You might consider the fact that my observations come from someone who doesn't mind having a drink or two, but who absolutely HATES being drunk. I don't like not being able to control my thoughts/actions, etc.
BTW - painkillers & partying can be a recipe for disaster (painkillers don't mix with driving or drinking). I wouldn't advise trying that again.
When I had surgery for my colon tumor a while back, I made this mistake. I was taken pain meds for a couple weeks (along with several other pills) and got invited to a party without thinking about the meds. That screwed me up big time. Never again.