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Opioid Pain Relievers (e.g., OxyContin, Fentanyl) and Diving Analgesics chemically related to morphine typically are Schedule II narcotics available by prescription only. While quite effective at controlling moderate to severe pain, taken over a sufficient period it will, like all opioid analgesics, result in tolerance and dependence. Sadly, drugs like OxyContin have been subject to much abuse and the manufacturers have issued various cautions. The Food and Drug Administration and Drug Enforcement Administration also have issued public warnings. Opioid medications can have side effects of concern to divers, including nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, dizziness, headache, weakness, anxiety, euphoria and confusion. Not only could any of these adversely safe scuba, but some could be mistaken for the signs and symptoms of decompression illness and vice-versa. While not all side effects are likely to appear in every user, and often moderate with continuing time on the drug, there is no guarantee they will dissipate altogether. Persons taking narcotics frequently express that they function at a higher level (pun intended) and are sharper on the drug than off. One of the well known effects of such drugs is their production of feelings of well-being and contentment, feelings often not consistent with the user's reality. Objective assessments of neurocognitive performance often show abnormalities. Drugs of this class are especially worrisome when used in combination with other products that may depress the central nervous system such as alcohol, antidepressants, antihistamines, tranquilizers, seizure medicines, muscle relaxants and other certain other pain relievers. Dangerous dizziness or drowsiness well could result by combining opioid narcotics with these types of drugs, as could respiratory depression, possibly fatal. The effect of depth on opioid drug activity per se is unknown, but it would not be unreasonable to suspect that the effects of nitrogen narcosis on mentation and behavior could be additive with those of the medication. While not necessarily an absolute contraindication to scuba, given the above facts the diver taking an opioid analgesic will want to be medically cleared to dive. Any limitations or risks imposed by the condition for which the narcotic has been prescribed also must be considered. This is educational only and does not constitute or imply a doctor-patient relationship. It is not medical advice to you or any other individual and should not be construed as such. Consult with your physician before taking a drug and diving. © Doc Vikingo Back
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