Oxycodone, also known by its common brand name OxyContin, is a strong and addictive prescription drug used to treat pain from serious injuries or illnesses. No doctor would prescribe oxycodone to a known to abuser of alcohol; however, there is a large black market that makes it available to people who abuse alcohol. People also obtain the drug with the exclusive intention of mixing it with alcohol.
“No doctor would prescribe oxycodone to a known to abuser of alcohol.”-Projectknow.com
The effects of mixing alcohol and oxycodone can be serious. Both substances depress the nervous system, leading to the possibility of cardiac and respiratory problems. This can cause organ damage, brain damage or death if taken in large enough quantities. You are also more likely to become addicted to oxycodone and alcohol when you use them together.
Factoid:
In the United States, around 1 million people over the age of 12 have used oxycodone without a medical reason.
Symptoms of Oxycodone and Alcohol Use
Oxycodone use can have numerous side effects. Mixing it with alcohol amplifies these effects. Several side effects of oxycodone use are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
Higher doses can lead to more serious side effects, such as:
- Fainting
- Confusion
- Weak breathing
- Slowed heart rate
- Seizure
- Death
Factoid:
Oxycodone is a Schedule II substance under the Controlled Substances Act, the same category as cocaine and methamphetamine.
Addictive Drugs
One of the biggest dangers of mixing oxycodone with alcohol is the addictive nature of each drug. When taking these drugs for a prolonged period, your body can become more tolerant to their effects. Mixing them together creates a stronger initial effect, and this leads to you becoming used to the strong effects. Over time, your tolerance level increases. In turn, you must take more of the drug to achieve the same effect. For many people, achieving their previous level of intoxication may not be enough. This leads to taking even larger doses, faster addiction and greater dependency.
Oxycodone and alcohol addiction are problems for all age levels, but it is of particular concern in teenagers. Around 4 percent of high school seniors said they had used oxycodone over the last year, according to the Department of Justice. If these teens drink when they take oxycodone, it could lead to a lifetime of addiction to oxycodone and alcohol, serious injuries or death.
The earlier you recognize that you are addicted to oxycodone and alcohol, the more effective treatment you can receive.
Factoid:
New York Rangers hockey player Derek Boogaard died accidentally from mixing oxycodone and alcohol.
Lasting Consequences
There are many long-term health risks involved with mixing alcohol and oxycodone. The body has difficulty breaking down both oxycodone and alcohol. Alcohol can only be broken down by the liver, and the act of breaking it down creates a huge strain on the organ. This can lead to liver diseases like cirrhosis and alcoholic hepatitis. Kidney diseases are also common. Oxycodone also stresses the liver and kidneys, making these organs particularly vulnerable. It can affect your respiratory system and cause other chronic health issues like heart disease.
“…people may begin to engage in dangerous criminal activities to get possession of oxycodone.”cite>-Projectknow.com
The strong addiction or drug abuse caused by mixing these drugs can lead to problems in your personal life. People often give up activities they used to enjoy when in the grips of addiction. They may withdraw from family and friends. Often, people start getting bad grades in school or their job performance suffers. In the worst examples, people may begin to engage in dangerous criminal activities to get possession of oxycodone.
If you or someone you know is addicted to oxycodone and alcohol, call today for more information on treatment options.
