Oxycodone vs. Hydrocodone for Pain Relief

• Comparison
• Side effects
• Warnings
• Choosing

A side-by-side review

oxycodone vs hydrocodone? Oxycodone and hydrocodone are prescription pain medications. Both can treat short-term pain caused by an injury or surgery. They may also be used to treat pain that is chronic, or long-term. Additionally, each may also be prescribed to treat other conditions, including chronic cough, pain from cancer, and arthritis.

Both types of medication can be taken alone. You may also find combination versions of each drug. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

For example, acetaminophen, another type of painkiller, may be added to oxycodone to make a specific narcotic analgesic. This type of combination medication can calm a person’s mood, which gives the painkiller time to work.

Hydrocodone is often combined with antihistamines to create a syrup that suppresses the cough reflex and provides relief from pain associated with coughing. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

oxycodone vs hydrocodone? Oxycodone and hydrocodone

Oxycodone and hydrocodone are powerful narcotic painkillers. Both are available only with a prescription from your doctor. Both interfere with your central nervous system’s pain signals. They prevent the nerves in your body from sending pain signals to your brain.

The differences between the two are primarily in the side effects they cause.

Who they’re for

Oxycodone is used to treat moderate to severe pain. People who take the medication usually do so on an around-the-clock basis until the doctor ends their prescription or tells them to stop taking it. In other words, oxycodone shouldn’t be taken on an as-needed basis the way you would take over-the-counter painkillers.

Hydrocodone is also used to treat moderate to severe pain caused by a chronic condition, injury, or surgery. Like oxycodone, it should only be taken as prescribed by your doctor. This is important because of the risk of addiction. Perhaps because of the way it’s prescribed, hydrocodone appears more likely to cause dependency than oxycodone. It’s misused more than any other opioid in the United States. In many European countries, hydrocodone has been highly restricted for many years.

Drug class and how that class works

Until the fall of 2014, hydrocodone and oxycodone were in two different drug schedules. A drug schedule is a number that is assigned to a medicine, chemical, or substance. The schedule number indicates the likelihood the substance could be misused, as well as the drug’s accepted medical use. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Today, both hydrocodone and oxycodone are schedule II drugs. Schedule II drugs have a high potential for being misused.

Forms and dosing

Frequently, both oxycodone and hydrocodone are combined with other painkillers or chemicals. Pure oxycodone is available in a brand name drug called Oxycontin.

You take Oxycontin tablets orally usually every 12 hours. The tablets come in several different doses. The dose you use depends on the severity of your pain.

Pure hydrocodone is available in an extended-release form, which is designed to release into your body slowly, not all at once. This allows the medication to work over a long period of time. The brand name for this drug is Zohydro ER. You can take a capsule orally every 12 hours. This medication can be used to treat long-term pain problems. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Effectiveness

Both oxycodone and hydrocodone are powerful painkillers, and they’ve been shown to be highly effective at treating pain.

In the event of an emergency situation, researchers have found the two medications treat pain equally. In a studyTrusted Source with both drugs, researchers found that both oxycodone and hydrocodone were equally effective at treating pain caused by fractures. Participants experienced equal pain relief 30 and 60 minutes after the medication was taken. However, those who were given hydrocodone experienced constipation more frequently than participants who used oxycodone.

Another studyTrusted Source found that the combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen was 1.5 times more potent than hydrocodone with acetaminophen when taken at equal doses.

Cost

Both oxycodone and hydrocodone are sold as brand-name drugs and as generic alternatives. Generic medications are cheaper than their brand-name counterparts. For that reason, you may wish to try the generic versions.

Before you do that, consult your doctor. Some generic versions of medications have different ratios of active and inactive ingredients. To be classified as generic by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the drug must include the same strength of active ingredients, but may not have the same amount of inactive ingredients.

If you need to use the brand name but find that the price tag is too high, prescription drug insurance and prescription coupons may help reduce your total cost. Talk with your pharmacist about the savings you’re eligible to receive.

Side effects of these medications

The most common side effects of oxycodone and hydrocodone are similar. These side effects include:

• shallow or light breathing
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• nausea
• vomiting
• lethargy
• dry mouth
• itching
• motor skill impairment

Oxycodone is more likely to cause side effects of dizziness and drowsiness, as well as fatigue, headaches, and feelings of euphoria. Hydrocodone is more likely to cause constipation and stomach pain.

