Oh, one other variable is neglected to mention (because I cringe when I think about it) is counterfeiting. Hey, don't kid yourself. If crooks, even to this day, can counterfeit very detailed paper money, it would be absolutely NO challenge for them to counterfeit pill imprinting plates. IMO I believe that at least 50% of all overseas meds that you order ARE counterfeit made. I also believe the same thing is happening here in America so beware!! If American-made meds are obviously weaker for some reason, I would probably consider the fact that they are probably just old or have been sitting on a hot shelf in a warehouse for awhile. When it comes to Hydrocodone from USA, most of it comes from Florida..That's right, one of the sunbelt states. Or better known as the OVEN state. And we all know what heat can do to a medications' effectiveness..