Cohort Studyhigh evidence
Hydrocodone vs Oxycodone and Postoperative Pain and Opioid Use in Joint Arthroplasty.
JAMA network open·July 1, 2026·PMID 42446879
Why it mattersHydrocodone and oxycodone are the most commonly prescribed opioids after joint arthroplasty, yet comparative data are scarce. This study provides evidence that hydrocodone may offer similar pain control with substantially lower opioid exposure, supporting opioid stewardship efforts in orthopedic surgery.
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