Severe, though less common, side effects include:

• seizures
• feeling like you might pass out
• rapid heartbeat (leading to a possible heart failure)
• painful urination
• confusion

Warnings and interactions

Don’t use these powerful pain medications without first consulting with your doctor about your health history and any preexisting conditions you have.

People who have asthma or breathing difficulties may need to avoid these pain medications entirely. Also, because of the risk of increased constipation, people who have blockages or difficulty with constipation may not want to take oxycodone or hydrocodone.

Don’t take these medications if you have kidney or liver disease. These drugs can make these conditions worse. Additionally, don’t drink alcohol while taking these medications. The combination of alcohol and painkillers can cause extreme dizziness or drowsiness. The combination can also damage your liver.

If you’re pregnant, talk with your doctor about the risks of these medications while you’re expecting. A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that there was an association between opioid treatment and certain birth defects. Also, some of the side effects of the medication could cause problems for you while you are pregnant. These side effects include behavior changes, difficulty breathing, constipation, and lightheadedness.

If you are breastfeeding, don’t take these medications. They can pass through breast milk and harm your baby.

Even at low levels and when taken exactly as prescribed, these medications can be habit-forming. Misuse of these narcotics can lead to addiction, poisoning, overdose, or even death.

Don’t leave these pills in a place where children could reach them.

Which medication is best for you?

Both hydrocodone and oxycodone are effective at easing acute and chronic pain. They both cause very similar side effects. The differences between the two drugs are minimal, so the best way to pick which drug is right for you is by having a conversation with your doctor.

Based on your personal medical history, your doctor can weigh the pros and cons of the two medications. Some researchers and medical professionals find that hydrocodone is less powerful compared to oxycodone. In that case, your doctor may prefer to start you on a smaller dose to see how your body handles the medication.

If the first option you try doesn’t work or causes adverse side effects, you and your doctor can talk about changing medications or doses to find something that works for you.

Last medically reviewed on December 6, 2017

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26 Commonly Used Opioid Medications

• Forms of opioids
• Opioid-only products
• Combination products
• Products for other uses
• Considerations
• Safe use
• Takeaway

Introduction

The first opioid medication, morphine, was created in 1803. Since then, many different opioids have come onto the market. Some are also added to products made for more specific uses, such as treating a cough.

Currently in the United States many opioid-only and opioid combination drugs are used to treat acute and chronic pain when other medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, aren’t strong enough. Certain types are also used in the treatment of opioid use disorders.

Forms of opioids

Opioid products come in many forms. They differ in how you take them as well as how long they take to start working and how long they keep working. Most of these forms can be taken without assistance. Others, such injectable forms, have to be given by a healthcare professional.

Immediate-release products start to work quickly after you take them, but they’re effective for shorter periods. Extended-release products release the drugs over longer periods. Products are generally considered immediate-release unless they’re labeled otherwise.

Immediate-release opioids are used to treat acute and chronic pain. Extended-release opioids are typically only used to treat chronic pain when immediate-release opioids are no longer enough.

If your doctor prescribes extended-release opioids to you, they may also give you immediate-release opioids to treat breakthrough pain, particularly for cancer pain or pain during end-of-life care.

List of opioid-only products

These products contain only opioids:

Buprenorphine

This drug is a long-acting opioid. Generic buprenorphine comes in a sublingual tablet, transdermal patch, and injectable solution. The generic and brand-name injectable solutions are only given by a healthcare provider.

Examples of brand-name buprenorphine products include:

• Belbuca, a buccal film
• Probuphine, an intradermal implant
• Butrans, a transdermal patch
• Buprenex, an injectable solution

Some forms are used for chronic pain that requires around-the-clock treatment. Other forms of buprenorphine are available to treat opioid dependence.

Butorphanol

Butorphanol is only available as a generic drug. It comes in a nasal spray. It’s an immediate-release product and typically used for acute pain. Butorphanol is also available in an injectable solution that must be given by a healthcare provider.

Codeine sulfate

Codeine sulfate is only available as a generic drug. It comes in an immediate-release oral tablet. Codeine sulfate isn’t commonly used for pain. When it is, it’s typically used for mild to moderate acute pain.

Fentanyl

Generic fentanyl comes in oral lozenges, extended-release transdermal patches, and an injectable solution that’s only given by a healthcare provider. Brand-name fentanyl products include:

• Fentora, a buccal tablet
• Actiq, an oral lozenge
• Lazanda, a nasal spray
• Abstral, a sublingual tablet
• Subsys, a sublingual spray
• Duragesic, an extended-release transdermal patch

The transdermal patch is used for chronic pain in people who need around-the-clock treatment and who already regularly use opioid pain medications.

