Which is more effective ... the goal is to take the least amount necessary for pain relief

[Warpy]

1. They're completely different drugs

Oxycontin (oxycodone) is the stronger of the two. The Lortab (hydrocodone) is usually mixed with Tylenol. What people in serious pain generally do is take the oxy around the clock and use the Lortab for breakthrough pain.

Pain patches deliver a drug, usually Fentanyl (sublimaze) through the skin, over a long period of time. The good news is that you don't have to think about taking pills on time. The bad news is that it's an incredibly strong drug, so disposing of the used patches properly is necessary. Junkies OD on the stuff if they find a patch in the trash.

You will likely still have a prescription for breakthrough pain with a pain patch.

Good luck, I hope you find a pain management regimen that suits you and allows you to get back to functioning.