Ironically, alcohol has been abused just as much as opioids, even nowadays. In fact, the use of alcohol to lighten or numb pain is probably one of the oldest practices in the world, possibly predating some of our modern civilizations. In fact, researchers strongly believe that (besides marijuana) alcohol is one of the most popular drugs around the world. Overall, the story of alcohol as a pain reliever is nothing new, as we have seen in countless streams of public media. (After all, how many Western films have you seen where a man takes a swig of booze after suffering from a gunshot wound or an arrow to the leg?) Nowadays, people will still sometimes turn to alcohol due to its ability to suppress the central nervous system. However, in particularly dangerous scenarios, people may mix this substance with other painkillers to create a more overpowering effect, an action that can be fatal. Let’s take a closer look at why alcohol and painkillers should never mix.
Alcohol Is Not a Pain Reliever
Despite what the dude cowboys in Western films might do, alcohol is not a painkiller and should never be used as one. If people consume this substance over an extended period of time, they will potentially suffer from a variety of health problems ranging from stomach ulcers to liver disease. Likewise, long-term use can trigger dependency, where a person cannot function without the presence of alcohol. In fact, some scientists have determined that people would have to consume more than the standard dose of booze in order to feel any kind of painkilling effects.
Toxic Mixture with Other Meds
Obviously, you are aware of the dangers of combining booze with other medications or drugs, and, fortunately, most labels on these substances provide clear warnings about the risks of mixing alcohol with your medications. Here is a closer look at some common medications and the harmful side effects of mixing them with alcoholic drinks:
- Codeine: poor function of the central nervous system (possibly fatal)
- Aspirin, Alka-Seltzer: irritation of the stomach and intestines or bleeding in these areas
- Valium: poor judgement and loss of alertness (potentially fatal)
- Sominex: boosts the effects of alcohol on the central nervous system
- Nyquil: increased alertness and feelings of drowsiness
- Insulin: completely unpredictable
- Fulvicin: severe nausea and vomiting
- Medications for high blood pressure: a severe drop in blood pressure
- Anticoagulants: severe blood-thinning (as alcohol is also an anticoagulant)
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder
Pain medications are designed to help you cope with irritating or chronic pain, but alcohol will not improve your situation whatsoever. As you can see, combining it with your drugs can result in painful and potentially fatal side effects. However, it is never too late to get help. If you are suffering from alcohol use disorder or have a friend or loved one who is enduring this same illness. get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the rehabilitation process and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle.
If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your alcohol abuse or addiction troubles today. The time to take back your life is now.