The other products are used for breakthrough pain in people who already receive around-the-clock opioids for cancer pain.

Hydrocodone bitartrate

Hydrocodone bitartrate, as a single ingredient, is available as the following brand-name products:

• Zohydro ER, an extended-release oral capsule
• Hysingla ER, an extended-release oral tablet
• Vantrela ER, an extended-release oral tablet

It’s used for chronic pain in people who need around-the-clock treatment. However, it’s not commonly used.

Hydromorphone

Generic hydromorphone comes in an oral solution, oral tablet, extended-release oral tablet, and rectal suppository. It’s also available in an injectable solution given by a healthcare provider.

Brand-name hydromorphone products include:

• Dilaudid, an oral solution or oral tablet
• Exalgo, an extended-release oral tablet

The extended-release products are used for chronic pain in people who need around-the-clock treatment. The immediate-release products are used for both acute and chronic pain.

Levorphanol tartrate

Levorphanol is only available as a generic drug. It comes in an oral tablet. It’s typically used for moderate to severe acute pain.

Meperidine hydrochloride

This drug is typically used for moderate to severe acute pain. It’s available as a generic drug and as the brand-name drug Demerol. Generic versions are available in an oral solution or oral tablet. Both are also available in an injectable solution that’s given by a healthcare provider.

Methadone hydrochloride

Methadone hydrochloride is available as a generic drug and the brand-name drug Dolophine. It’s used for chronic pain in people who need around-the-clock treatment.

The generic version is available in an oral tablet, oral solution, and oral suspension. It’s also available in an injectable solution given by a healthcare provider. Dolophine is only available in an oral tablet.

Morphine sulfate

Generic morphine sulfate is available in an extended-release oral capsule, oral solution, oral tablet, extended-release oral tablet, rectal suppository, and solution for injection.

It also comes in an opium tinctureTrusted Source, which is dried opium poppy latex containing morphine and codeine that’s mixed with alcohol. This form is used to reduce the number and frequency of bowel movements and can treat diarrhea in certain cases.

Brand-name morphine sulfate products include:

• Kadian, an extended-release oral capsule
• Arymo ER, an extended-release oral tablet
• MorphaBond, an extended-release oral tablet
• MS Contin, an extended-release oral tablet
• Astramorph PF, a solution for injection
• Duramorph, a solution for injection
• DepoDur, a suspension for injection

The extended-release products are used for chronic pain in people who need around-the-clock treatment. Immediate-release products are used for acute and chronic pain. Injectable products are only given by a healthcare provider.

Oxycodone

Some forms of oxycodone are available as generic drugs. Some are only available as brand-name drugs. Generic oxycodone comes in an oral capsule, oral solution, oral tablet, and extended-release oral tablet.

Brand-name versions include:

• Oxaydo, an oral tablet
• Roxicodone, an oral tablet
• Oxycontin, an extended-release oral tablet
• Xtampza, an extended-release oral capsule
• Roxybond, an oral tablet

The extended-release products are used for chronic pain in people who need around-the-clock treatment. The immediate-release products are used for acute and chronic pain.

Oxymorphone

Generic oxymorphone is available in an oral tablet and extended-release oral tablet. Brand-name oxymorphone is available as:

• Opana, an oral tablet
• Opana ER, an extended-release oral tablet or crush-resistant extended-release oral tablet

The extended-release tablets are used for chronic pain in people who need around-the-clock treatment.

However, in June 2017, the Food and Drug AdministrationTrusted Source requested that manufacturers of extended-release oxymorphone products discontinue these drugs. This was because they found that the benefit of taking this drug no longer outweighs the risk.

The immediate-release tablets are still used for acute and chronic pain.

Oxymorphone is also available in a form that’s injected into your body as the brand-name product Opana. It’s only given by a healthcare provider.

Tapentadol

Tapentadol is only available as the brand-name versions Nucynta and Nucynta ER. Nucynta is an oral tablet or oral solution used for both acute and chronic pain. Nucynta ER is an extended-release oral tablet used for chronic pain or severe pain caused by diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage) in people who need around-the-clock treatment.

