Hydrocodone vs Oxycodone: What is the Difference?

Opioids are a class of drugs that depress the central nervous system and affect pain signals in the brain. They are prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain and chronic pain on a short-term basis.[1] Because of the potential for abuse and addiction, it is not recommended to use prescription opioids long-term.

There are many different types of opioid medications. Each of them is used as a pain reliever and requires a prescription from a doctor. Two of the most common prescription opioids include hydrocodone and oxycodone.

Hydrocodone and oxycodone share many similarities. They treat moderate to severe pain and are available by prescription only, and both pose a risk of substance abuse and addiction.

That said, there are many differences between the two drugs. Oxycodone is considered more potent than hydrocodone, which means it has a higher risk of addiction. Even further, they are prescribed at different dosages and often look different from one another.

In this article, you will learn:

How are Oxycodone and Hydrocodone Similar?

Hydrocodone and oxycodone are both semi-synthetic opioids. Doctors prescribe both of them to treat moderate to severe pain. They also share a high potential for substance abuse and addiction.

Another similarity between hydrocodone and oxycodone is their effects. They can cause you to feel euphoric, calm, and drowsy, which is why many people abuse them. Other common side effects caused by both drugs include:[2]

• Dry mouth
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness and drowsiness
• Confusion or sedation
• Loss of coordination
• Itchy skin
• Irregular heartbeat
• Slowed breathing

Both hydrocodone and oxycodone cause these side effects by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. They can also affect your mental health by increasing symptoms of depression. If you begin abusing an opioid, you should consider your treatment options and attend a drug rehab program.

What are the Differences Between Oxycodone and Hydrocodone?

While oxycodone and hydrocodone have many similarities, they are different drugs.

The differences between hydrocodone and oxycodone include:

• Potency – Oxycodone is considered to be more potent than hydrocodone.

• Dosaging – Hydrocodone comes in 2.5 to 5 mg tablets. On the other hand, oxycodone is prescribed in 10 to 30 mg tablets. Both have immediate or extended-release tablets.

• Side Effects – While oxycodone and hydrocodone cause the same side effects, they are considered to be more severe when you are taking oxycodone.

• Appearance – Hydrocodone comes in white capsules with orange specks, while oxycodone varies in color based on dosage and has the letters “OC” printed on one side with the dosage number on the other.

• Ingredients – Oxycodone usually only contains oxycodone. However, hydrocodone is usually prescribed with acetaminophen as well.

If you are taking hydrocodone or oxycodone for pain relief, make sure to follow your prescription closely. Taking too high of a dose could result in an addictive high or a life-threatening overdose. Addiction to opioids can be incredibly difficult to overcome, making it vital that you attend a drug rehab center.

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What are the Signs of Opioid Addiction?

Taking hydrocodone or oxycodone long-term could result in the development of a substance use disorder. Knowing the signs of addiction can help you determine whether it’s time to seek professional treatment.

The signs of opioid addiction include:[3]

• Running out of prescriptions for opioids early
• Going to multiple doctors to receive more than one prescription at a time
• Having a hard time controlling how much opioids you use or how often
• Experiencing urges or cravings to abuse opioids
• Using opioids to get high instead of treating pain
• Mixing opioids with other substances like alcohol to increase your effects
• Wanting to quit using opioids but being unsuccessful
• Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities to have more time to abuse opioids
• Having a hard time keeping up with responsibilities at home, school, or work
• Continuing to use opioids despite facing social or interpersonal relationship issues
• Being unable to stop using opioids even though they are causing adverse physical or mental health effects
• Using opioids in risky situations, such as while driving
• Needing to increase the dose of opioids you use to experience the desired effect
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop using opioids

While opioid addiction can negatively impact every area of your life, addiction treatment makes it possible for you to recover. These programs offer medical detox to treat withdrawal symptoms, evidence-based behavioral therapy, and relapse prevention planning. During treatment, you will uncover and address the root causes of your addiction, making it possible to stay sober long-term.

Find Help for Opioid Abuse and Addiction

If you or a loved one suffers from opioid addiction, it’s time to seek help. PAX Memphis can connect you with a treatment program that offers individualized treatment plans to help you recover from the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of addiction. Additionally, our affiliated rehab programs use evidence-based treatment methods, ensuring that you receive the type of support you need to maintain long-term sobriety.

Contact PAX Memphis today to get connected with a top-rated opioid addiction treatment center in your area.

References:

1. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Prescription Opioids 
2. The National Library of Medicine (NLM): Opioid complications and side effects
3. Yale Medicine: Opioid Use Disorder
4. National Institute of Health (NIH): Comparison of oxycodone and hydrocodone for the treatment of acute pain associated with fractures: a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial