Alcohol and Xanax are commonly mixed, which is much more dangerous than most people are aware of. Both substances have similar effects and suppress the respiratory system, easily leading to overdose, coma, and even death. These substances should never be mixed, even in small doses.
Alcohol and Xanax is a Dangerous Combination
It is easy to encounter both of these substances because they are legal and readily available. Granted, Alprazolam, known as Xanax among other names, needs to be prescribed by your doctor but it is still fairly easy to obtain if you go to any doctor. You can even find it on the street or from friends and family members because it is commonly prescribed. Alcohol is even more readily available and completely legal. Most adults are even expected to drink – it is out of the norm if they do not. Because these two substances are so commonplace, you may not realize just how dangerous mixing the two really is. Even separate, when taken in excess the consequences can be deadly.
Both alcohol and Xanax are processed by the liver using the same enzymes. Because they need to go through the same process, it takes the body longer to get rid of them, meaning they have time to build up and easily lead to overdose. Xanax is classified as a benzodiazepine, commonly referred to as a “benzo”. It controls seizure activity, reduces anxiety and depression, and helps with insomnia. It is fast acting and had an immediate impact an on the central nervous system. It absolutely should never be taken with alcohol or any other drug that can depress the central nervous system too, because it is easy for your body to become overwhelmed.
Warning labels on Xanax prescription bottles are there for a reason, although an unfortunate number of people ignore them. Others mention Alprazolam vs. Xanax meaning there is a difference in which there is not. Alprazolam is the clinical name and Xanax is the brand name. It is important to know that combining drugs can lead to life-threatening consequences. Alcohol and Xanax both exaggerate each other’s effect on one another. So, by drinking, you are making the Xanax stronger, and also making the alcohol stronger. It is incredibly dangerous to drive, and you can even have accidents like trips and falls because your motor skills will be severely compromised. It is also easy to become unconscious. It may seem like you are just falling asleep, but with the two substances in your system, you can easily stop breathing. It can also lead to severe cardiac problems and death.
Abusing Xanax and alcohol together long term can produce irreversible effects that you’ll have problems with for the rest of your life. You can experience major problems with depression and anxiety, insomnia, issues with your memory and thinking clearly. Addiction is a very real threat because both substances are highly addictive, and difficult and dangerous to quit cold turkey.
Alcohol and Xanax are two of the only substances known to cause Delirium Tremens when they are stopped abruptly. It is essential to withdraw from these substances in a medically supervised environment so that precautions can be taken to avoid a medical emergency. Quitting cold turkey on your own can easily lead to seizures, hallucination, anxiety and agitation, insomnia, cold sweats, nightmares, and in extreme cases coma and death.
Alcohol and Xanax addiction isn’t to be taken lightly, even though they are two substances that are commonly found in household everywhere. Never mix the two together with each other or anything else. If you do think you may be addicted to one or both, get help as soon as possible. The earlier you get help for your addiction, the easier detox will be. With treatment, you can get through your withdrawal symptoms without a problem and go on to lead a happy and healthy life.
