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Tramadol vs. Tylenol With Codeine

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

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

 

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Tylenol with Codeine

 

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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

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

Common Side Effects for Tylenol With Codeine

  • Drowsiness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Dizziness
  • Sleepiness
  • Trouble breathing
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Sweating

Warnings for Tylenol With Codeine

  • Potential for dependence and misuse
  • Dangerously slow breathing (respiratory depression)
  • Risk of accidental overdose
  • Harm to newborn babies
  • Serious medication interactions
  • Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
  • Liver damage
  • Severe allergic and skin reactions
  • Seizures
  • Low blood pressure
  • Low adrenal hormone levels
  • Caution in certain medical conditions
  • Withdrawal

Prices with our coupons for Tramadol vs. Tylenol With Codeine

Price Card Drug Icon
Tramadol60 tablets / 50mg
$15.27$41.60
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Price Card Drug Icon
Acetaminophen/Codeine12 tablets / 300mg/30mg
$10.69$15.10
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