Mixing Lortab & Alcohol | Effects & Health Risks

Lortab and alcohol should not be used together. The side effects of mixing these two substances can be dangerous and even life-threatening. 

How Lortab Works

Lortab is the brand name for the combination of hydrocodone (an opioid) and acetaminophen (a non-opioid analgesic). It’s a central nervous system (CNS) depressant and prescription drug used to treat severe pain. 

This pain reliever works by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain and stimulating the release of dopamine and other neurotransmitters. Like other painkillers, these neurotransmitters work to lessen the sensation of pain.  

Lortab is similar to other pain medications like Norco, Lorcet, and Vicodin.

Potential Side Effects

The side effects of Lortab may include: 

• nausea
• vomiting
• drowsiness
• difficulty concentrating
• mood swings
• itching
• anxiety

The effects of Lortab can become much worse when mixed with alcohol, and Lortab can enhance the negative side effects of alcohol.

Effects Of Mixing Lortab & Alcohol

The effects of Lortab can become much worse when mixed with alcohol, especially if you suffer from alcohol addiction. Lortab and alcohol can produce serious side effects such as:

• respiratory depression or shallow breathing
• drowsiness
• dizziness
• weakness
• memory loss
• slurred speech
• impaired coordination
• liver damage
• low heart rate
• low blood pressure
• Confusion

Taking both substances at once is a form of drug abuse, and frequently using them together can also increase the risk of substance use disorder. 

Risks Of Mixing Lortab & Alcohol

Alcohol use alongside Lortab use can increase the risk of severe health problems, including:

Liver Damage

Both acetaminophen and hydrocodone can harm the liver in large quantities and lead to cirrhosis and liver failure. 

Alcohol is also well-known for causing liver problems when used on its own for long periods of time. When it’s used with Lortab, the effects on the liver can be even more damaging.

Substance Use Disorder

On its own, Lortab can be habit-forming and alcohol is notorious for being addictive. Together, they can create a dependence that’s hard to break. This mental health condition is especially difficult for people who have a family history of substance abuse.

Opioid Overdose

Any time two harmful substances are taken together, the risk for overdose increases. It’s not any different with alcohol and Lortab. 

Alcohol can impair your judgment leading you to drink more alcohol or take more Lortab than you normally would, increasing the risk of overdose. If not treated, an overdose can be fatal.

Difficulty Breathing & Heart Issues

Because both Lortab and alcohol are depressants, they can slow down the body’s functions. When taken together, your heartbeat and breathing can become so slow that they stop. 

If your heart is not pumping fast enough or you’re not getting enough oxygen, there is an increased risk of coma and death.

Accidental Injury

Using alcohol and Lortab together also heightens the risk of accidents and injuries. With the loss of coordination, lack of concentration, confusion, and dizziness, the likelihood of accidentally getting hurt or possibly hurting someone else by accident increases.

Addiction Treatment For Lortab & Alcohol Abuse

Many treatment options exist for those struggling with alcohol and Lortab abuse. 

Detox Programs

The first step of treatment is likely going to a medically supervised detox program. These programs help people deal with withdrawal symptoms in a safe environment and with the help of a healthcare provider.

Inpatient/Outpatient Treatment Centers

After detox, there are a number of different inpatient and outpatient treatment facilities offering services that may include:

• behavioral therapy
• family counseling
• holistic activities
• medication-assisted treatment
• support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, please call our helpline today.