Millions of people in the United States take prescription medications to manage a physical or mental health condition. Xanax is a commonly prescribed prescription drug used to treat anxiety. People who take Xanax can experience unwanted side effects. Abusing Xanax increases the risk of unwanted or dangerous side effects.
Drinking alcohol while taking Xanax can also lead to dangerous, sometimes life-threatening, side effects. People who take prescription Xanax must follow their doctor’s instructions on how to take it and what other substances to avoid. It is also critical to understand the risk of overdose, medical complications, and addiction. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize a problem.
This article will explore the danger of mixing Xanax and alcohol. You will learn:
- The effects and risks of Xanax abuse
- The dangers of mixing alcohol and Xanax
- The signs of Xanax and alcohol addiction
- What to expect during addiction treatment
- Where to find comprehensive treatment and recovery support programs
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find comprehensive treatment and support at Archstone Behavioral Health. Contact our treatment professionals to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Xanax?
Xanax is the brand name for a drug called alprazolam. Xanax is a benzodiazepine drug that reduces activity in the central nervous system (CNS). It affects a brain chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which plays a role in anxiety management.
Doctors may prescribe Xanax to help patients reduce symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders. In addition to reducing symptoms of anxiety, Xanax can also cause unwanted side effects, including:
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Drowsiness
- Loss of coordination
- Lightheadedness
- Joint pain
- Libido changes
- Irritability
Some people may experience euphoria when taking Xanax. These pleasurable effects can lead to abuse. Xanax abuse includes:
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- Taking Xanax more often than prescribed
- Taking Xanax for longer periods than prescribed
- Combining Xanax with other substances
Some people may abuse Xanax by taking it recreationally (without a prescription). Prolonged Xanax abuse puts people at risk of fatal overdoses and physical dependence. It is critical to seek treatment as soon as you recognize Xanax abuse.
The Side Effects and Risks of Xanax Abuse
Benzodiazepines like Xanax have a high risk for abuse and addiction. Misusing Xanax can lead to serious, sometimes dangerous side effects, including:
- Hallucinations
- Excessive drowsiness
- Memory problems
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- Difficulty speaking
- Fainting
- Respiratory depression
- Depression
Xanax abuse has serious risks. Mixing benzodiazepines and alcohol can have even more significant risks, including fatal overdose.
People must take prescription Xanax exactly as prescribed. Individuals who abuse it by taking it differently than prescribed or taking it recreationally must stop. If it is challenging to stop taking Xanax, you must seek treatment as soon as possible.
The Risks of Mixing Alcohol and Xanax
Alcohol and Xanax are both central nervous system depressants. Combining alcohol and Xanax increases the sedative effects of both substances.
Here is an overview of the most significant risks of mixing Xanax and alcohol.
Behavioral and mood changes
Alcohol and Xanax can both affect mood and behavior. Combining these substances increases their effects. People who mix alcohol and Xanax may experience:
- Confusion
- Depression with suicidal thoughts
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Aggressive behaviors
Talk to your doctor about what substance to avoid when taking prescription Xanax.
Cardiovascular effects
Xanax and alcohol can slow the heart rate, breathing, and other autonomic functions. Combining these substances increases the risk of cardiovascular problems, including dangerously low heart rate and blood pressure.
Neurological symptoms
People may experience neurological problems when combining alcohol and Xanax, including seizures, memory problems, and psychosis. Neurological symptoms may be more common among those who combine high doses of Xanax and alcohol.
Overdose
It is possible to overdose on alcohol and Xanax. Combining these substances increases the risk of a life-threatening overdose.
Liver and kidney damage
The liver and kidneys are both involved in metabolizing alcohol and Xanax. Combining these substances can strain these critical organs, leading to long-term damage over time.
Addiction
It is possible to develop an addiction to alcohol and benzodiazepines. Using them together can increase the risk of tolerance and physical dependence. People who abuse both substances may develop symptoms of addiction, including:
- Having cravings for Xanax or alcohol
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they stop using these substances
- Needing to use higher doses of these substances to get the desired effects
If you or someone you love abuses Xanax or alcohol, you are not alone. Treatment programs can help people with addiction explore and overcome the roots of substance abuse. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more or schedule an intake appointment.
Treating Alcohol and Xanax Addiction
It can be challenging to overcome an addiction to alcohol or Xanax. However, comprehensive treatment programs offer tailored, evidence-based therapies proven to be effective at helping people overcome substance use disorder (SUD).
Treatment for Xanax or alcohol addiction may include:
- Assessments and screenings
- Behavioral therapies
- Relapse prevention education
- Medication management
- Coping skills
- Individual, family, and group counseling
- Holistic therapies like nutrition support, mindfulness, exercise, breathwork, and more
- Aftercare planning
People may attend inpatient or outpatient treatment programs, depending on their needs. Archstone Behavioral Health offers a comprehensive range of holistic and effective programs, as well as recovery support services. Contact our intake team to learn more or make an appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Alprazolam
- NIH: A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal
- NIH: The effects of alprazolam alone and combined with alcohol on central integrative activity
- Science Direct: Driving impairment and altered ocular activity under the effects of alprazolam and alcohol: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
