In this hectic life, individuals face certain health problems like arthritis, cancer, muscle spasms, and injuries. To manage these pain conditions, many pain reliever drugs are available. Among them, Oxycodone and Codeine are the two most popular opioids widely prescribed by many physicians to treat moderate to severe pain. But, when it comes to the comparison between both drugs, many questions arise like: are Oxycodone and Codeine the same, can Oxycodone and Codeine be taken together, can you take Oxycodone and Codeine at the same time?
In this article, we’ll discuss in detail the comparison of Oxycodone Vs Codeine, to provide you with a better understanding and to help you make an informed decision about your pain management plan.
Oxycodone and Codeine, What is it?
An opioid pain medication, Oxycodone, is a part of the drugs known by the name Opioids and is prescribed to relieve severe or moderate pain. It is also recommended as a cough suppressant similar to Morphine, Codeine, and Hydrocodone. This drug comes in two formulations: immediate-release and extended-release. The immediate-release formulation of Oxycodone is used for quick relief from moderate to severe pain, while the extended-release formulation is used to treat severe or chronic pain conditions.
Codeine is another narcotic pain-reliever designed to address different levels of discomfort. It is commonly used to alleviate mild to moderate pain and is also prescribed for pain management due to dental procedures or surgeries. Combined with other medications like acetaminophen, this drug enhances pain relief and is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and syrups.
Is Oxycodone and Codeine the Same Drug?
Oxycodone and Codeine are both opioids that change to user’s perception of pain, and have the following in common:
Both are opioid narcotics and are available by prescription only in the USA. They are addictive controlled substances and are scheduled as narcotics by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). As such, they can both cause abuse, dependence, and addiction.
Oxycodone and Codeine share common side effects, including sedation, drowsiness, and respiratory depression. Both drugs are used in combination medications: Oxycodone is combined with the pain reliever acetaminophen and sold under the brand name Percocet. Similarly, Codeine is combined with cough and cold medications and sold under the brand names like Coditussin DAC.
As Codeine and Oxycodone are both opioids and central nervous system depressants, it is possible to overdose on either one of the drugs. If you have been taking either Oxycodone or Codeine over the long term, and stop it suddenly, it enhances the withdrawal symptoms.
Oxycodone Vs Codeine Difference
Despite their similarities, Oxycodone and Codeine have some differences. So, it is important to understand these differences before using which makes it easy to choose the right effective treatment for your needs. The differences may include:
- Both opioid medications are used to manage pain, but they differ in potency, use, and risk profile. An oxycodone pill is generally prescribed for moderate to severe pain and is stronger than Codeine. The higher potency of Oxycodone comes with a greater risk of addiction and dependence.
- On the other hand, Codeine is recommended for managing mild to moderate pain. It is combined with other medications acetaminophen, to enhance its effects. It is also prescribed as a cough suppressant.
- Codeine and Oxycodone cause side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, and constipation. But the effects of Oxycodone are more pronounced due to its strength.
- Oxycodone is a Schedule II controlled substance, while Codeine ranges from Schedule II to Schedule V. So, Oxycodone is more addictive than Codeine.
- Oxycodone and Codeine are derived from different chemicals that help to account for the difference between them. Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic drug, which means it is man-made, while Codeine is derived from the natural opioid morphine.
What is Better for Pain, Oxycodone or Codeine?
Both medications are prescribed for treating pain, but each drug works uniquely. It has already been proven that Oxycodone is significantly 10-12 times more potent than Codeine. An Oxycodone pill is stronger as compared to Codeine and is prescribed when more powerful pain relief is needed. It is the best treatment for moderate to severe pain, like post-surgical pain, injury, or cancer-related pain. And Codeine is suitable for mild pain or as a cough suppressant, and is often found in combination medications. Due to the higher risk of addiction, it is quite difficult to choose Oxycodone as a pain reliever. So, it is advised, before taking any of the drugs, first visit a healthcare provider and discuss which is better for you as per your requirements. Otherwise, it may increase withdrawal symptoms.
What is the Dosage of Oxycodone Vs Codeine?