Tramadol

Generic tramadol comes in an extended-release oral capsule, oral tablet, and extended-release oral tablet. Brand-name tramadol comes as:

• Conzip, an extended-release oral capsule
• EnovaRx, an external cream

The oral tablet is typically used for moderate to moderately severe acute pain. Extended-release products are used for chronic pain in people who need around-the-clock treatment. The external cream is used for musculoskeletal pain.https://inline.healthline.com/r/ssr/1b58a1fb-45cd-4549-86a5-cd41445f5c11?utm_campaign=hl-betterhelp-social-proof-substance-driver&utm_medium=embed&selector=%23m7e852df1-d764-4683-a402-261479e9ec47+%3E+div+%3E+div&csid=169b919d-ac8c-4ea3-a593-d3a89802c85e&caid=7f71b8cd-5037-41d3-b785-30531a657e1b&ciid=8a103bc9-de71-4abe-9f6d-d409c2251588&tenant=wk_1Tqf7EYzOKyxm4Gvq042rU0Uky0&srckey=src_1Tqf7BF96WTbG5QbUndHWIgKoFo&cxsid=f0e30d87-9c6e-4631-a8d5-38da29df1d38&imre=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaGVhbHRobGluZS5jb20vaGVhbHRoL3BhaW4tcmVsaWVmL294eWNvZG9uZS12cy1oeWRyb2NvZG9uZQ%3D%3D&_mfuuid_=f705aad8-d432-4c4b-9559-507abd46441d&width=750&subId=betterhelp_hl_mid_substanceuse_socialproofinline_37312

List of opioid combination products

The following products combine an opioid with other drugs. Similar to the opioid-only products, these drugs come in different forms and have different uses:

Acetaminophen-caffeine-dihydrocodeine

This drug is typically only used for moderate to moderately severe acute pain. Generic acetaminophen-caffeine-dihydrocodeine comes in an oral tablet and an oral capsule. The brand-name product Trezix comes in an oral capsule.

Acetaminophen-codeine

This drug is typically only used for mild to moderate acute pain. Generic acetaminophen-codeine comes in an oral tablet and an oral solution. Brand-name acetaminophen-codeine comes as:

• Capital and Codeine, an oral suspension
• Tylenol with Codeine No. 3, an oral tablet
• Tylenol with Codeine No. 4, an oral tablet

Aspirin-caffeine-dihydrocodeine

Aspirin-caffeine-dihydrocodeine is available as a generic and the brand-name drug Synalgos-DC. It comes in an oral capsule. It’s typically only used for moderate to moderately severe acute pain.

Hydrocodone-acetaminophen

This drug is typically used for moderate to moderately severe acute pain. Generic hydrocodone-acetaminophen comes in an oral tablet and oral solution. Brand-name versions include:

• Anexsia, an oral tablet
• Norco, an oral tablet
• Zyfrel, an oral solution

Hydrocodone-ibuprofen

Hydrocodone-ibuprofen is available as an oral tablet. It comes as a generic and the brand-name drugs Reprexain and Vicoprofen. It’s typically used for acute pain.

Morphine-naltrexone

Morphine-naltrexone is only available as the brand-name drug Embeda. It comes in an extended-release oral capsule. This drug is typically used for chronic pain in people who need around-the-clock treatment.

Oxycodone-acetaminophen

This drug is used for both acute and chronic pain. Generic oxycodone-acetaminophen is available as an oral solution and oral tablet. Brand-name versions include:

• Oxycet, an oral tablet
• Percocet, an oral tablet
• Roxicet, an oral solution
• Xartemis XR, an extended-release oral tablet

Oxycodone-aspirin

Oxycodone-aspirin is available as a generic and the brand-name drug Percodan. It comes as an oral tablet. It’s typically used for moderate to moderately severe acute pain.

Oxycodone-ibuprofen

Oxycodone-ibuprofen is only available as a generic drug. It comes in an oral tablet. It’s typically used for no more than seven days to treat short-term severe pain.

Oxycodone-naltrexone

Oxycodone-naltrexone is only available as the brand-name drug Troxyca ER. It comes in an extended-release oral capsule. It’s typically used for chronic pain in people who need around-the-clock treatment.

Pentazocine-naloxone

This product is only available as a generic drug. It comes in an oral tablet. It’s used for both acute and chronic pain.

Tramadol-acetaminophen

Tramadol-acetaminophen is available as a generic drug and the brand-name drug Ultracet. It comes in an oral tablet. This form is typically used for no longer than five days to treat short-term severe pain.

Opioids in products for uses other than pain

Some opioids can be used alone or in combination products to treat conditions other than acute and chronic pain. These drugs include:

• codeine
• hydrocodone
• buprenorphine
• methadone

For example, both codeine and hydrocodone are combined with other drugs in products that treat cough.

Buprenorphine (alone or combined with naloxone) and methadone are used in products to treat opioid use disorders.

