Substance education
Prescription opioids.
Pain medicines can cause overdose, especially with other depressants.
Also known as Codeine, Hydrocodone, Morphine, Oxycodone, OxyContin, Percocet. A name does not verify contents.
This category
Opioid pain medicines include oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine and codeine. Drowsiness, nausea, constipation and slowed breathing may occur.
Sources & review notes
- New Safety Measures for Opioid Analgesics and Benzodiazepines
FDA · Published/updated 2016-08-31 · Accessed 2026-09-26 · Patient information: combined CNS depressants
Major risks
Misuse and overdose are possible. Alcohol or benzodiazepines with opioids can cause severe sedation and fatal breathing suppression.
Sources & review notes
- Boxed Warning updated for benzodiazepines
FDA · Published/updated 2020-09-23 · Accessed 2026-09-26 · Dependence, withdrawal, alcohol and opioids - New Safety Measures for Opioid Analgesics and Benzodiazepines
FDA · Published/updated 2016-08-31 · Accessed 2026-09-26 · Patient information: combined CNS depressants
Prescription context
Use only as prescribed. A pharmacist should review the actual medicine and other products you take. Familiar branding is not personal medical clearance.
Sources & review notes
- New Safety Measures for Opioid Analgesics and Benzodiazepines
FDA · Published/updated 2016-08-31 · Accessed 2026-09-26 · Patient information: combined CNS depressants
Counterfeit products
Pills from an unregulated source may imitate prescription medicines. Their appearance does not establish contents.
Sources & review notes
- Fentanyl
CDC · Published/updated 2025-06-09 · Accessed 2026-09-26 · Illicit fentanyl, contamination and testing limits
Warning signs
Trouble waking or abnormal breathing needs 911. Naloxone reverses opioid effects temporarily; waking does not remove the need for emergency assessment.
Sources & review notes
- Access to Naloxone Can Save a Life During an Opioid Overdose
FDA · Accessed 2026-09-26 · Temporary reversal, emergency response, OTC access
Interaction records
This resource provides general education, not medical advice or personal clearance to use a substance. No drug or combination is risk-free. For an emergency, call 911.