extended-release formulations.
Differences Between Hydrocodone and Oxycodone
Hydrocodone and oxycodone are often prescribed for pain management in cases where other pain relievers are not effective. They can be used for acute pain following surgery or injury as well as for chronic pain conditions such as cancer or arthritis.
Both drugs inhibit the transmission of pain signals and effectively reduce pain perception. They can produce feelings of euphoria, which contributes to their potential for abuse and addiction.
Both medications are classified as Schedule II controlled substances, indicating a high potential for abuse and dependence. Due to their powerful effects and risk of addiction, they should only be taken under the strict supervision of a healthcare provider.
When it comes to their differences, we created a table to show them:
| Oxycodone | Hydrocodone | |
| Pain Relief Strength | About 1.5 times stronger than hydrocodone | Requires a higher dose for equivalent pain relief |
| Addiction Potential | High potential for addiction; possibly higher due to potency and user "likability" | High potential for addiction, but slightly lower than oxycodone |
| Side Effects | Constipation, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth. More likely to cause constipation. | Constipation, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth. More likely to cause tiredness. |
| Legal Status | Prescription medication; is often prescribed as a single-agent formulation, which may influence a higher potential for abuse | Prescription medication, typically available in combination with non-opioid analgesics like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, potentially reducing abuse potential |
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How to Manage Hydrocodone and Oxycodone Safely?
If you've been prescribed hydrocodone or oxycodone, it's important to use them safely to minimize risks. Here's what you can do:
- Only take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Keep the medications to yourself. These are powerful medications and can be addictive, so never share them with anyone.
- Combining opioids with alcohol or other drugs can be very dangerous.
- If you haven't taken your medication for a while, consult your doctor before restarting to see if your tolerance has changed.
- Don't take opioids alone. Have someone nearby in case of side effects.
In case of improper use of either hydrocodone or oxycodone that may lead to dependence or addiction, here are several resources available to provide support and treatment:
- SAMHSA National Helpline: A 24-hour, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service for people and families facing mental and substance use disorders. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
- FindTreatment.gov: A locator for state-licensed providers specializing in treating substance use disorders and mental illness.
- Buprenorphine Practitioner Locator: Find practitioners authorized to treat opioid dependency with buprenorphine by state.
- Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs): SAMHSA-certified programs that provide medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for OUD, including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
- Support Groups: Organizations such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and SMART Recovery offer support groups and counseling services to help individuals recover from addiction.
- Naloxone Distribution: Naloxone (Narcan) is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. It is available through many non-profit organizations, pharmacies, and healthcare providers.
While both hydrocodone and oxycodone offer effective pain relief, their strengths, potential for addiction, and side effect profiles differ.
By understanding these nuances and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can make informed decisions about managing your pain safely and effectively.
Remember, pain management is a journey, and finding the right approach often requires collaboration and ongoing communication with your doctor.
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- Marco C. A., et al. “Comparison of Oxycodone and Hydrocodone for the Treatment of Acute Pain Associated with Fractures: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial.” Academic Emergency Medicine, 2005.
- Moradi, M., et al. “Use of Oxycodone in Pain Management.” Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, 2011.
- “Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen.” StatPearls Publishing, 2024.
- “Oxycodone.” StatPearls Publishing, 2024.
- “Oxycodone.” Drug Enforcement Agency, 2020.
- Coates, S. and Lazarus, P. “Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, and Morphine Metabolism and Drug–Drug Interactions.” The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 2020.
