Combining substances, whether it is a legal substance or an illicit drug, can be extremely dangerous. Recognizing the consequences of combining drugs will enable someone to know when seek help. Here is a list of the possible effects of combining two or more drugs.
Increased Drowsiness
A potential effect of combining drugs is drowsiness and lethargy. In some cases, body organs can shut down and stop functioning due to this effect.
Examples of substance combinations that may cause extreme drowsiness include:
- Alcohol combined with certain anti-depressants
- Anti-anxiety medications that are combined with over-the-counter medications for colds or flus
- Any substance that may cause drowsiness that is combined with similar medications
Consequences of Combining Drugs
Generally, it is best to avoid combining medications that have the potential to cause drowsiness. According to Dr. Oz, even over-the-counter medications can interact and increase the effects of medications that cause drowsiness, so you or your loved ones should always discuss the potential for interactions when you are given a new prescription.
Risk of Overdosing
When you combine medications, there is a chance of overdosing. For example, a prescription pain reliever may contain an ingredient that is found in over-the-counter medications at a higher dose. When you combine the prescription medication with any drug that contains a similar ingredient, you may face symptoms of overdosing on the substance.
Certain substances, such as cold and flu medications or even allergy medications, can contain ingredients for pain relief. If you are taking a prescription medication, then you should always look at the list of ingredients on any over-the-counter medication to ensure that it does not contain a similar ingredient. Do not assume that only the active ingredients can interact. Read the list of inactive ingredients as well as the active ingredients to avoid any risks.
Reducing the Effectiveness
Combining drugs does not always result in increasing the effects of certain symptoms and behaviors. In some cases, it can actually reduce the efficacy of a medication. For example, combining an antibiotic medication with an oral contraceptive can reduce the impact of the contraceptive, states WebMD. The result of mixing the medications can be a higher risk of pregnancy.
When a loved one is taking a medication that is important for his or her health, you or your loved one will want to be aware of any interactions that can reduce the efficacy of the medication. Otherwise, there may be risks associated with the lower effects of the drug.
Increased Risk of Bleeding
A variety of medications and drugs can affect circulation and result in bleeding. When you, or a loved one, is taking medication to reduce clotting or to reduce the risk of certain blood conditions, it is best to speak with a doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications for pain or any herbal supplements that can affect the blood stream.
Combining certain drugs or substances can increase the risk of bleeding. The blood may clot, which can mean that a single bruise or injury will result in major concerns. AARP explains that some prescriptions drugs can interact badly with over-the-counter medications because both drugs will have an effect on blood clots.
Slow Reaction Times
The Food and Drug Administration warns that mixing certain drugs can increase the risk of accidents when driving a car or using any type of heavy machinery. The reason is related to the way the drugs delay reaction times.
Certain medications can cause slow reactions to outside stimulus. When a drug is combined with similar medications or any drug that causes drowsiness, it may result in a slower reaction time, which could lead to an accident.
There are a variety of potential consequences related to substance abuse. In some cases, the interactions can result in severe injuries, overdosed, and death. When you are concerned about a prescription that a doctor has recommended for you or a loved one, talk to a doctor about potential interactions. Do not assume that it is safe to use over-the-counter medications unless a doctor has determined that it is safe.
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