Considerations for opioid use

There are many opioids and opioid combination products. They each have different treatment uses. It’s important to use the right opioid and use it correctly.

You and your doctor will need to consider many factors before selecting the best opioid product or products for your individual treatment. These factors include:

• the severity of your pain
• your pain treatment history
• other conditions you have
• other drugs you take
• your age
• whether you have a history of substance use disorders
• your health insurance coverage

Pain severity

Your doctor will consider how severe your pain is when recommending an opioid treatment. Some opioid medications are stronger than others.

Some combination products, such as codeine-acetaminophen, are only used for pain that’s mild to moderate. Others, such as hydrocodone-acetaminophen, are stronger and used for moderate to moderately severe pain.

Immediate-release opioid-only products are typically used for moderate to severe pain. Extended-release products are only meant to be used for severe pain that needs around-the-clock treatment after other medications haven’t worked.

Pain treatment history

Your doctor will consider if you already receive medication for your pain when recommending further treatment. Some opioid medications, such as fentanyl and methadone, are only appropriate in people who already take opioids and need long-term therapy.

Other conditions

Your kidneys remove some opioid medications from your body. If you have poor kidney function, you might have a higher risk for side effects from these drugs. These opioids include:

• codeine
• morphine
• hydromorphone
• hydrocodone
• oxymorphone
• meperidine

Drug interactions

Some drugs should be avoided or used with caution to avoid interactions with certain opioids. It’s important to let your doctor know about all medications you take so your doctor can select the safest opioid for you. This includes any over-the-counter products, supplements, and herbs.

Age

Not all opioid products are appropriate for all age groups.

Children younger than 12 years shouldn’t use products containing tramadol and codeine.

Additionally, these products shouldn’t be used in people between the ages of 12 and 18 years if they’re obese, have obstructive sleep apnea, or have severe lung disease.

History of substance misuse

It’s important to let your doctor know if you’ve had substance use issues. Some opioid products are formulated to reduce the risk of misuse. These products include:

• Targiniq ER
• Embeda
• Hysingla ER
• MorphaBond
• Xtampza ER
• Troxyca ER
• Arymo ER
• Vantrela ER
• RoxyBond

Insurance coverage

Individual insurance plans don’t cover all opioid products, but most plans cover some immediate-release and extended-release products. Generics generally cost less. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to help determine which product your insurance will cover.

Many insurance companies limit the amount of opioid product you can obtain each month. Your insurance company may also require a prior approval from your doctor before approving your prescription.

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Steps for safe use of opioids

Using opioids, even for short periods, can lead to addiction and overdose. There are a few steps you can take to use opioids safely:

• Tell your doctor about any history of substance misuse so they can carefully monitor you during treatment with opioids.
• Follow the directions on your prescription. Taking too much or taking a dose incorrectly (such as crushing pills before taking them) can lead to more side effects, including difficulty breathing and overdose.
• Talk to your doctor about what substances you should avoid while taking an opioid. Mixing opioids with alcohol, antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine), benzodiazepines (such as Xanax or Valium), muscle relaxants (such as Soma or Flexeril), or sleep aids (such as Ambien or Lunesta) can increase your risk for dangerously slowed breathing.
• Store your medication safely and out of reach of children. If you have any unused opioid pills, take them to a community drug take-back program.

Tolerance and withdrawal

Your body will become tolerant to the effects of opioids the longer you take them. This means that if you take them for longer periods, you may need higher and higher doses to get the same pain relief. It’s important to let your doctor know if this happens to you.

Opioids can also cause withdrawal if you suddenly stop them. It’s important to discuss with your doctor how to safely stop taking opioids. Some people may need to stop by slowly tapering off their use.

Takeaway

There are many opioids available to treat acute and chronic pain as well as more specific conditions. Some products may be more appropriate for you, so talk with your doctor to make sure they know about factors that could influence the treatment they recommend for you.

After starting an opioid product, make sure to see your doctor regularly and talk about any side effects or concerns you have. Because dependence can develop over time, also talk with your doctor about what to do if you feel it happening to you.

