how does Codeine compare to Vicodin?

Question

My doctor used to prescribe me Vicodin but now my new doc has given me Codeine. can anyone tell me how 30 mg Codeine tablets compare to 5/500 mg Vicodin tablets?

Answer 1

I have taken both on occassion for herniated disc problem. I found the codeine just a little better than 2 extra strength tylenol. The vicodin for me was more effective, but tolerance and dependence builds more quickly. The word addiction is not appropriate to use unless you have a craving for the drug that is not based on medical need. Many people take narcotic analgesics chronically for pain conditions and nevr become addicted. They will certainly develop drug tolerance, requiring higher doses to relieve the same degree of pain as time goes on. The body will also develop a dependence on the drug that will result in withdrawl if the drug is abruptly discontinued rather than tapered down slowly.This may be the reason your Md chose to drop you down to codeine ( he/ she may soon recommend a non-narcotic).My suggestion is to take the smallest dose of the weakest preparation that effectively controls the pain. You can combine the medication with other modalities to augment the medication & help control the pain sx. I don't know the specfic problem you need the med for, but you sound as if you may have a chronic pain issue. lets say its back pain, you could take your pills, then 1/2 hr later take a warm bath, followed by a massage, then mild stretching,TENS etc.If you find your med is not working keep a 3 or more day diary. note things that initiate pain, make it worse, relive or reduce it, describe the pain and associated sx ,and make sure to try all the non- medication remedies available to you & note the effects. Take this info to your MD appt. and seriously discuss other med/TX options. No one should be made to stay in unrelieved pain because a provider is hesitant to use the appropiate analgesic, whether it is a narcotic or no.

Answer 2

they're both addictive.