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How is Oxycodone effects compared to Hydrocodone?

I am going to see my Dr. today and I have been perscribed hydrocodone in the past to treat chronic lumbosacral pain. How is Oxycodone 5mg compared to Hydrocodone? I take Hydrcodone 5/500 APAP. Is Oxycodone a good alternative to Hydrocodone? What are your experiences?

Thanks much
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Avatar universal
Thanks much. I decided to continue to go with hydrocodone. I saw my nurse today and she wrote me up for 5/325 norco. If the tylenol becomes a problem I will probably see my doctor to give Oxycodone a try without the tylenol. That sounds like a much more manageable way to adjust med dosages.

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Avatar universal
Earlier this year I was able to get 5/500 prescribed. However, today when I saw my nurse I was told for the first time about the 500mg of apap being discontinued thus she wrote me up for 5/325.
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710547 tn?1295446030
I wanted to explain some of the differences rather than vote, as everyone is different.  They are both narcotic pain relievers, however hydrocodone is only prescribed as a combination drug - as in w/ acetaminophen. Oxycodone can be prescribed as an individual drug - giving you and your physician more flexibility when dosing.  Oxycodone prescriptions also have to be physically handed to a pharmacist - they can't be phoned in and you can't have refills.

It is generally considered to be a stronger medication, however, it is different for each patient.  I prefer the oxycodone, only because I want to have control of how much acetaminophen, or other NSAID I take.  They can have serious side effects too, as in liver damage.  So, I like being able to take each separately as needed.

Blessings, Jan
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Avatar universal
Hi there...

I'm really surprised you can still get the 500mg tablets as the FDA ruled on the Acetaminophen in pain meds two years ago now...Thankfully none of the Oxycodone pills come with that high of a dosage of it..

Oxycodone is "technically" stronger than Hydrocodone but it all depends on the person...Some people swear they are helped more by the Hydro...

For me...I use the OxyIR 5mg pills that don't have any Acetaminophen...I started having stomach issues and don't want to have this in every pill. Now I can add an actual Tylenol if I have a fever...or an Advil for inflammation if I choose/need.

So...it really boils down to just trying and seeing what works for you and not paying too much attention what works for others as we all have different metabolisms, other health issues, pain issues, etc.

And as I mention in most of my posts....It's important to be making sure that the opiate/pain med is just one small piece of the puzzle in a comprehensive treatment plan to keep your pain at a 5 or so. This way you keep your tolerance level from skyrocketing...

I haven't had to raise my dosages in over 3 and 1/2 years now...

Good luck..

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