Hydrocodone Vs. Oxycodone– What Are The Differences?
People tend to think that Hydrocodone and Oxycodone is the same thing since they are both analgesics prescribed for pain relief, but in reality they are two totally different ingredients in prescription medications.
Hydrocodone is the active ingredient in prescription medications such as Vicodin and Norco. Oxycodone is the active ingredient in OxyContin and Percocet which are two of the most popular opioid prescription medications available.
Release Time
Both the standard release form of Hydrocodone and Oxycodone take effect about 30 minutes to one hour after ingesting. Oxycodone’s immediate release version will provide pain relief within 10 to 20 minutes after ingestion. Hydrocodone does not have an immediate release version.
Both medications will, on average, manage pain for 4 to 6 hours. Hydrocodone offers a controlled-release formula that will last for up to 12 hours for severe pain management.
Usage
Hydrocodone and Oxycodone manage moderate to acute pain when taken orally. These are prescription medications that must be prescribed by a physician. Both medications are regulated by the FDA.
Each one has a specific set of side effects and the primary reason that one is prescribed over the other is to avoid the side effects. Some people may be more sensitive to Oxycodone since it is part of the opioid family.
Hydrocodone products will generally be mixed with ibuprofen or acetaminophen. NSAIDS can cause gastrointestinal problems if they are taken over a long period of time or in large quantities.
Oxycodone is available as a stand-alone medication and is not usually combined with other medications.
Dosage
The initial dose for Hydrocodone and Oxycodone is 10 mg over 12 hours. The dosage may be adjusted to 5 mg or 15 mg every 4 to 6 hours. The maximum dosage per day for Hydrocodone is 40 mg. The maximum dosage per day for Oxycodone is 80 mg.
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Cost
Cash price for Vicodin, which is 5 mg Hydrocodone and 325 mg acetaminophen will average $12 to $25. Cash price for Percocet, which is 5 mg Oxycodone and 325 mg acetaminophen will average $23 to $73.
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