Oxycodone and Codeine are two popular opioids commonly prescribed for pain relief in individuals. You can take these for chronic pain conditions, post-operative pain relief, or after a serious injury. Sometimes the doctor prescribes combinely in severe cases. Therefore, most people are confused about ”Does Oxycodone contain codeine?” To answer this question, let’s explore Oxycodone Vs Codeine: Differences in this article. Before using any one of the pills patient should be aware of Codeine Vs Oxycodone interactions, potency, strength, and possible side effects for a safe result.
A Deep Dive: Differences Of Oxycodone Vs Codeine
Both Oxycodone and Codeine are opioids, but they affect the body in different ways due to their different chemical structures. Oxycodone is synthesized from a natural source called the opium poppy, but Codeine is synthesized from morphine. Before knowing their contrasts, let’s know their characteristics in detail.
What Is Oxycodone and Codeine?
Oxycodone is a narcotic pain reliever that belongs to the opioid analgesic class. Oxy drug generally prescribed for cases in which non-opioids do not work anymore. It is available in its two versions, such as the extended-release and immediate-release versions. The combined version is also available with acetaminophen for additional pain relief. Oxycodone works by binding to the opioid receptors in the central nervous system. It is also called mu-receptors, and by binding to them, oxycodone blocks the transmission of pain signals. It changes the perception of pain signals and additionally helps to release dopamine. That helps to reduce pain and boost mood.
Codeine is a CNS depressant that also belongs to the analgesic class, just like oxycodone. It also works like oxycodone by binding to the mu-receptors in the Central nervous system. This process reduces the perception of pain in the brain and generates relaxation. The metabolism of codeine tends to be more effective for recovery. CYP2D6 enzymes in the liver help to metabolize and make it more potent to heal.
Key Differences Of Oxycodone Vs Codeine
Although both are pain relief medications, they differ significantly in various properties. The patient needs to be aware of all their contraindications to make an informed decision about choosing the pill. Some important differences between Oxycodone and Codeine include:
- Oxycodone and Codeine belong to different drug classes. Codeine is a natural opioid, whereas Oxycodone is a Semi-synthetic opioid.
- In potency comparison, Oxycodone is 1.5 times more potent than Codeine. This means Oxycodone has a higher strength than Codeine.
- For working in the body, they both affect opioid receptors, but the difference is Codeine first needs to fully metabolize.
- These two pills have different Formulations: Immediate-release and extended-release versions, but Codeine does not.
- Oxycodone has a higher potential risk than Codeine.
Dosage and Use of Oxycodone vs Codeine
At the beginning, start with the lower dose to avoid any worse condition. Oxycodone is available in Immediate-release and extended-release formulations. From these, if you want short-term relief instantly, then you can take the Immediate-release of Oxycodone. Different dosages are also available for this. Such as Oxycodone 80mg, Oxycodone 40mg, Oxycodone 5 mg, Oxycodone 15mg, Oxycodone 60mg, Oxycodone 10mg, Oxycodone 20mg, Oxycodone 30mg
Oxycodone is also available in an extended-release version, which can relieve pain for long hours and helps to avoid frequent dosing. This version of Oxycodone is named OxyContin. OxyContin also has two characteristic types, as it is available in OP and OC versions. Traditionally, it is available in an OC version that can be easily broken. This process leads to high potential for misuse; therefore OP version is developed. This OP version is structured in a way that can’t be easily broken or melted. The available dosages are
OxyContin op 5 mg, OxyContin op 10 mg, OxyContin op 40 mg, OxyContin op 30 mg, OxyContin op 20 mg, OxyContin oc 5 mg, OxyContin oc 20 mg , OxyContin oc 30 mg, OxyContin oc 10 mg, OxyContin oc 60 mg, OxyContin oc 80 mg, OxyContin oc 60 mg, OxyContin oc 80 mg
Generally, Codeine is available in low to high dosages, varying from 15-60 mg. Its extended-release version is not available, but sometimes it is combined with acetaminophen for additional relief. The available dosages are: Codeine 60mg, Codeine 300/30mg, Codeine 15mg, Codeine 30mg
Precautions & Safety Tips Before Using Oxycodone or Codeine
Oxycodone and Codeine are both very effective for pain relief and also proven safe, but their analgesic nature suggests using them carefully. They directly affect the Central nervous system, so they carry some significant common side effects like
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Constipation
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Headache or dizziness
- Itching or rash
- Sweating
Generally, these effects don’t happen to all; they are only seen in people who have taken an overdose or the wrong dose. These effects should be known to the users so that they can go for proper treatment without panicking. These effects commonly go away on their own, but sometimes they need medical attention. Go for the check-up before it worsens. To avoid these, obey the precautions below as much as possible.
- The first and major tip for using the pill is to consult your doctor thoroughly. Visit an experienced and licensed physician. Do not take the pill before consultation.
- Tell him about all your medical history and medicine that you are currently taking to avoid drug interactions.
- Codeine should be avoided for use in children due to their lower metabolic capacity.
- Do not take Alcohol or do any machinery work while taking these pills.
- Patients with heart, kidney, and liver issues should take this pill with caution.
- Regular use of these pills can increase dependency, so use them when needed.
- Store the pill in a safe space to avoid any accidental use by the children. Elderly people, pregnant ladies, and people with a sleeping disorder should use this pill with caution.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q.Which is best, oxycodone versus codeine after childbirth?
Both pills are effective in their own way; for example, Oxycodone is more effective for relieving severe pain, while Codeine is suitable for relieving mild pain. In this scenario, oxycodone can be appropriate for cesarean section or complicated delivery. Because the high strength of oxycodone can relieve postoperative pain for a long time. Similarly, Codeine is effective for normal vaginal delivery. But it is not recommended to take during labor pains. The patient can take it after childbirth, but under the supervision of the doctor.
Q.Are Oxycodone and Codeine are same?
No, Oxycodone and Codeine are not the same. They have different characteristics with different properties. Both pills are different in strength, drug class, potential for addiction, formulation, and metabolic condition. Due to their same mechanism of action, some people are confused that they are the same and alternate between the two pills on their own. But actually, they are different; you can’t take them together or alternate. Whenever you use any of these, first consult a doctor and do a proper health check-up.