When comparing Oxycodone vs Tramadol, both are prescription pain medications used to treat moderate to severe pain, but they differ in strength, action, and risk. Oxycodone is a strong opioid analgesic, working directly on the brain’s opioid receptors to block pain signals. It’s typically prescribed for severe pain after surgery, injury, or chronic conditions and offers powerful, fast-acting relief. Tramadol, in contrast, is a weaker opioid that also affects serotonin and norepinephrine levels, providing milder pain relief with a lower risk of dependence.