Looking into finding out more about hydrocodone vs oxycodone? Transcend Recovery Community has collated the necessary information to help you better identify the two opioids, as well as providing you the lowdown on withdrawal signs, side effects, as well as beneficial treatment options you can consider if you or someone you know want to attain long-term sobriety.
What are Hydrocodone and Oxycodone?
Let's further look at what hydrocodone and oxycodone are and how they work with our definition below.
Hydrocone - A generic opioid ingredient, this chemical is present in many drugs popularly known as "Norco," "Lortab," and "Vicodin." The analgesic is mainly used to treat moderate to severe pain but may also be used as an "antitussive" (cough suppressant). It binds to opioid receptors of the central nervous s system.
Oxycodone - Another common opioid prescription, the fast-acting properties of this chemical are found as a key ingredient in some branded drugs like OxyContin. Other drugs containing this opioid derivative are "Percodan" and "Percocet." It mainly works by blocking your body's pain signals.
Unfortunately, hydrocodone and oxycodone are abused by people who are in constant pain regardless if they don't need the drug, and by people who use them recreationally.
Side Effects of Opioids
While opioid use is more common for the treatment of severe pain, prescription opioids tend to become a problem for some people influenced to many factors. Some of these factors include a person's genetics and allergy tolerance.
People who may have other pre-existing conditions may also experience side effects affiliated with Opioid abuse. People who are using them upon doctor's instructions must first understand that this pain drug may not be the right one for them. Therefore, they must communicate their concerns about oxycodone and hydrocodone with their fam physician.
Some of the side effects that an individual must watch out for include the following:
- gastrointestinal issues - these may manifest through the following:
- nausea
- vomiting
- constipation
- diarrhea
- cognitive problems - you may not feel that you're in an "altered" state when taking oxycodone and hydrocodone. Some of these physical manifestations may include:
- difficulty with focusing
- drowsy sensation
- "foggy" feeling or brain fog
- delayed reflexes
Opioid medications are only intended for use of acute pain relief or severe pain treatment. It shouldn't be abused or taken for other conditions not related to the said conditions. Individuals are also discouraged to practice self-medication.
When taking hydrocodone and oxycodone with other drugs, always inform your attending physician to avoid any contraindications. You should also call your doctor or the emergency hotline right away if you're experiencing severe side effects or a lethal overdose for immediate medical response.
Signs That Someone is on Oxycodone and Hydrocodone
Similar to other addictive drugs that attack the central nervous system, such as Blue Xanax, both hydrocodone vs oxycodone can display signs that someone is under the influence of these drugs. While they are originally meant as pain medications, they still bring a higher risk to individuals who engage in drug abuse.
Here are some signs that you should watch out for if someone you know, particularly a family member or a friend, seems suspicious of drug use.
For Oxycodone:
- itchiness
- dry mouth
- unusual or abnormal thoughts
- dilated pupils
- showing odd or unnatural behavior
- isolation
- hallucinations
For Hydrocone:
- anxiety/panic attacks
- having feelings of fearfulness
- "doctor shopping"
- familiarity with "street names" of drugs
- poor performance in school or at work
- difficulty sleeping
- bloodshot eyes
- possession of large amounts of pain reliever medicine.
When someone close to you manifests three or more of these signals, don't hesitate to talk to a mental health provider. You may also work closely with a sober coach in helping someone with a serious addiction problem.
Hydrocodone and Oxycodone Substance Abuse
Hydrocodone and oxycodone substance abuse disorders are a long-standing problem for most people who have formed a complicated relationship and dependency on acute pain medicine. But the truth is people have many reasons for forming addiction which can be traced back to a myriad of factors.
Some of them may include:
- Family history - If you have family members with addiction problems, chances are you're more likely to develop them too.
- Environment - The convenience of getting drugs, constant social pressure, isolation, and the neighborhood you live in may play a crucial role in the development of addiction, whether it is oxycodone or hydrocodone that you're addicted to.
- Brain function - Psychoactive drugs may change the way your mind works, especially when processing risk, pleasure, and reward. It's a definitive factor in forming addictions.
- Genetics - Previous studies have shown that 40% to 60% of addictions are rooted in genetic and hereditary elements.
When combatting addiction, especially in its early ages, proper diagnosis is of the utmost key. It helps the specialist to appropriate the proper addiction treatment options that may help in the permanent sobriety of an individual suffering from oxycodone and hydrocodone abuse.
Withdrawal Symptoms from Hydrocodone and Oxycodone
There are slight differences when it comes to hydrocodone vs oxycodone--particularly with its formulation. However, these opioid medications share similar symptoms that chronic pain relief users experience when they attempt to wean themselves from the drug.
As an individual starts their withdrawal, they may feel extremely uncomfortable and painful withdrawal symptoms that may pose a challenge on their road to sobriety. Here are some of the withdrawal signs that you need to pay closer attention to in individuals during the first crucial stages of their withdrawal.
For Hydrocodone:
- stomach pain
- chills
- goosebumps
- diarrhea
- mood swings
- depression
- drug cravings
For Oxycodone:
- muscular pains
- sweating
- general lethargy
- vomiting
- runny nose
- headaches
- anxiety
These two drugs may vary in a few aspects, but it's important to note that they lead to a potential addiction for people who frequently use these prescription drugs regardless of their condition. As always, better medication management might be needed to address these issues of an individual.
Treatment for Opioids
The proposed treatment for opioid addiction (hydrocodone and oxycodone) may involve many programs depending on the severity of the case. Some may be better off with an outpatient drug rehab program, to allow them to recover better in their natural environment surrounded by their loved ones.
However, for individuals who may need more time and focus for their rehabilitation, an individualized intensive program (IIP) may be advised. There are three phases involved that the physician may recommend which may also incorporate supportive living to closely monitor a person's progress and overall health.
Should you or someone you know suffer from opioid addiction and want to undergo the appropriate treatment, now is your chance to enjoy a life of long-term sobriety. Transcend Recovery Community's addiction recovery specialists are ready to take your call. Contact us and discover how today.