If you want to stop your opioid therapy, your doctor can work with you on a plan to safely stop taking them.https://inline.healthline.com/r/ssr/d46aaa37-ac9d-428d-a695-f6d095647e7d?utm_campaign=hl-mental-health-mpl&utm_medium=embed&selector=%23m76bb78a7-b6ab-4e96-850d-aa5a08145b16+%3E+div+%3E+div&csid=169b919d-ac8c-4ea3-a593-d3a89802c85e&caid=7f71b8cd-5037-41d3-b785-30531a657e1b&ciid=8a103bc9-de71-4abe-9f6d-d409c2251588&tenant=wk_1Tqf7EYzOKyxm4Gvq042rU0Uky0&srckey=src_1Tqf7BF96WTbG5QbUndHWIgKoFo&cxsid=f0e30d87-9c6e-4631-a8d5-38da29df1d38&imre=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaGVhbHRobGluZS5jb20vaGVhbHRoL3BhaW4tcmVsaWVmL294eWNvZG9uZS12cy1oeWRyb2NvZG9uZQ%3D%3D&_mfuuid_=f705aad8-d432-4c4b-9559-507abd46441d&width=750&subId=bhwidget_hl_substancerx_33008

Last medically reviewed on April 2, 2019

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Vicodin vs. Percocet for Pain Reduction

• Use
• Dosage
• Effectiveness
• Cost
• Side effects
• Risks
• Takeaway

Introduction

Vicodin and Percocet are two powerful prescription pain medications. Vicodin contains hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Percocet contains oxycodone and acetaminophen. Read on for an in-depth comparison of these two medications, including how well they work, how much they cost, and what side effects they may cause.

Use

Vicodin and Percocet are opioid narcotic medications. Morphine also belongs to this class. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration classifies opioids as Schedule 2 drugs. This means they have a high risk of abuse and could lead to a physical or psychological dependence (addiction).

Vicodin and Percocet are both prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. For the most part, they should only be prescribed to treat acute or short-term pain caused by an injury or surgery. However, in some cases, these drugs may be prescribed to treat chronic or long-term pain due to conditions such as arthritis or cancer.

Opioids work by interfering with the way pain signals are sent through your central nervous system (CNS) to your brain. This reduces the pain you feel and makes movement and everyday activities easier.

Forms and dosage

Both Vicodin and Percocet come in brand-name and generic versions. The brand-name versions come in tablet form. The generic versions of come in tablet and liquid forms.

Vicodin:

• Vicodin tablets: 300 mg of acetaminophen with 5 mg, 7.5 mg, or 10 mg hydrocodone
• Generic tablets: 300 mg or 325 mg of acetaminophen with 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, or 10 mg hydrocodone
• Generic liquid: 325 mg acetaminophen with 7.5 mg or 10 mg hydrocodone per 15 mL

Percocet:

• Percocet tablets: 325 mg of acetaminophen with 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, or 10 mg oxycodone
• Generic tablets: 300 mg or 325 mg of acetaminophen with 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, or 10 mg oxycodone
• Generic liquid: 325 mg acetaminophen and 5 mg oxycodone for every 5 mL

Vicodin or Percocet is typically taken every four to six hours as needed for pain.

Effectiveness

Both Vicodin and Percocet have been shown to be highly effective in treating pain. In a studyTrusted Source comparing the drugs, researchers found that they both worked equally well for short-term pain management. Another studyTrusted Source showed that they work equally well in treating acute pain caused by fractures.

However, a different studyTrusted Source found that oxycodone, the drug in Percocet, was 1.5 times more potent than hydrocodone, the drug in Vicodin, when prescribed and taken at equal doses.

Cost

Generic versions of drugs generally cost less than the brand-name versions. Because generic versions are available for both Vicodin and Percocet, most insurance companies require that you be prescribed the generic version. The active ingredients in the generic versions of these drugs are the same as in the brand-name versions. Which means their effects should be the same.

At the time this article was written, GoodRx.com reported that the brand-name version of Percocet was much more expensive than the brand-name version of Vicodin. Costs for the generic versions of these drugs were similar to each other and much lower than for the brand-name versions. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Side effects

Because Vicodin and Percocet are both opioid pain medications, they share similar side effects. Common side effects of Vicodin and Percocet can include:

• drowsiness
• shallow breathing
• dizziness
• nausea
• vomiting
• headache
• mood changes, such as anxiety, agitation, or depression
• dry mouth
• problems with coordination or using your limbs during certain tasks, including playing sports and driving
• constipation

While both drugs are likely to cause constipation, oxycodone has been associated with causing this side effect in more people compared to hydrocodone. The long-acting form of oxycodone may cause less constipation than the immediate-acting form. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Serious side effects

Severe but less common side effects can occur with Vicodin and Percocet medications. If you have any of these side effects, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away. These side effects may include:

• trouble breathing
• seizures
• low blood pressure
• rapid heartbeat
• painful urination or trouble urinating
• confusion
• allergic reaction, with symptoms such as itching, hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of your tongue or throat

Both Vicodin and Percocet affect your mental and physical abilities, such as judgment and reflexes. You shouldn’t drive or use heavy machinery if you’re taking either medication. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Interactions and warnings

Vicodin and Percocet are powerful drugs, so you should be aware of the risks involved with taking them. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Dependence and withdrawal

Even if you take them exactly as prescribed, Vicodin or Percocet may become habit-forming. In other words, these drugs can cause physical or mental dependence. For this reason, doctors are cautious when prescribing them.

