Tramadol vs. Tylenol With Codeine for Pain: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Tramadol (Conzip, Qdolo) is a prescription opioid that treats pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications. Tylenol #3 contains an opioid (codeine), but it also contains acetaminophen (Tylenol). It’s used for mild-to-moderate pain. Tramadol and Tylenol #3 also have shared possible side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and constipation. More seriously, they’re controlled substances and taking them can sometimes lead to misuse and overdose.

Tramadol

Get free coupons

Tylenol with Codeine

Get free coupons

Summary for Tramadol

Prescription only

Tramadol is an opioid pain medication used when non-opioid medications aren't working well enough to control pain. Compared to other opioids, tramadol might have a lower risk of misuse and dependency. But tramadol is a controlled substance and has a lot of potentially serious risks, so it must be used with caution.

Indications for Tramadol

Pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications alone

Pros and Cons for Tramadol

Pros

Extended-release tablets and ConZip capsules are taken once per day and last throughout the day.
Immediate-release tablets are available as a lower-cost generic.
Possible lower risk of misuse and dependency compared to other opioids

Cons

A controlled medication, so there are special requirements to get a prescription filled
Must slowly lower the dose to stop the medication after long-term use to avoid withdrawal symptoms
Can't use in some children due to higher risk of potentially severe and life-threatening side effects
Not recommended while breastfeeding

Common Side Effects for Tramadol

Constipation (up to 46%)
Nausea (up to 40%)
Dizziness (up to 33%)
Headache (up to 32%)
Sleepiness (up to 25%)
Vomiting (up to 17%)

Warnings for Tramadol

Potential for addiction and misuse
Dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression)
Overdose
Harm to newborn babies
Drug interactions
Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
Serotonin syndrome
Seizures
Low blood pressure
Low adrenal hormone levels
Physical dependence and withdrawal
Low blood sodium levels

Summary for Tylenol With Codeine

Prescription only

Tylenol with Codeine (acetaminophen / codeine), also known as Tylenol #3, is a combination opioid medication. Both acetaminophen and codeine treat mild-to-moderate pain by blocking pain signals in the body. This medication is taken by mouth, typically every 4 hours as needed. Tylenol with Codeine is available as a tablet and liquid. Like other opioids, Tylenol with Codeine can cause common side effects like sleepiness, dizziness, and constipation. It also has a warning for dangerous breathing problems and risk of dependence and misuse.

Indications for Tylenol With Codeine

Treatment of mild-to-moderate pain that isn't relieved by non-opioid pain medications alone

Pros and Cons for Tylenol With Codeine

Pros

Works well for treating mild-to-moderate pain
Combines 2 medications with different modes of pain relief into a single pill
Available in a liquid form for people who have trouble swallowing tablets
Available as a generic medication

Cons

For short-term pain relief only
Can be habit-forming
Not recommended to take with other medications containing acetaminophen, since it can raise the risk of liver damage
Liquid solution contains alcohol