Answer:
Hydrocodone and codeine are NOT the same chemical compound; they're two different drugs.
Codeine is the 3-methylether of morphine. It's almost inactive on it's own, and needs to be converted into morphine via the enzyme CYP2D6 in the liver to cause opioid effects, hence it's a prodrug. The Schedule 4 version of Codeine (syrups, mixed as analgesic with other drugs like Tylenol) is still a pretty weak opioid painkiller and severe pain will typically require something stronger. The Schedule 2 version is an extremely strong opiate, but isn't typically prescribed to most patients; the Schedule 4 version is.
Hydrocodone's chemical structure is similar to codeine's but not the same. It's a great deal stronger than codeine and is hence more effective in reducing severe pain. Hydrocodone also has less severe side effects, such as itching and nausea, than codeine.
Codeine is the 3-methylether of morphine. It's almost inactive on it's own, and needs to be converted into morphine via the enzyme CYP2D6 in the liver to cause opioid effects, hence it's a prodrug. The Schedule 4 version of Codeine (syrups, mixed as analgesic with other drugs like Tylenol) is still a pretty weak opioid painkiller and severe pain will typically require something stronger. The Schedule 2 version is an extremely strong opiate, but isn't typically prescribed to most patients; the Schedule 4 version is.
Hydrocodone's chemical structure is similar to codeine's but not the same. It's a great deal stronger than codeine and is hence more effective in reducing severe pain. Hydrocodone also has less severe side effects, such as itching and nausea, than codeine.
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First answer by Ncbutts. Last edit by TSD -RAVEN-.
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