There is also the risk of a withdrawal response when stopping these drugs. If you take either drug for more than a few days, talk to your doctor before you stop. Your doctor can help you taper off the medication slowly. This reduces your risk of withdrawal. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Be sure to take these drugs exactly as your doctor prescribes to reduce your risk of both dependence and withdrawal problems. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Drug interactions

Like most drugs, Vicodin and Percocet can interact with other medications. This means that when used with certain other drugs, these medications can cause effects that can be dangerous. Before you take Vicodin or Percocet, tell your doctor about all other medications you take, including vitamins and supplements.

Vicodin and Percocet interact with many of the same drugs. For more information, visit the interaction sections for Vicodin and Percocet. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Other conditions

If you have certain health conditions, taking Vicodin or Percocet could increase certain risks. Before taking Vicodin or Percocet, be sure to tell your doctor if you have constipation or intestinal blockage. Opioid analgesics can cause increased constipation, so ask your doctor if you should avoid taking them. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Alcohol

You should not drink alcohol while taking either Vicodin or Percocet. Combining alcohol and these painkillers can cause extreme dizziness or drowsiness, and can even be deadly. In some cases, taking one of these drugs with alcohol can cause liver damage. This is true if you drink more than three alcoholic drinks per day, have alcoholic liver disease, or have a history of alcohol abuse. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Talk with your doctor

Vicodin and Percocet are opioid pain medications that are similar in many ways. Some of the main ways in which they differ are strengths and cost.oxycodone vs hydrocodone 

If your doctor feels you need Vicodin or Percocet for your pain, they will choose the drug for you based on several factors. These factors include your health history and how your body has reacted to pain medications in the past. If you have questions about your prescription or about either of these drugs, be sure to ask your doctor. Questions to ask your doctor might include:

• Would one of these drugs benefit me more than the other?
• Should I be concerned about becoming addicted to this drug?
• Is there a non-opioid pain medication I could use instead?
• If I have side effects from this drug, which ones should I call you about?
• For how long should I take my opioid pain medication?
• How will I know if I am becoming tolerant or addicted to this drug?

Last medically reviewed on November 30, 2017

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FEEDBACK:Medically reviewed by Alyson Lozicki — Written by Kimberly Holland — Updated on September 17, 201810 Exercises to Tone Every Inch of Your BodyFor a Longer Life and Happier Gut, Eat More FiberTop 6 Benefits of Taking Collagen Supplements6 Ways to Boost Your Coffee with Vitamins and Antioxidants

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Oxycodone vs. OxyContin

• Oxycodone vs. OxyContin
• Side-by-side
• Effectiveness
• Cost and availability
• Side effects
• Interactions
• With other conditions
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Takeaway

Introduction

There are many different types of pain that affect people in different ways. What works for you may not work for someone else. For this reason, there are many different medications to treat pain. Oxycodone is one type of pain drug. It comes in an immediate-release form and an extended-release form. The immediate-release form of oxycodone is available as a generic drug. The extended-release form is only available as the brand-name drug OxyContin. This article helps you understand the differences and similarities between these two drugs and how they work. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Read more: All about opioids and addiction »

Oxycodone and OxyContin

OxyContin is a brand-name version of the extended-release form of oxycodone. They are different versions of the same drug. OxyContin and immediate-release oxycodone belong to a drug class called opioids. A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way and are often used to treat similar conditions. Immediate-release oxycodone and OxyContin both bind to receptors in your brain and spinal cord. When they do this, they block pain signals and stop pain.

