Hydrocodone vs. Oxycodone: Understanding the Difference

 

Navigating the world of pain management can be complex, particularly when it comes to distinguishing between the many different drugs available. Consider two commonly prescribed opioids: hydrocodone and oxycodone. Both medications are potent tools for treating severe pain, but they aren’t identical. Let’s delve into the critical aspects of hydrocodone vs. oxycodone, providing clarity for anyone taking or handling these powerful painkillers.

What Is Hydrocodone?

Hydrocodone is an opioid painkiller often prescribed for moderate to severe discomfort. It works by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain, both altering the perception of pain and muffling emotional responses to it, which can provide significant pain relief and a feeling of euphoria.

Hydrocodone is typically used in combination with other pain relievers such as acetaminophen (in medications like Vicodin) or ibuprofen. This multifaceted approach enhances hydrocodone’s effectiveness without having to up the dosage too much — an effort to curb its potential for abuse.

What Is Oxycodone?

Oxycodone, another powerful opioid, is also commonly prescribed to manage moderate to severe pain.  It works similarly to hydrocodone by affecting the central nervous system to change the body’s response to pain. However, oxycodone is available both in combination with other pain relievers and as a single-ingredient medication

Hydrocodone vs. Oxycodone

Hydrocodone and oxycodone are both strong opioid drugs, but that’s just the beginning of their story. These two drugs have much more in common — and some significant differences.

Similarities

Hydrocodone and oxycodone share many characteristics. Both are classified as Schedule II drugs in the United States, indicating a high potential for abuse that may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. Clinically, they are both prescribed to treat similar types of pain, from acute injury-related pain to chronic pain conditions. They also share common side effects, including:

• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Constipation

In more severe cases, both drugs can also cause a decreased breathing rate.

Differences

While both drugs are similar in their pain-relieving effects, there are subtle differences in their pharmacological makeup and side effects. Hydrocodone is more likely to cause constipation and stomach pain, whereas oxycodone may result in increased sweating and loss of appetite. Additionally, oxycodone is generally considered more potent than hydrocodone, which may influence a doctor’s decision on which medication to prescribe based on the intensity of the pain.

Which Drug Is Stronger?

When compared in the same amounts or combinations, studies suggest that oxycodone is stronger than hydrocodone. This means that oxycodone can provide pain relief at a lower dose compared to hydrocodone, which can be a critical factor in scenarios where pain management needs to be finely tuned.

This is an important consideration for healthcare providers when deciding on the most appropriate opioid for their patients, especially those who may have developed a tolerance to less potent opioids or those who require more immediate and intense pain relief.

Which Drug Is More Dangerous?

Both hydrocodone and oxycodone carry a high risk of addiction and overdose, which can be fatal if not managed correctly. The danger increases significantly when these drugs are taken in too-large doses or in ways they’re not prescribed, such as crushing pills to snort or inject. 

Because of its potency, oxycodone is sometimes associated with a higher risk of overdose, especially if taken without medical supervision or mixed with other substances like alcohol. However, the risk of adverse effects or overdose does not dramatically differ between the two when used as directed under medical supervision.

Hydrocodone vs. Oxycodone: Recreational Misuse

Sometimes, hydrocodone and oxycodone are misused recreationally for their powerful euphoric effects and ability to produce profound feelings of relaxation and well-being. Often, these drugs are misused by either crushing the pills to snort or inject the powder. This bypasses the time-release mechanism designed to deliver the drug slowly and safely into the system, leading to a rapid and intense high.

However, such misuse also increases the risk of overdose and death, especially when combined with other substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines. On top of their regular side effects, both hydrocodone and oxycodone carry serious risks when used recreationally — including dependency, overdose, and a range of negative physical health effects, from liver damage to breathing difficulties.

Illicit Hydros and Oxy

While these opioids are tightly regulated, individuals may acquire hydrocodone and oxycodone through prescription fraud — such as scamming pills from multiple doctors simultaneously, forging false prescriptions, or altering legitimate prescriptions to get additional pills. Theft from homes, pharmacies, or hospitals is another common method.

Further access can be found through so-called “pill mills” or illegal internet sales, which prescribe opioids illegitimately. Additionally, street dealers and personal acquaintances with legitimate prescriptions might sell or share these drugs. These practices not only fuel the opioid crisis but also increase risks associated with unregulated use, including overdose and death.

Practicing Pain Pill Safety

The key to using these medications safely lies in strict adherence to prescribed dosages and schedules. Patients should be monitored regularly for signs of dependency or adverse reactions, and both patient and practitioner should be vigilant about the potential for abuse. It’s also crucial for patients to communicate openly with their healthcare provider about their pain management needs and any side effects they experience.

Get Answers with Countrywide Testing

Understanding the nuances between hydrocodone and oxycodone is essential for anyone involved in pain management, whether on the giving or receiving end of care. By respecting the potency and risks associated with these opioids, practitioners and patients can work together to achieve effective and safe pain management outcomes.

Unfortunately, not everyone uses pain pills responsibly. If you think that a friend or loved one may be misusing prescription drugs like hydrocodone and oxycodone, Countrywide Testing can provide the answers you need. We offer discreet, at-home alcohol and drug testing kits that will help you confirm a loved one's substance use and help get them started on the road to recovery.

Countrywide offers an array of drug testing products for workplace testing, healthcare emergencies, law enforcement purposes, and individuals trying to stay clean after rehab. Our test kits are convenient, affordable, and ship to you quickly. Plus, our lab is accredited by SAMHSA, so you can rest assured your test results are handled in accordance with the highest industry standards.

Want more information on how Countrywide can support a cleaner, safer lifestyle? Just contact our team today.