6 Risks of Combining Alcohol with Prescription Painkillers

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Prescription painkillers are highly effective at reducing pain, but their use comes with dangerous risks, such as physical dependence, addiction and death — especially when combined with alcohol. When used together, alcohol and opioid painkillers enhance the effects of one another and have unpredictable, adverse effects on the body. Understanding the risks associated with combining alcohol and painkillers can help you or your loved one avoid accidental death by intoxication and/or overdose.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with substance abuse, understand that several nearby rehab centers can help. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 800-934-1582(Sponsored) to learn more about addiction treatment centers for opioid abuse and/or alcohol abuse.

Here are six risks associated with combining alcohol and opioid painkillers.

1. Overdose

Opioids reduce pain and bring on feelings of relaxation, both leading to a decreased heart rate and drowsiness. The sedative effects of alcohol are intensified when combined with opioids, leading to an increased risk for respiratory depression and unconsciousness. Both symptoms are commonly associated with an overdose.

2. Seizures

Combining opioids and alcohol substantially increases the risk of seizures. This dangerous combination leads to serious central nervous system depression, which lowers the threshold for seizures by triggering brain dysfunction. Furthermore, this combination can cause serious metabolic changes such as fluctuating blood sugar levels. These fluctuations increase the risk of seizure activity. 

3. Dehydration

Combining alcohol and opioids can cause severe dehydration.

Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it causes the body to produce more urine and for this reason, you have to use the bathroom more often than usual. This can quickly deplete electrolyte balance. As well, drinking can induce vomiting and diarrhea, both of which can contribute to dehydration. While opioids alone do not cause dehydration, some side effects of their use, such as excessive sweating and drowsiness, can lead to dehydration. When combined, the risk is substantially increased, leading to potential complications such as organ failure, hypovolemic shock and seizures.

4. Sudden Changes in Blood Pressure

Opioids lower blood pressure, while alcohol raises blood pressure. Combining both substances can cause sudden fluctuations in blood pressure, which can be fatal for those who suffer from other serious health conditions, such as heart disease or a history of stroke.

5. Fainting

Fainting is associated with both alcohol and opioid use. This can be especially deadly if a person is driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in other high-risk activities.

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6. Coma

Coma can be caused by factors such as alcohol poisoning and extreme fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Because the effects of alcohol are magnified when used with opioids, alcohol poisoning is more likely to occur and can lead to coma. Coma can also be caused by sudden changes to blood pressure that can occur when combining alcohol and opioids.

When using prescription painkillers or prescription drugs of any kind, consult with your doctor before mixing substances. Mixing drugs with alcohol can have serious consequences to your health and increase the risk for overdose, coma or death. If you’re suffering from addiction to one or both substances, most rehab centers can help you treat and overcome alcohol and drug abuse at the same time.

Are you struggling with addiction to prescription painkillers and/or alcohol? Get help now before it’s too late. Call our 24/7 confidential helpline at 800-934-1582(Sponsored) to learn more about addiction treatment centers devoted to helping you overcome substance abuse.

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