Millions of people in the United States take prescription drugs to treat or manage a mental health or medical condition. Some prescription medications have the potential for misuse and addiction. It is essential to be aware of the risk of abuse and addiction and take all medications as prescribed.

Opioids are some of the most addictive prescription drugs available. While doctors typically limit the time people take these medications, people can still develop addiction to them. People may experience symptoms of addiction, including tolerance, cravings, and withdrawal symptoms, even when using opioids as prescribed.

Hydrocodone and Oxycodone are two of the most commonly prescribed opioids in the United States. While these prescription opioids have some similarities, there are some critical differences between the two.

This article will explore the difference between hydrocodone and oxycodone.

If you or someone you love struggle with opioid abuse or addiction, effective treatment is available at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team now to explore your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Hydrocodone?

Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid painkiller. Doctors may prescribe hydrocodone for patients with moderate to severe pain. People may take hydrocodone to manage acute pain after surgery or to reduce chronic pain from a medical condition.

Hydrocodone slows down central nervous system (CNS) activity. It works by binding to receptors in areas of the brain responsible for pain control, emotional regulation, and pleasure.

In addition to pain relief, users may experience other side effects, including:

• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constricted pupils
• Itching
• Anxiety
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth

Some people also experience euphoria and relaxation while taking hydrocodone. People may like the way they feel while taking hydrocodone, which can lead to misusing it. Hydrocodone misuse includes:

• Taking a larger dose than prescribed
• Taking it more often than prescribed
• Long-term hydrocodone use against medical advice
• Using hydrocodone differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
• Using hydrocodone recreationally (without a prescription)

Hydrocodone abuse and addiction can cause short and long-term health complications. People taking hydrocodone to treat pain may develop symptoms of addiction in a short period. It is important to watch for signs of addiction and seek treatment as soon as you recognize a problem.

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What is Oxycodone?

Oxycodone is an opioid pain reliever that blocks pain signals between the body and brain. It reduces pain sensations and activates systems in the body that manage pain.

Doctors may prescribe oxycodone to help people manage moderate to severe pain. While taking it, people may experience side effects that include:

• Constricted pupils
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Flushing
• Itching
• Excessive sweating
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Mood changes
• Drowsiness

Oxycodone is very potent and highly addictive. People may abuse oxycodone and become addicted to it in a short period.

The risk of overdose is high for people who abuse oxycodone. Signs of an oxycodone overdose include:

• Slurred speech
• Disorientation or confusion
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Cold, clammy skin
• Depressed (slow and shallow) breathing
• Blue lips or skin

An oxycodone overdose is a life-threatening medical emergency. If someone near you is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. Administer Narcan (naloxone) if it is available and remain with the person until EMS arrives.

People may develop an oxycodone dependence after just a short period of abuse. Watch for signs of opioid abuse and seek treatment as soon as you recognize a problem.

The Differences Between Hydrocodone and Oxycodone

Hydrocodone and oxycodone are similar in many ways. They are both opioid medications, meaning that they are derived from the opium poppy plant. Both drugs are prescription pain relievers that work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. Both can have serious risks and side effects, and both have a high risk of addiction.

However, there are some important differences between oxycodone and hydrocodone. First, oxycodone is more potent than hydrocodone. People who abuse oxycodone are also at greater risk of a deadly overdose because of its potency.

Next, these drugs have different side effects. One of the most common side effects of hydrocodone is drowsiness. People who take oxycodone are more likely to experience constipation.

Finally, there is a difference between these drugs when it comes to the likelihood of addiction. People who take oxycodone may be more likely to abuse it. Oxycodone’s powerful effects give it a higher potential for drug abuse, which can quickly lead to physical dependence and addiction.

Oxycodone and hydrocodone are Schedule II drugs, meaning both have a high potential for misuse and addiction. Misusing hydrocodone and oxycodone can be incredibly dangerous. It is important to watch for signs of opioid abuse or addiction and seek treatment as quickly as possible.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love needs treatment for opioid abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake assessment.

References:

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Opioids
2. National Institute of Health (NIH): Hydrocodone
3. The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics: Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, and Morphine Metabolism and Drug–Drug Interactions
4. National Institute of Health (NIH): Preclinical and Clinical Pharmacology of Hydrocodone for Chronic Pain: A Mini Review
5. NIH: Oxycodone