Combining alcohol with opioids, such as hydrocodone or oxycodone, is extremely hazardous. Both substances are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, meaning they slow essential bodily functions. When taken together, their effects compound, significantly increasing the risk of severe complications, including overdose.
Recognizing the dangers of mixing these substances, the FDA issued a boxed warning in 2016 about the risks of combining alcohol with opioids. This warning applies to several FDA-approved opioids, including:
- Hydrocodone (e.g., Hysingla ER, Norco, Vicodin)
- Hydromorphone (e.g., Dilaudid)
- Oxycodone (e.g., OxyCONTIN, Percocet, Roxicodone)
- Tramadol (e.g., Ultram, ConZip)
- Buprenorphine (e.g., Suboxone, Belbuca)
- Fentanyl (e.g., Subsys, Duragesic)
Why Is Mixing Alcohol and Opiates So Dangerous?
Both alcohol and opioids depress the central nervous system, slowing breathing, heart rate, and other vital functions. When combined, the risk of suppressing these systems becomes dangerously high, potentially leading to respiratory failure or death. Even if opioids are taken as prescribed, drinking alcohol while on these medications can be deadly.
For individuals who misuse opioids, the risk of overdose intensifies. Alcohol can also interact with long-acting forms of opioids, speeding up their release into the bloodstream and further increasing overdose potential.
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Consequences of Mixing Alcohol and Opioids:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Impaired judgment and concentration
- Low blood pressure
- Difficulty breathing or respiratory arrest
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Coma
- Death
Additionally, alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of naloxone (Narcan), a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses. While naloxone targets opioids, it has no effect on alcohol, leaving other parts of a mixed-substance overdose untreated.
Overdose Risks: Alcohol and Opioid Trends
Studies highlight the significant dangers of mixing alcohol and opioids. For example:
- In 2017, alcohol contributed to 14.7% of opioid-related deaths.
- Between 1999 and 2017, fatal overdoses involving alcohol and opioids increased 5.5-fold.
- From 2015 to 2017, 17.2% of fatal opioid overdoses among men and 10.5% among women involved alcohol.
Alcohol’s role in overdose deaths extends across different opioid types:
- 16.5% of heroin overdose deaths
- 10% of methadone overdose deaths
- 14.2% of prescription opioid deaths
- 14.9% of synthetic opioid (e.g., fentanyl) deaths
If you suspect someone is overdosing, seek medical attention immediately. Call 911 or contact Poison Control for online assistance.
Common Questions About Alcohol and Opioid Use
Can I Have One Drink While Taking Opioids?
No amount of alcohol is safe to consume with opioids. Alcohol can increase the rate at which opioids are released into your bloodstream, causing a higher-than-expected dose and elevating overdose risk. Consult your doctor for guidance specific to your situation.
How Long Should I Wait to Drink After Taking Opioids?
Wait until the opioid is completely out of your system before consuming alcohol. The time this takes varies depending on the specific opioid, dosage, and individual factors such as age, health, and metabolism. For example, short-acting opioids like heroin may leave the body in hours, while long-acting opioids like methadone can take days or weeks. Always follow your doctor’s advice.
Are Any Painkillers Safe to Use With Alcohol?
No painkillers, including over-the-counter medications, are safe to combine with alcohol. Even acetaminophen (Tylenol) poses significant risks, contributing to 50% of acute liver failure cases in the U.S. and 20% of liver transplants. NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin also increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding when taken with alcohol.
Signs of an Alcohol and Opioid Overdose
Overdosing on a combination of alcohol and opioids can be life-threatening. Common signs include:
- Shallow or slowed breathing
- Rapid heartbeat or confusion
- Cold, clammy skin
- Severe weakness or dizziness
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Seizures or convulsions
- Stumbling or loss of coordination
- Bluish tint to fingernails or lips
- Gurgling sounds or vomiting
What to Do in an Overdose Emergency:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Administer naloxone (Narcan) to address the opioid portion of the overdose.
- Keep the person awake if possible.
- Position them on their side to prevent choking.
- Stay with them until emergency responders arrive.
Treatment Options for Alcohol and Opioid Use
Mixing alcohol and opioids is often a sign of a deeper struggle with substance misuse. If you or a loved one uses these substances together, seeking professional help is essential to prevent further harm or fatal overdose.
Steps Toward Recovery:
- Medical Detox: A supervised environment helps safely wean individuals off substances while managing withdrawal symptoms.
- Rehabilitation Programs: Inpatient and outpatient rehab focuses on breaking the cycle of addiction and teaching coping mechanisms.
- Ongoing Support: Counseling, group therapy, and aftercare plans help maintain long-term recovery.
The Recovery Village Indianapolis Drug and Alcohol Rehab
For those seeking addiction or mental health treatment, The Recovery Village Indianapolis Drug and Alcohol Rehab stands as a beacon of hope. Located within the heart of Indy, we offer an array of treatment options, including medical detox and inpatient rehab for substance abuse and a residential rehab program for mental health disorders.
When you or a loved one are ready to embark on the path to recovery, our Recovery Advocates are here, ready to assist. Reach out to learn more about our tailored treatment programs, designed to cater to your specific needs and situation.
