{"id":3521,"date":"2018-12-11T14:46:06","date_gmt":"2018-12-11T19:46:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=3521"},"modified":"2025-03-13T18:32:24","modified_gmt":"2025-03-13T22:32:24","slug":"tramadol-vs-oxycodone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/tramadol-vs-oxycodone\/","title":{"rendered":"Tramadol vs. oxycodone: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/tramadol-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tramadol<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/oxycodone-hcl\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oxycodone<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are prescription pain relievers that may be prescribed to you for moderate to severe pain when other treatments have not worked. Tramadol and oxycodone interact with opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain signal transmission. They may be used to treat various pain types, including musculoskeletal pain and post-surgical pain. While they may be used in similar pain types, these two drugs are unique and different from each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th><span class=\"title\">Main differences between tramadol and oxycodone<\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><\/td>\n<td><b>Tramadol<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Oxycodone<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drug class<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mu-opioid analgesic<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opioid analgesic<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brand\/generic status<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brand and generic available<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Brand and generic available<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is the brand name?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ultram, Ultram ER, ConZip, Ryzolt, Rybix<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Roxicodone, OxyOR, Oxycontin, Oxaydo, Xtampza ER<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What form(s) does the drug come in?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Immediate-release and extended-release tablet<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Immediate-release and extended-release tablet, oral liquid concentrate<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is the standard dosage?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">50 mg every 4-6 hours<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5 mg to 15 mg every 4-6 hours<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How long is the typical treatment?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7 days or less<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7 days or less<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Who typically uses the medication?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children 12 years of age and older, adults<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infants, children, adults<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"what-are-the-main-differences-between-tramadol-and-oxycodone\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are the main differences between tramadol and oxycodone?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/tramadol-hcl\/what-is\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tramadol<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a prescription opioid analgesic used to treat pain described as severe for which over-the-counter or other non-opioid options have failed to help. It can also be used in acute traumatic pain, such as post-operative pain, where it is reasonable to assume that less potent options would leave the patient in unreasonable pain. While the use of opioid pain relievers generally tends to be for a short and limited time, tramadol can be used for extended treatment in someone with persistent severe pain for which other non-opioid options are inadequate. Tramadol interacts with mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system (CNS). This alters the body\u2019s perception and response to pain through the ascending pain pathways. Tramadol also inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin neurotransmitters, which are also in the descending pathway.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When tramadol originally came to market, it was not classified as a controlled substance. In 2014, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) re-classified tramadol as a Schedule IV controlled substance. Tramadol has the potential to be abused or misused, and its use should be monitored closely.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tramadol is available as an oral tablet in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. It is also available in a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/tramadol-acetaminophen\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tablet in combination with acetaminophen<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the active ingredient in over-the-counter Tylenol.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/prescription\/oxycodone-hcl\/what-is\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oxycodone<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is also a prescription opioid pain reliever. Like tramadol, it can be used in severe and persistent severe pain for which other options have failed to provide relief. Oxycodone binds to opioid receptors in the CNS pathway, causing inhibition in the ascending pain pathway. This alters perception and response to pain and causes generalized CNS depression.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oxycodone is a Schedule II controlled substance. It has a very high potential for addiction, abuse, and misuse.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oxycodone is available as an oral tablet in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations. It is also available in formulations that combine it with acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen, naloxone, or naltrexone.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"conditions-treated-by-tramadol-and-oxycodone\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conditions treated by tramadol and oxycodone<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tramadol is indicated for the management of moderate to severe pain. It can be used in acute pain, such as postoperative pain, though its use should be limited to short-term use, typically three to seven days. Tramadol can also be used in chronic pain management for persistent, severe pain, though it is not typically a first choice for this indication.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tramadol has been used to relieve <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/conditions\/restless-leg-syndrome-treatment-and-medications\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">restless leg syndrome<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in patients who have had little or no success with traditional treatments. This use is considered off-label, meaning it has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this type of use.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oxycodone is also indicated in the management of pain classified as severe. It can be used in acute pain but should be limited to three to seven days. Oxycodone can be used in chronic pain as well. Due to its severe CNS depressive effects, oxycodone must be titrated slowly up in dose.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><b>Condition<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Tramadol<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Oxycodone<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Acute pain is classified as moderate to severe<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic pain<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Premature ejaculation<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Off-label<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Restless leg syndrome<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Off-label<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Off-label<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diabetic neuropathy<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Off-label<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Off-label<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Osteoarthritis<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Off-label<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"is-tramadol-or-oxycodone-more-effective\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is tramadol or oxycodone more effective?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oxycodone has long been regarded as more potent than tramadol. Pain relievers are commonly compared based on <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/mmwr\/volumes\/71\/rr\/rr7103a1.htm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">morphine-equivalent dosing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Oxycodone is 1.5 times more potent than morphine, while tramadol has negligible potency compared to morphine.