It must be under the supervision of a doctor while you take any dose of any drug. They recommend a proper dose for you after knowing your past medical history and present health condition. Oxycodone IR is effective within 10-30 minutes and lasts up to 4-6 hours, while Oxycodone ER starts working within 1 hour and lasts up to 12 hours. Similarly, Codeine pills are effective within 30-60 minutes and last up to 4-6 hours. Let’s discuss different doses of Oxycodone and Codeine.
Oxycodone Dosage
- The starting dose used for immediate-release Oxycodone pills is 5 mg to 30 mg every 4-6 hours. Sometimes, a doctor may prescribe 30 mg or more every 4 hours, depending on the patient’s health condition.
- The usual starting dose for extended-release tablets is Oxycodone 10 mg every 12 hours. It is used when around-the-clock treatment is required.
- Patients who have already been using opioids and have become tolerant to opioid therapy should only use Oxycodone 60 mg and 80 mg capsules or a single dose greater than 40 mg.
- The adult dose of the oral concentrate is Oxycodone 5 mg every 6 hours, and the adult dose for the oral solution is Oxycodone 10 mg to 30 mg every 4 hours.
Codeine Dosage
- The adult dose of Codeine for pain is 15 mg to 60 mg every4-6 hours.
- The dose for cough is 10-20 mg every 4 to 6 hours, and the maximum dose for treating cough is 120 mg every 24 hours.
How Long Does Each Drug Stay In The System? (Oxycodone Vs Codeine)
Due to the different half-lives and individual variations, the Oxycodone pill has an average half-life of 3-6 hours, while codeine has a 3-hour half-life. Let to know the detection timing of both the drugs through different drug tests.
Oxycodone Vs Codeine Drug Test
Oxycodone and Codeine, both drugs, can be detected in various drug tests, including urine, blood, saliva, and hair. Detection time varies for individuals due to their metabolism, age, weight, and dose. Below, we explore in detail the timeframes for how long both medicines stay in your body.
How Long Does Oxycodone Stay In Your System?
| Test Type | Detection Time Of Oxycodone |
| Urine | 1-4 Days |
| Blood | Up to 24 Hours |
| Saliva | 1-2 Days |
| Hair | Up to 90 Days |
How Long Does Codeine Stay In Your System?
| Test Type | Detection Time Of Codeine |
| Urine | 1-3 Days |
| Blood | Up to 24 Hours |
| Saliva | 1-2 Days |
| Hair | Up to 90 Days |
Final Thought
Hope this article is informative to you about Oxycodone Vs Codeine. In the end, we conclude that both medications, Oxycodone and Codeine, are helpful for those individuals suffering from moderate to severe or chronic pain. If you have any side effects after getting these medicines, contact your doctor urgently; otherwise, it can cause serious health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an Accidental Overdose of Oxycodone and codeine?
When someone unintentionally takes more than the recommended dose, an accidental overdose occurs that leads to toxic effects. Overdose may show symptoms like extreme drowsiness, cold, stopped breathing, low blood pressure, seizures, confusion, slow heartbeat, nausea, and respiratory depression. To avoid these overdose symptoms, immediately seek emergency medical help and discuss with a medical professional for getting proper precautions.
Are Oxycodone or Codeine Safe to Take During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding?
Without strict medical supervision, it is not safe to take Oxycodone or Codeine during pregnancy. Their use carries serious risks to the mother and the developing fetus. For the extended-release of Oxycodone, there is no information is available on the effects of the drug on the breastfed infant. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions, including sedation and respiratory depression in a breastfed infant, breastfeeding is not recommended during the treatment with Oxycodone. But a small amount of Codeine is secreted in breast milk, and the risk of adverse events in the infant is small.
Is It Safe to Drink Alcohol With Them?
No, it is not safe to drink alcohol while taking Oxycodone or Codeine. Both alcohol and drugs depress the CNS, leading to slow breathing, lower heart rate, and reduced blood pressure. It may also cause more confusion and excessive drowsiness. So, it is advised to avoid alcohol while using Oxycodone or Codeine.