There are numerous medications given by doctors to manage pain. Often, prescription opioids are given to individuals after surgery, which frequently includes dental procedures. But what is the difference between oxycodone vs. hydrocodone? Is one more potent than the other? Can they become addictive? Read below to learn the differences between oxycodone vs. hydrocodone and how addiction to either affects users.
Oxycodone vs. Hydrocodone For Pain Management
If you suffer from pain, your doctor will likely prescribe a pain relief medication if discomfort is chronic or severe. Both oxycodone and hydrocodone are prescription opioid pain relievers. They are considered to be narcotics and are much like fentanyl, methadone, and morphine in nature. Most people take these drugs to alleviate pain caused by inflammation. Since they are highly addictive, they are prescribed in low quantities and many physicians require subsequent visits to reassess pain before refills are presented.
Unfortunately, each of these medications are addictive. Hydrocodone can be used along with ibuprofen, while oxycodone should be used only in conjunction with acetaminophen for severe pain. The side effects from using one of these medications vary. With oxycodone use, some people suffer from:
- A loss of energy
- A loss of strength
- Twitching
- Gastritis
- Mental confusion
- Chronic hiccups
- Twitching of the body
- Anxiety
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Tinnitus
- Depression
- Impotence
- Skin rash or dryness
- Irritability
- Seizures
Hydrocodone side effects include:
- Swelling in the body
- Muscle spasms
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Back pain
- Urinary tract infections
- Chills or hot flashes
When contemplating oxycodone vs. hydrocodone, be aware that they both cause impairment that requires you do not drive or operate machinery. They also slow down breathing in those that are elderly or that suffer from lung disease.
How To Tell If Someone Is Addicted To Oxycodone Or Hydrocodone
The differences between oxycodone vs. hydrocodone can be seen in how they provide pain management for the body. Because they are both opioids, they are both addictive in nature. It is important to always follow a physician’s recommendations regarding dosage and frequency of use. If you are worried about addiction to one of these medications, knowing the signs of a problem is the first step in knowing when to obtain treatment. Some signals that indicate an addiction is a concern include:
- The need to take more than the prescribed dosage to achieve desired pain management
- Itchiness of the skin due to excessive use of the prescribed medication
- Constipation due to digestive difficulties from excessive medication in the body
- Hallucinations
- Abnormal thoughts
- A change in hygiene
- A change in behavior
- Having multiple medications on hand, perhaps from several doctors or pharmacies
- Risky behavior such as driving after taking medication
- Thinking about the medication often and counting down the minutes until it can be taken again
- Relationship or job difficulties due to side effects from drug use
- If the person tries to stop using or slow down the intake of the oxycodone or hydrocodone, withdrawal symptoms are experienced
Where To Get Treatment For Substance Abuse
If you or someone you care for is displaying signs of oxycodone vs. hydrocodone side effects, we can help. Recovery Ranch PA is located in southern Pennsylvania and provides rehabilitation, therapy, and addiction programs for men and women eighteen or over. We are located near the beautiful Susquehanna River.
Our substance abuse programs includes the following:
- Drug and Alcohol Detoxification Centers
- Inpatient Drug And Alcohol Rehabilitation
- Family Programs
- Outpatient Treatment
- Aftercare Programs
- Alumni Program
If you have concerns about the differences between oxycodone vs. hydrocodone or if you need more information about addiction to one of these medications, call us at 717.969.9126.