Oxycodone vs. Hydrocodone
Legacy Healing Center Blog
As they’ve contributed to addiction throughout the country, prescription opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone are currently a very significant topic of discussion in the U.S. At Legacy Healing’s rehabilitation center, we are here to help those battling prescription opioid addiction. We want to give you an in-depth look at oxycodone vs. hydrocodone throughout this reading.
Oxycodone and hydrocodone are two commonly prescribed opioid pain medications often used to treat severe pain. While these medications are similar in many ways, there are also some important differences that individuals should be aware of when considering treatment options.
What Is the Difference Between Oxycodone and Hydrocodone?
Even though oxycodone and hydrocodone are similar, they are not the same. Oxycodone is a powerful opioid pain medication commonly used to treat severe pain caused by surgery, injury, or medical conditions such as cancer. Oxycodone works by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which helps reduce pain sensation. It is combined with thebaine to produce chemical reactions that give it pain-relieving properties.
Hydrocodone is also an opioid pain medication commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is created in labs but synthesized from the poppy plant. Like oxycodone, hydrocodone works by binding specific brain and spinal cord receptors to reduce pain sensation.
A significant difference between hydrocodone use and oxycodone use is the side effects. Tiredness is a more common effect of taking hydrocodone, and constipation is more of a common effect of taking oxycodone.
Is Oxycodone Stronger Than Hydrocodone?
One of the primary differences between oxycodone and hydrocodone is their strength. Oxycodone is generally considered a stronger pain medication than hydrocodone. It is often used to treat more severe pain. Hydrocodone is generally considered less potent than oxycodone and is often used to treat less severe pain.
Another difference between oxycodone and hydrocodone is their duration of action. Oxycodone is a short-acting medication, which means it begins to work quickly. However, its effects do not last very long. Hydrocodone, on the other hand, is a long-acting medication, meaning it takes longer to begin working, but its effects can last several hours.
Battling Addiction to Oxycodone or Hydrocodone
Because of their potential for abuse and addiction, oxycodone and hydrocodone are tightly regulated. They can only be obtained with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Individuals prescribed these medications should take them only as directed and never share their medication with others.
Legacy Healing Center Is Here to Help
For an individual who is struggling with opioid addiction, there are various treatment options available. One common approach is medication-assisted treatment, which involves using medication to help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Another form of therapy we provide to help treat this battle of addiction to prescription opioids is cognitive behavioral therapy. At Legacy Healing Centers, we are here to help you, or a loved one, regain their life and achieve complete sobriety.
To learn more about our treatment center, contact us today and speak with one of our trained intake specialists.
Related Readings:
Common Signs of Drug Addiction
Understanding Drug Classifications – Strongest to Weakest
