Medication Safety
Dr. Anita Aderinkomi provides professional insight to answer your medication questions
Member: I’ve been taking medication for a while to manage pain after surgery. Lately, I’ve started feeling anxious. I’m thinking about asking my doctor about Xanax or something similar. Is it safe to take my opioid medication with a prescription like Xanax? — Glenn, Lino Lakes
Dr. Aderinkomi: Thanks for asking, Glenn. This is a very important topic. The short answer is no, mixing opioids with medications like Xanax is not safe. Both slow down your nervous system, and taking them together can cause serious problems like trouble breathing, extreme drowsiness or even death.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that taking opioids and benzodiazepines together greatly increases the risk of overdose or emergency care. Make sure to discuss your anxiety with your doctor and explore safe treatment options together.
Since you’re on an opioid pain medication, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting anything new. Long-term use of opioids can increase your tolerance to the medication, meaning you might need higher doses to get the same effect.
It can also cause addiction and side effects like depression, constipation, weak bones, irregular heartbeat and an increased risk of heart attack.
There are many opioid alternatives available to help manage pain. These can include over-the-counter medica- tions or other prescription drugs. Your doctor may also suggest treatments like mindfulness, exercise therapy or chiropractic care, which can help with both pain and anxiety.
Be sure to check what's covered by your health plan, because you may receive coverage for relevant over-the-counter products. By working with your doctor, you can find safe solutions that support your physical and mental health.
