Millions of people in the United States take prescription medications to manage anxiety and other conditions. Xanax is one of the most commonly prescribed medications used to treat anxiety, panic, insomnia, and other conditions. It is also one of the most frequently abused benzodiazepines.
Surveys show that most adults in the US report drinking alcohol at least occasionally. It can be dangerous to drink alcohol while taking certain medications, including Xanax.
Combining Xanax and alcohol can have dangerous consequences. This article will explore the potential risks of mixing alcohol and Xanax. You will learn:
- The effects of Xanax
- The risks of abusing Xanax
- How to recognize alcohol abuse and addiction
- How to treat substance abuse
- Where to find comprehensive substance abuse treatment
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, you are not alone. Learn more about the risks of mixing benzodiazepines and alcohol or find treatment by contacting The Living Room specialists today.
What is Xanax?
Xanax is the brand name for a drug called alprazolam. It is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines slow central nervous system (CNS) activity. Xanax works by increasing the amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which can reduce anxiety.
Doctors often prescribe benzodiazepines to help patients manage symptoms of anxiety disorder, panic disorders, and other conditions. People may experience relief from anxiety symptoms when using Xanax as prescribed.
Benzodiazepines like Xanax have the potential for unwanted side effects, misuse, and addiction. People may misuse Xanax by:
- Taking larger doses than prescribed
- Taking it more frequently than prescribed
- Taking it for a longer period than prescribed
- Using it recreationally (without a prescription)
Ongoing benzodiazepine abuse can lead to physical dependence and addiction.
The Effects and Risks of Xanax Abuse
Like all drugs, Xanax can cause side effects. Users may experience side effects while using Xanax, including:
- Poor concentration
- Headaches
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Irritability
- Changes in libido
- Dry mouth
- Loss of coordination
- Joint pain
- Constipation
Surveys show that around 17 million people in the United States reported taking Xanax in the previous year. Of those, about a million reported misusing it. Misusing Xanax can lead to dangerous side effects, including:
- Fainting
- Hallucinations
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Severe drowsiness
- Loss of concsiounsee
- Seizures
- Difficulty speaking
- Memory issues
- Respiratory depression
Misusing Xanax by taking larger doses or mixing it with other substances increases the risk of life-threatening complications.
Is Mixing Xanax and Alcohol Safe?
Mixing alcohol and Xanax is unsafe, and most medical professionals advise against it. Alcohol and Xanax both suppress CNS activity. Combining them increases the sedative effects of both substances. People who combine alcohol and Xanax may experience serious side effects, including:
- Dangerously low blood pressure
- Slow heart rate
- New or worsening symptoms of mental health disorders
- Dangerously depressed (slow and shallow) breathing that results in a lack of oxygen to the brain
- Liver and kidney damage
- Hallucinations, delusions, psychosis, and other neurological symptoms
- Loss of consciousness
In addition to these long-term effects, mixing alcohol and benzodiazepines increases the risk of overdose. An overdose is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
If you or someone near you is exhibiting signs of an overdose, call 911 immediately. Remain with the person until EMS arrives.
The Signs of Alcohol Abuse and Addiction
People who take Xanax must learn about the dangers of mixing Xanax and alcohol. Doctors typically advise people to abstain from drinking alcohol while taking Xanax.
But what if it is hard to limit or stop your alcohol consumption?
Finding it hard to stop drinking may be a sign of alcohol abuse or addiction. Some other signs of alcohol use disorder (AUD) include:
- Needing to drink more to get “buzzed” or being able to drink a lot without appearing intoxicated
- Taking risks while drinking, like driving drunk or having unprotected sex
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (shaking, sweating, nausea, anxiety, insomnia, etc.) if you stop drinking
- Frequently drinking more than you planned to
- Craving alcohol
- Wanting to reduce or stop drinking but finding it hard to do on your own
There are many treatment options available to help people stop drinking safely. If it is hard to control your drinking or drug use, seek treatment right away.
Treating Substance Abuse
Abusing prescription drugs like Xanax, illicit drugs, or alcohol can lead to addiction. Abusing drugs or alcohol can be immediately life-threatening and has the potential to cause long-term effects on your mental and physical health.
Getting treatment can help you overcome drug or alcohol abuse. During treatment, you will receive supervision, treatment, and support to address the complex roots of your substance abuse.
Since people have different needs during recovery, many programs and levels of care are available. You may attend inpatient or outpatient treatment programs and participate in a range of evidence-based therapies. These might include:
- Mental health treatment (medications, behavioral therapies, counseling, etc.)
- Medically-supported detox programs
- Relapse prevention education
- Aftercare programs
- Medications to reduce cravings and other withdrawal symptoms
You may also engage in holistic therapies, like exercise, nutrition support, outdoor recreation, art therapy, and more.
Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of substance abuse or addiction. The sooner you get help, the sooner you can begin to work toward the healthier future you deserve.
Find Treatment Now
The Living Room offers a range of comprehensive addiction treatment and recovery support programs. Reach out to our intake team to learn more about our treatment center or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal
- NIH: Benzodiazepine Use and Misuse Among Adults in the United States
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): Alcohol’s Effects on Health
- NIAAA: Alcohol Use in the United States: Age Groups and Demographic Characteristics
- NIH: Benzodiazepines and alcohol
- NIH: Acute administration of alprazolam, alcohol and their combination on cognitive performance and mood: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study