Hydrocodone and oxycodone are narcotic painkillers often prescribed by physicians to treat acute pain or for pain management after surgery. They’re commonly given, despite their potential to become addictive. When taken as directed and for a short amount of time, these medications are often quite effective; prolonged use or incorrect dosing is risky. Read on to understand hydrocodone vs oxycodone and the ways in which addictions can develop.
Hydrocodone vs Oxycodone In General
Hydrocodone contains codeine and is an opiate pain reliever. It often contains medicines like acetaminophen or an expectorant. Because it’s less concentrated, some may consider it to have a lower potential for addiction. Vicodin is a common name for hydrocodone.
Oxycodone, often seen as Percocet or OxyContin, contains the synthesized opioid thebaine. This specific ingredient leads users to feel a euphoric effect, leading some experts to feel it is more likely to be abused than hydrocodone. Both work quickly and at approximately the same rate. And both have a significant potential for addiction because they can rewire activity within the brain.
The Path of Addiction
No matter if you’re considering hydrocodone vs oxycodone, over time, your body becomes used to both of these narcotic painkillers, and you could develop a dependence upon them. This means you’ll experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking them. In addition, your brain’s chemistry actually changes if you take hydrocodone or oxycodone for long periods of time. That’s why it’s important to take the pills as directed, both in time and in dosage.
A tolerance can develop over time also, causing you to require more of the drug in order to feel the former effects. This fact also makes these painkillers highly addictive and can lead to overdose. Unfortunately, some individuals may turn to other, more potent drugs if they are unable to achieve the desired results from their current painkiller or can’t obtain their prescriptions.
How Silver Pines Can Help
Hydrocodone vs oxycodone doesn’t really matter when you’re considering a quality opioid detox program like Silver Pines Treatment Center. An expert and caring staff can help to ease recovery and increase the likelihood of relapse prevention in those with a dependence on either of these medications.
Highlights of the Silver Pine program include:
- Residential and detox programs
- Trauma therapy
- Work therapy
- Gym and nutrition program
Structured time allows clients to focus on their recovery. You don’t have to face this difficult period on your own. Please give our office a call at 267.719.8689 to learn how you can begin your journey to wellness.