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/10747212\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">study<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> compared pain control after facial surgery using tramadol and oxycodone. In this study, the drugs were administered intravenously through a patient-controlled device. Pain control was similar between the two groups, with no statistical difference. Tramadol does not cause respiratory depression to the degree that oxycodone does. However, patients experienced more nausea with tramadol. Researchers concluded that tramadol provided pain relief comparable to oxycodone without the risk of severe respiratory depression.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"coverage-and-cost-comparison-of-tramadol-vs-oxycodone\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coverage and cost comparison of tramadol vs. oxycodone<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medicare and commercial drug insurance plans typically cover Tramadol, though some limitations may apply. In response to the opioid epidemic, many prescribing <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cms.gov\/files\/document\/mln2886155-prescribers-guide-medicare-prescription-drug-part-d-opioid-policies.pdf\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">limitations and guidelines<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> went into effect in 2019 and have been updated as recently as January 2025. Medicare Part D beneficiaries who are opiate naive are limited to a seven-day prescription upon an initial fill of an opiate. Opiate naive is defined as not having taken an opiate in the past 60 days. After seven days, if additional medication is needed, prescribers may prescribe a longer-term. There are exceptions to these rules, such as hospice and cancer-related care. Some chronic pain diagnoses qualify for prescribing exceptions as well. Many commercial insurance plans have adopted similar limitations for their beneficiaries. Pharmacies may also have their own specific policies for the filling of opiate medications.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tramadol can cost as much as $33 for 30 tablets of the 50 mg strength. However, with a coupon from SingleCare, you could purchase this prescription generically for as little as $8.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The average retail price for Oxycodone can be over $35 for 300 tablets of the 5 mg strength. With a coupon from SingleCare, you can fill this prescription for under $9 at select pharmacies.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><\/td>\n<td><b>Tramadol<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Oxycodone<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typically covered by insurance?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, with limitations<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, with limitations<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typically covered by Medicare?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, with limitations<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, with limitations<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Standard dosage<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">60, 50mg tablets<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">120, 10mg tablets<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typical Medicare copay<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typically less than $10<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typically less than $10<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SingleCare cost<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$12-$30<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">$37-$52<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"common-side-effects-of-tramadol-and-oxycodone\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common side effects of tramadol and oxycodone<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The side effects of tramadol and oxycodone are primarily due to their interaction with the central nervous system. Both drugs are likely to cause headaches, drowsiness, and dizziness due to their CNS depressive effects. The adverse events can be severe and may inhibit normal daily activity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opiate pain relievers are known to cause constipation, sometimes severe. It may be necessary to take preventative medications for constipation while on pain relievers. Prolonged constipation may require more harsh laxatives.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following chart is not intended to be a comprehensive list of side effects. Please consult a medical professional such as your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><\/td>\n<td colspan=\"2\"><b>Norco<\/b><\/td>\n<td colspan=\"2\"><b>Vicodin<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Side effect<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Applicable?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequency<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Applicable?<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequency<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Somnolence<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">16%-25%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">18%-32%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness\/ Lightheadedness<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">26%-33%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">24%-46%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">24%-40%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vomiting<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">9%-17%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pruritus<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8%-11%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sweating<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6%-9%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dyspepsia<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5%-13%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5%-10%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diarrhea<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5%-10%<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not defined<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Source: Tramadol (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=ae7c54b1-b440-4cca-97e8-e5b825413d32\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">DailyMed<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) Oxycodone <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/dailymed.nlm.nih.gov\/dailymed\/drugInfo.cfm?setid=094b64b3-cd32-4de5-afb6-ea00d9caad74\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(DailyMed<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"drug-interactions-of-tramadol-vs-oxycodone\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drug interactions of Tramadol vs. Oxycodone<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The use of tramadol and oxycodone with other CNS depressant drugs should be avoided when possible. Drugs such as alprazolam and diazepam, as well as other opiate painkillers, may cause a dangerous level of CNS depression when used with tramadol or oxycodone. Patients may exhibit severe respiratory depression, profound sedation, low blood pressure, coma, or even death.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drugs that affect the serotonergic receptors, such as fluoxetine or sertraline, should be used cautiously in patients who take tramadol or oxycodone. There is the potential for an increased likelihood of serotonin syndrome, which can be characterized by increased heart rate, high blood pressure, confusion, and tremors. This may be more likely when being treated chronically with tramadol or oxycodone.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following table is not intended to be a complete list of potential drug interactions. Consult a medical professional for a complete list and advice on interactions.