Side by side: Drug features

Immediate-release oxycodone is used to treat moderate to severe pain, such as from surgery or an injury. OxyContin is usually reserved for longer-lasting pain from the late stages of a long-term disease, usually cancer. Doctors may sometimes add immediate-release oxycodone to treatment with OxyContin during brief moments when the pain becomes severe. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

The following table lists features of both drugs. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

	Immediate-release oxycodone	OxyContin
Why is it used?	Treatment of moderate to severe pain, such as pain after surgery or from a severe injury	Treatment of moderate to severe pain that usually is associated with the last stages of chronic diseases
Is a generic version available?	Yes	No
What are the brands?	OxaydoRoxicodone	OxyContin
What are forms?	Immediate-release oral tabletImmediate-release oral capsuleImmediate-release oral solution	Extended-release tablet
Can the capsule or tablet be opened, cut, or crushed?	Yes	No
What are the strengths?	Immediate-release oral tablet: Generic: 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg Roxicodone (brand): 5 mg, 15 mg, 30 mg Oxaydo (brand): 5 mg, 7.5 mgImmediate-release oral capsule: 5 mgImmediate-release oral solution: 5 mg/5 mL, 100 mg/5 mL	Extended-release tablet: 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, 60 mg, 80 mg
How often do I take it?	Every four to six hours	Every 12 hours
Do I take it for long-term or short-term treatment?	Short-term treatment, usually three days or fewer	Long-term treatment
How do I store it?	Store at a temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C)	Store at a temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C)

Effectiveness

Both immediate-release oxycodone and OxyContin are powerful pain relievers. They both have been shown to be highly effective at treating pain. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Cost, insurance coverage, and availability

Oxycodone immediate-release tablets are available as generic drugs. They usually cost less than OxyContin. Your insurance plan may also prefer generic oxycodone over OxyContin. This means they may cover only one of the drugs or only generic forms. You should call your insurance company to ask if one drug is preferred over the other. You should also call your pharmacy to see if they keep these drugs in stock. Not all pharmacies carry these drugs. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Side effects

The side effects of oxycodone and OxyContin are very similar. This is because they contain the same active ingredient. The most common side effects of these drugs include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• insomnia
• constipation
• itchiness
• dry mouth
• weakness
• headache
• changes in mood or behavior

Severe side effects of these drugs are less common. They include:

• allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, hives, and swelling of your face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• confusion
• feeling faint or lightheaded, which may cause falling
• trouble urinating or changes in the amount you urinate
• unusual weakness or tiredness

Learn more: Detailed drug information for oxycodone »https://416326d5bf67dcb68eb77fbdec3f6fa7.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html

Interactions

An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. This can be harmful or prevent the drug from working well. Do not drink alcohol while taking immediate-release oxycodone or OxyContin. This combination can be deadly. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

The following drugs can interact with both immediate-release oxycodone and OxyContin:

• Other pain drugs, certain drugs for mental disorders (such as phenothizaines), tranquilizers, sleeping pills, and alcohol. These can cause breathing problems, low blood pressure, extreme tiredness, or coma.
• Skeletal muscle relaxers. These can cause problems with breathing.
• Pain drugs that work in the same way as immediate-release oxycodone and OxyContin. These can increase your risk of side effects.
• Certain antibiotics (such as erythromycin), certain antifungal drugs (such as ketoconazole), certain heart drugs, certain seizure drugs, and certain HIV drugs. These can change the effectiveness of immediate-release oxycodone or OxyContin or increase your risk of side effects. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Use with other medical conditions

You shouldn’t take immediate-release oxycodone or OxyContin if you have asthma, other breathing problems, kidney disease, or liver disease. Immediate-release oxycodone and OxyContin can make these conditions worse. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Use in pregnant or breastfeeding women

If you are breastfeeding, do not take either of these drugs. Both of these drugs can pass through breast milk and harm your child.

These drugs may also cause problems if you’re pregnant. Certain side effects of these drugs, such as changes in mood and behavior, breathing problems, constipation, and lightheadedness can be particularly bothersome while you are pregnant. Also, results from one study have shown a link between certain birth defects and the use of opioids by pregnant women. oxycodone vs hydrocodone

Pharmacist’s advice

These drugs are very powerful pain relievers. It is important to know everything you can about these drugs before you take them. They can be habit forming, even at low doses and when taken exactly as prescribed. Misuse of these drugs can lead to addiction, poisoning, overdose, or even death. If you are prescribed these drugs, it’s very important that you talk to your doctor about how to use these drugs safely.

Last medically reviewed on May 23, 2016

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Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm.D. — Written by University of Illinois — Updated on September 2, 201810 Exercises to Tone Every Inch of Your BodyFor a Longer Life and Happier Gut, Eat More FiberTop 6 Benefits of Taking Collagen Supplements6 Ways to Boost Your Coffee with Vitamins and Antioxidants

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