Although both drugs are used for similar purposes, there are many differences between Xanax and oxycodone. Both medications are often used to treat anxiety, but they have different effects on the body and may be used to treat specific types of pain. Before using any medication, it’s important to speak with your doctor about its risks and benefits, as well as how it will impact other medications or preexisting conditions.
You might hear friends whisper about taking oxycodone for pain. You might even know someone who uses it recreationally (perhaps without knowing the risks). But do you know what that is? And more importantly, do you know if it’s something that would help your pain? Read on to learn more about this drug and whether it might be right for you.
Table of Contents
What is oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid used to treat moderate to severe pain. It’s in the same family of drugs as morphine, fentanyl, and heroin. It works by binding to receptors in the brain that control pain and feelings of euphoria.
Oxycodone is available in short- and long-acting forms, as well as in oral, nasal, and injectable formulations. It’s most commonly prescribed in the short-acting oral form, like OxyContin.
What is Xanax?
Xanax is a prescription medication used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and OCD. It’s a benzodiazepine and works by binding to receptors in the brain that produce feelings of relaxation.
Xanax comes in tablet form and can be taken with or without food. The effects last anywhere from four to six hours, with a shorter “tail-off” period than some other benzodiazepines.
How are they different?
Generally, oxycodone is used to treat more acute pain, while xanax is used to treat chronic anxiety. That being said, both drugs have a variety of side effects depending on the individual taking them. For example, oxycodone is more likely to cause drowsiness, while xanax is more likely to cause increased anxiety.
Oxycodone is also much more likely to cause addiction, whereas xanax is less likely to do so. These differences are why your doctor will choose one specific medication over another for your specific medical needs.
Side Effects of Oxycodone
Drowsiness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, insomnia, itching, sweating, difficulty urinating, and reduced blood pressure.
Side effects from high doses can include slowed breathing, respiratory failure, coma, and death.
Side Effects of Xanax
Drowsiness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, constipation, headache, insomnia, itching, sweating, reduced blood pressure.
Side effects from high doses can include slowed breathing, respiratory failure, coma, and death.
Summing it up
Keep in mind that this article is just a general overview of the differences between xanax and oxycodone. It’s important to speak with your doctor to find out which drug is right for you. Both of these drugs have been prescribed to many people to treat anxiety, pain, and various other ailments. The key is finding the right dosage to help without causing more harm than good.
Xanax and oxycodone are both powerful drugs that can have a significant impact on your life. It’s important to understand the differences between these two medications, as well as their side effects, before deciding which one is best for you.
