Is it safe to take Xanax with oxycodone or other opioids?
Also searched as: Percocet, Norco, alprazolam, clonazepam
Short answer
This combination carries an FDA boxed warning. Together they can cause extreme sleepiness, slowed or stopped breathing, coma and death. Only take both if your prescriber has specifically planned it.
Why it happens
Opioids and benzodiazepines both slow down the central nervous system and breathing. Their effects add up, and the risk is higher with alcohol or other sedating medicines.
What to do
- Make sure every prescriber knows about both medicines.
- Never add alcohol, sleep aids or other sedating medicines.
- Ask your pharmacist about naloxone (Narcan) to keep at home.
Signs to watch for
- Unusual dizziness or sleepiness
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Trouble waking up: call 911
If symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Sources
Last reviewed November 4, 2026. For education only, not medical advice. Talk to your pharmacist or prescriber before changing anything.
