Alcohol, as reported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), is frequently mixed with other substances of abuse. Alcohol can induce a range of harmful side effects by itself. It can have unpredictable and perhaps fatal interactions when mixed with other medications. One such class of medications is pain pills. The main aim of this blog is to inform individuals of the delicate balance between pain pills and alcohol.
Recognizing the Complex Interaction Between Pain Pills and Alcohol.
Pain pills are strong allies in the complex world of contemporary medicine for dealing with chronic pain. Opioids like oxycodone and NSAIDs like ibuprofen serve an important role in enhancing the quality of life for many people, whether they are used for postoperative recovery or chronic pain management. However, when alcohol is added to the mix, the fine balance between pain relief and appropriate use is thrown off, and the results can be devastating.
What Are Pain Pills?
Pain pills, or analgesics, encompass a diverse array of medications designed to alleviate pain. NSAIDs such as aspirin and naproxen are commonly used in the medical treatments of inflammation and moderate pain. Opioids including hydrocodone, morphine, and codeine are regularly prescribed by doctors when experiencing intense pain. When used as prescribed by a doctor, these medications can help persons suffering from a wide range of physical aches and pains.
Effects of Combining Pain Pills and Alcohol.
- Depressive state of the central nervous system.
Both alcohol and pain pills are central nervous system (CNS) depressants. Combining them increases the risk of experiencing severe sedation, sleepiness, and cognitive impairment. Overdosing is a real possibility when dealing with this severe central nervous system depression.
- Respiratory suppression
Opioids, in particular, have the potential to suppress respiratory function. The danger of respiratory distress and, in severe cases, respiratory failure is doubled when alcohol is also present. The risk arises from the reduced oxygen supply to the body.
- Heightened gastrointestinal risks
Both alcohol and certain pain pills, especially NSAIDs, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract. NSAIDs have previously been linked with both dyspepsia and ulcers. When mixed, this may increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers, both of which are serious conditions that require emergency medical attention if they occur.
- Liver strain.
Alcohol and certain pain medications, including acetaminophen, place a burden on the liver. Increased liver damage from disorders like hepatitis or cirrhosis may result from the combined strain of both alcohol and pain pills.
Treatment Options for Alcohol Addiction and Other Substances
It is possible to get dependent on both alcohol and another drug be it a pain pill at the same time. Multi-substance dependency is complicated but can be treated. This condition is also known as dual diagnosis. Here are some of the treatment methods to find at a facility offering dual diagnosis treatment:
- Detox
A detox program is strongly suggested in such a situation. Withdrawal from both drugs can cause severe discomfort. Safe and comfortable detoxification will take place under the watchful eye of medical professionals around the clock.
- Outpatient and Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient treatment is ideal for treating serious medical conditions because of the individualized attention and constant supervision they provide. Program lengths range from 30 days to 90 days, depending on the individual’s severity of the substance dependency and the individual’s level of success in recovery. One will also have access to group and individual therapy sessions, as well as medication, comfortable accommodation, and healthy meals.
Outpatient treatment is the best option for those with less severe addiction. During outpatient care, the patient stays in their own home but comes to the facility for therapy a few times a week.
Skyward Treatment Center Offers the Best Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Pain Pills and Alcohol Addiction in Houston, Texas.
Awareness is the first step toward safety for those walking the fine line between pain management and appropriate pharmaceutical use. Seeking expert help is essential if you or someone you care about is struggling with the tangled web of pain pills and alcohol. Skyward Treatment Center is committed to providing holistic care, treating not only the physical but also the emotional and psychological elements of substance addiction. Our knowledgeable team is here to help if you or someone you know needs help to reclaim their life. Make the first move toward a happier, healthier tomorrow by scheduling a private appointment right now. Our programs are tailored to each client’s needs and our pricing is pocket friendly.