Prescription painkillers provide effective relief for millions of Americans every year. But what happens when people fail to take their medication as directed? Even when they follow their doctor’s instructions, they sometimes fall into dependency on opioids. In comparing hydrocodone vs oxycodone, how do these drugs differ in terms of abuse potential?
The Dangers of Addiction to Prescription Drugs
While many people abuse alcohol and illicit drugs solely to get high, others become hooked on perfectly legal substances like prescription pain relievers. They may need a narcotic after routine surgery, so their doctor gives them a short-term prescription. In looking at hydrocodone vs oxycodone, both have the potential for abuse even when taken as directed.
In some cases, users enjoy the feeling of relaxation and calm the drugs produce. They continue taking the medicine after they no longer need it, but they find they must take more to feel the same effects. As their tolerance increases, so does their dependency.
From there, it’s all too easy to move into addiction.
About Hydrocodone and Oxycodone
Both of these drugs are prescription opioids, and they’re useful for similar purposes. They relieve moderate to severe pain.
Hydrocodone is available under brand names like Vicodin, Lortab, Norco, and Maxidone. It can help to relieve pain and work as a cough suppressant. Hydrocodone can be combined with acetaminophen which works as a fever reducer in addition to a pain reliever.
Oxycodone is available under brand names like Oxycontin, Oxyfast, Percocet, and Percolone. Like hydrocodone, oxycodone may be combined with acetaminophen. And over the long term, both can lead to mental and physical dependency.
Hydrocodone vs Oxycodone: How Are They Different?
In terms of effectiveness, there’s no clear consensus on which is more powerful for relieving pain in a comparison of hydrocodone vs oxycodone. One trial showed that patients had similar results when taking either drug with neither one having a definite edge.
However, people who abuse opioids tend to prefer one drug or another based on their wants. For instance, users looking for the better high look to oxycodone while users who want a drug that’s easier to get look to hydrocodone.
Oxycodone is a more popular drug overall among people who abuse opioids.
Personalized Care, Proven Success
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