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\" singlecare-table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr class=\"header-row\">\n<td><b>Drug<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Drug Class<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Tramadol<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Oxycodone<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alprazolam<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clonazepam<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diazepam<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Midazolam<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Triazolam<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Temazepam<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Benzodiazepines<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cannabidiol (CBD)<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cannabis<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dronabinol<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cannabinoids<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbamazepine<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phenobarbital<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anti-epileptics<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dabrafenib<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Erdafitinib<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Immunosuppressive agents<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Desmopressin<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vasopressor<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Aprepitant<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fosaprepitant<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antiemetics<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Granisetron<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dolasetron<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ondansetron<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Palonosetron<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ramosetron<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tropisetron<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5HT3 Antagonists<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hydrochlorothiazide<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Furosemide<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Torsemide<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spironolactone<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diuretics<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Isoniazid<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antitubercular\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Naltrexone<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opiate antagonist<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Phenelzine<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Linezolid<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monoamine oxidase inhibitors<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oxycodone<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opiate<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pramipexole<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ropinirole<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dopamine agonists<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Probenecid<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Uricosuric<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ritonavir<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ombitasvir<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paritaprevir<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dasabuvir<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antivirals<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Zolpidem<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sedative<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fluoxetine<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sertraline<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paroxetine<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"warnings-of-tramadol-and-oxycodone\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Warnings of tramadol and oxycodone<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 id=\"1-alcohol\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Alcohol<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alcohol use should be avoided in patients who take oxycodone. Alcohol could increase the serum concentration of oxycodone and, therefore, enhance the CNS depressant effects. This could lead to dangerous levels of respiratory depression.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"2-liver-and-kidney-function\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Liver and Kidney Function<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescribers may need to adjust the dose or dosing interval of both tramadol or oxycodone in patients who have liver damage or impaired kidney function. Renal and hepatic impairment will affect how these drugs are processed and allow them to remain in the bloodstream longer.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"3-pregnancy-and-breastfeeding\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tramadol and oxycodone are pregnancy category C, meaning there are no human studies proving harm or safety in pregnant patients. The use of these drugs should be limited to only absolutely necessary use. Oxycodone is present in the breast milk of lactating mothers, and breastfeeding mothers should only use oxycodone when the benefit clearly outweighs the risk. Tramadol should not be used in breastfeeding mothers as its active metabolite is more potent and can result in opioid withdrawal in infants.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"4-use-in-children\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Use in Children<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opiate pain relievers should only be used in children when absolutely necessary, typically in an in-patient setting where they can be monitored. The severe risk of respiratory depression makes these drugs very dangerous in children.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"5-history-of-substance-abuse\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. History of Substance Abuse<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tramadol and oxycodone each have a high potential for abuse, misuse, physical dependence, and addiction. They should only be used when all other non-opiate treatment options have been exhausted. Their use should be limited to as short of a term as possible. If a patient has been taking opiate pain relievers for an extended period, they may be prone to withdrawal symptoms if they stop abruptly. Discontinuation after high doses and long-term use of opioid analgesics should be done with physician oversight.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"frequently-asked-questions-about-tramadol-vs-oxycodone\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently asked questions about tramadol vs. oxycodone<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 id=\"are-tramadol-and-oxycodone-the-same\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are tramadol and oxycodone the same?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While both tramadol and oxycodone are opiate pain relievers, they are not the same. Oxycodone is a Schedule II narcotic and causes significant CNS depression, including respiratory depression. Tramadol is a Schedule IV controlled substance and does not cause a significant amount of respiratory depression.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"is-tramadol-or-oxycodone-better\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is tramadol or oxycodone better?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oxycodone is 1.5 times the potency of morphine, while tramadol is only a fraction of the potency of morphine. However, a study done on post-surgical patients found similar pain relief with both drugs. Tramadol causes less respiratory depression, but other side effects, such as nausea, may be worse with Tramadol.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"can-i-use-tramadol-or-oxycodone-while-pregnant\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I use tramadol or oxycodone while pregnant?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The use of tramadol or oxycodone when pregnant should be limited to only when absolutely necessary, as there have been no randomized, controlled human trials to prove their safety. The benefits of use must outweigh the risks, and infants should be monitored for opioid withdrawal syndrome if these drugs are used long-term.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"can-i-use-tramadol-or-oxycodone-with-alcohol\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can I use tramadol or oxycodone with alcohol?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Patients taking tramadol or oxycodone should avoid alcohol use. Alcohol may enhance the CNS depressive effects of these drugs, which can lead to serious adverse events such as respiratory depression, coma, or death.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"which-is-stronger-tramadol-or-oxycodone\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Which is stronger: tramadol or oxycodone?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The potency of opioids is measured in morphine equivalent dosing. Oxycodone is 1.5 times the potency of morphine, while tramadol is only a fraction of the potency of morphine. Clinically, despite this difference, their pain relief of some acute pain symptoms may be similar.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Tramadol and Oxycodone are prescription pain relievers that may be prescribed to you for moderate to severe pain when other treatments have not worked. Tramadol and oxycodone interact with opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain signal transmission. They may be used to treat various pain types, including musculoskeletal pain and post-surgical pain. While [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":10622,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8313],"tags":[808],"coauthors":[10437],"class_list":["post-3521","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-drug-vs-drug","tag-pain-management","wpautop"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.4 (Yoast SEO v27.4) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Tramadol vs. oxycodone: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Tramadol and oxycodone treat severe pain but they work in different ways. 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