What are the dangers of mixing Xanax and alcohol? Combining these two substances can have severe and potentially fatal consequences. If you or someone you know makes it a habit to mix substances—specifically Xanax and alcohol—you may want to consider enrollment in an alcohol rehab program. Call 844.875.5609 to speak with someone from Promises Behavioral Health about alcohol addiction or a dual diagnosis treatment program.
About Xanax
Xanax is a benzodiazepine and a depressant for the central nervous system (CNS). Doctors prescribe Xanax to treat anxiety disorders or panic attacks. It is one of the most prescribed benzos on the market today.
Something to note when thinking about the dangers of mixing Xanax and alcohol is that Xanax, by itself, can still cause someone substantial harm. The side effects of Xanax abuse and addiction include the following:
- Excessive tiredness
- Memory issues
- Difficulty concentrating
- Slurred speech
- Dizziness
And like any addiction, you may also experience withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit taking Xanax.
About Alcohol
Alcohol is another CNS depressant. It works by slowing down the communication between the brain and body, which can give someone a sense of relaxation or euphoria. People often drink alcohol for its effects—its ability to reduce stress and make them feel more social or confident.
Like Xanax, alcohol can cause side effects of its own if abused or overused:
- Slurred speech
- Blurry vision
- Dizziness
- Loss of coordination and balance
- Vomiting
- Memory loss
Someone going through alcohol withdrawal can also experience delirium tremens (DTs), which can be fatal.
The Dangers of Mixing Xanax and Alcohol
Xanax and alcohol produce similar effects on the body. Xanax releases gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and dopamine in the central nervous system. Both neurotransmitters simultaneously produce a soothing feeling and a euphoric effect. In other words, you feel relaxed and feel good simultaneously. Alcohol acts as a stimulant and depressant during different phases of its impact on the body. It releases high levels of dopamine, which produces feelings of pleasure. However, alcohol also releases GABA, which leads to a relaxed feeling—too much alcohol results in intoxication. As a result, you may experience inhibition in certain behaviors or slowed motor skills.
It is dangerous to consume Xanax and alcohol at the same time. If you overdose on Xanax and alcohol, you may experience side effects such as:
- Increase fatigue or lethargy
- Lightheadedness
- Irritability or feelings of restlessness
- Cardiovascular or respiratory problems
- Potential to go into a coma
- Liver or kidney damage
If you continue to use Xanax and alcohol for extended periods, you increase the risk of having severe life-altering health problems. You may also develop a dependency or addiction to both substances. If so, you should seek help at a substance abuse treatment center in Texas, Tennessee, or whichever state you reside in.
How Detox and Addiction Treatment Can Help
Addiction treatment begins with entering a detox center. Detox allows you to get clean and prepare for rehab. During detox, you may experience multiple withdrawal symptoms. Your symptoms may also be worse if you are addicted to Xanax and alcohol at the same time. Addiction treatment specialists can provide medication-assisted treatment (MAT), holistic therapy, and counseling during this time.
Once you complete your detox, you may enter a rehab program. Your therapist will provide individual and group therapy and specialized treatment to help you get through rehab successfully. You may also undergo dual diagnosis as a part of your treatment. If you are taking Xanax because of depression or anxiety, a specialist can treat your mental health condition and addiction. You can get the treatment you need to manage your condition and recover from substance abuse.
Find Xanax and Alcohol Addiction Treatment with Promises Behavioral Health
If you are currently addicted to Xanax and alcohol, you can get help from a Promises addiction treatment center. To learn more about our treatment programs and get the help you or your loved one needs, contact Promises today at 844.875.5609.