Hydrocodone Vs Acetaminophen | Pain Relief Comparison

Pain is a common problem of a lot of people, due to this individuals suffer from discomfort and weeks of abstraction. Therefore, it is required to treat pain conditions to get relief from discomfort. When getting relief from pain, the two popular medications names often come to mind. These are hydrocodone and acetaminophen. Although, understanding the differences between hydrocodone vs acetaminophen is essential to make an informed decision to manage pain. 

However, before using these drugs seeking medical advice is vital to make sure you are taking the appropriate medication as per your condition and to adhere to their recommendations in order to reduce risks and maximize effectiveness. Hydrocodone is a potent opioid medication that works by targeting the central nervous system of the brain to reduce extreme pain. Owing to its strength hydrocodone is typically prescribed for ailments like post-surgery pain or injury that call for more intense pain relief.

Hydrocodone is frequently prescribed with caution though because of the possibility of dependency and possible adverse effects. In contrast acetaminophen is a non-opioid drug that is frequently present in over-the-counter drugs. It is commonly used to treat mild to moderate pain such as headaches, arthritis or fever by obstructing pain signals in the brain. But in general acetaminophen is thought to be safer than opioids. Here is a brief comparison of Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen.

Brief comparison between Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen

There are several differences between these two medicines. Some of them are provided here:

Overview of Hydrocodone: Use in Severe Pain Management

The generic medication hydrocodone is used to treat moderate to severe pain. It is a semisynthetic opioid that is used to treat moderate to severe pain. The medication is a member of the class of narcotic analgesic combinations. It is offered for sale under a number of brand names including Xodol, Zamicet, Verdrocet, Narco, Hycet and Lorcet. A number of other drugs are comparable to hydrocodone such as Oxycodone, Gabapentin, Tramadol, and Naproxen. 

One prescription medication is hydrocodone. It is a Schedule II Controlled Substance Act medication that has FDA approval. Silicon dioxide, stearic acid corn starch, microcrystalline cellulose magnesium, stearate and other essential components are included in the medicine. This analgesic medication is produced by Purdue Pharma, a US-based company. Physicians recommend the medication to patients who are older than eighteen. The medication can be identified by various imprinted initials and is primarily offered as an oral oval pill.

How Does Hydrocodone Pills Work?

Adenylyl cyclase-inhibited receptor binding and neuronal hyperpolarization are the primary mechanisms of hydrocodone medication. This medication specifically targets the mu opioid receptor which is an opioid receptor. 

When patients take the oral pill the effects of the chemicals that cause their pain are lessened. Additionally it makes kappa and delta opioids active as plasma medications. Within 10 to 15 minutes the drug begins to act in the person’s body and it remains active for up to 4 hours.

Doses of Hydrocodone Medicine

• Hydrocodone 5 mg (oral oval white pill)
• Hydrocodone 7.5 mg (oral oval white pill)
• Hydrocodone 10 mg (oral oval white Pill)

Overview of Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen is a popular over-the-counter drug used to treat fever and  mild to moderate pain in patients. Additionally, the medicine is not used for reducing inflammation. Unlike hydrocodone it is not an opioid drug. Acetaminophen is a member of the medications known as analgesics which relieve pain and antipyretics which work is to provide relief in fever. It is marketed under a number of names including Panadol, Mapap, FeverAll and Tylenol. Acetaminophen is frequently contrasted with other analgesics such as naproxen, aspirin and ibuprofen. 

It is not categorized as a controlled substance and is an FDA-approved drug. The medication is composed of magnesium stearate, corn starch and cellulose. Acetaminophen is produced in the US and other nations by numerous pharmaceutical companies. When used as recommended it is safe for the majority of adults and children. Usually sold as round or oval tablets or capsules, acetaminophen is frequently labeled with identifying letters or numbers.

How Acetaminophen Works: Pain and Fever Relief Without Opioid Risks

Acetaminophen primarily reduces fever and pain signals in the brain. It helps lower the production of chemicals that cause fever and pain by blocking an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX) particularly in the brain. In contrast to certain other painkillers it does not lessen the body’s inflammation. 

Acetaminophen begins to take effect 30 to 60 minutes after taking the oral pill. It typically remains active in the body for four to six hours. Since it doesn’t interfere with opioid receptors the drug isn’t regarded as addictive. Fever headaches, muscle aches and other minor discomforts are frequently treated with it.

Doses of Acetaminophen Medicine

• Acetaminophen 325 mg (oral round white pill)
• Acetaminophen 500 mg (oral oval white pill)
• Acetaminophen 650 mg (oral caplet or extended-release white pill)

Common Uses of Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen 

Following are the uses guide for both the medicines: 

• Swallow these medications whole and do not chew or crush them in mouth.
• Use these for recommended periods by the doctor and do not exceed the duration without informing the healthcare provider. 
• After consuming either pill, keep the rest of the tablets in an appropriate environment.
• Try to rigorously follow the  guiding information provided by the doctor.
• Do not consume foods and beverages that are prohibited with these drugs  throughout the medication period. 
• Take proper rest after taking any drug.
• In the case of extreme pain, do not take an overdose; it can lead to risks and complications.
• Take these medicines after consulting with experienced  healthcare providers.

Common Side Effects of Both Drugs

Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen both can cause side effects in a patient if used for an extended duration. Following are the some common side effects of these drugs: 

• Jaundice 
• Abnormal dreams
• Weakness in body
• Loss of appetite
• Dark Urine
• Belching
• Hair loss
• Chills
• Confusion
• Drowsiness
• Stomach discomfort
• Headache
• Hiccups
• Indigestion
• Weight loss
• Faintness
• Muscle pain
• Sleeping problem
• Stomach discomfort 

Safety Precautions for Using Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen

Individuals should know the safety precautions as well when taking any drug.  Some precautions need to be kept in mind while using Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen are mentioned here. 

• If you have asthma problems or any kidney related issues do not use these  drugs without informing the doctor.
• Women should not use these medicines during pregnancy.
• Take these medications when you’re above 18 years of age.
• Avoid consuming alcohol or any other drug when taking these medicines.
• Always keep these medicines away from children and pet’s reach.
• Do not use other opioids when taking the Hydrocodone oral pill or tablet; it may lead to further complications.
• Read the product label carefully before using these pain relieving drugs.
• After taking these medicines, trying to avoid performing heavy tasks may trigger that pain.

Conclusion

Here you have learned about the two pain relieving drugs, Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen. I hope you have got the complete idea of both these medicines, their function, uses, side effects and potency. Both drugs are widely used to get rid of moderate to severe pain however these must be used after seeking a doctor’s consultation to avoid risks and complications. I hope you find this blog helpful to compare these medications.