According to data from the , about 28% of adults between the ages of 20 and 59 take prescription drugs at some point. Sometimes it is necessary to take more than one or two medications, but the wrong combo could have harmful consequences and could even be lethal. We should all be aware of these pairings and always ask a doctor before mixing drugs.
SSRIS + Opioids (antidepressants + analgesics)
Some antidepressants work by increasing levels of the “happy hormone” or serotonin. And certain pain relievers can have the same effect. Leading a person to experience too much of a good thing. Very high levels of serotonin can cause agitation, high body temperature, and rapid heart rate and breathing.
Opioids + Benzodiazepines (analgesics + anxiolytics)
Both types of drugs act as antidepressants and can provide sweet relief if you are very anxious or in severe pain – or very anxious when anticipating that you will feel intense pain (for example, because of a dental appointment). But these pills can also slow your heart and breathing rates, sometimes too much.
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Opioids + Benzodiazepines + Carisoprodol (analgesics + anxiolytics + muscle relaxant)
Most doctors know that this combo could be lethal. However, a patient might find himself taking all three medications—perhaps prescribed by three different doctors—if, say, he pulled his back and is struggling with intense stress at work.
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