Prescription opioids tend to contain opioids that can be misused illegally or can develop into an addiction. Mixing painkillers with alcohol has indeed been proven to be fatal. To avoid any fatal overdoses, it is important to never mix alcohol with any painkillers you have to take.
How Vicodin Works
Hydrocodone, found in Vicodin, is an opioid. It is normally prescribed for those experiencing moderate to severe short-term pain. As a depressant, Vicodin depresses or slows the brain’s function, which slows down your breathing and heart rate. This will cause you to feel calm or sleepy. When your central nervous system slows down too much, overdoses and other dangerous health consequences can occur. Ultimately, to avoid getting hooked on Vicodin, it should be considered a short-term solution.
How to Tell If Someone Is Addicted to a Painkiller Like Vicodin
What is tricky about prescription painkillers is that they have been prescribed by a doctor, making it seem like they are safe to use, no matter what. The truth is that Vicodin is a medication that you need to watch out for, as you can become dependent or addicted very quickly. Usually, those who use opiates and opioids will isolate and be withdrawn from their families. These individuals typically feel sedated, confused, and withdraw themselves from activities they used to enjoy. They also might be bouncing from doctor to doctor to keep acquiring the same medication prescription. If you notice someone appears to show these signs, as well as flu-like symptoms, it is extremely likely they have a dependence on the medication. Reach out to an addiction specialist to learn about treatment options and better understand this addiction.
Why It Is Risky to Mix Alcohol With Vicodin
Opioids and alcohol are both depressants that can slow down the central nervous system, which controls your breathing. When you mix them together, your brain may fail to send a signal to the body to breathe, which can lead to death. Other side effects can include breathing heavily, your skin turning blue, sweating, or wheezing. Any prolonged use of this mixture can cause severe liver damage, as alcohol and opioids get processed in the liver. Continued use can cause recurrent stress to the lungs and long-term damage. Remember that there is no shame in any addiction. By going into treatment for opioid and alcohol use disorder, you are taking control of your addiction and your life.
Although prescribed medication may not seem dangerous, prescription painkillers and alcohol can quickly become a lethal combination. At Alta Loma, we will work closely with you to help you understand how to safely take any necessary medication, control your addiction, and manage any co-occurring mental health concerns. We recognize how hard it is to confront addiction, and we are here to ensure you get the best treatment possible. Alta Loma works with men of all ages to address substance abuse, as well as a multitude of co-occurring mental health issues that can ultimately lead to addiction. We offer varying levels of care to meet the needs of each individual and can personalize treatment to address your unique case. To find out more about the programs we offer and how we can help you begin your journey of living a healthier, happier life, please call us today at (866) 457-3843.
