One of the most frequently prescribed drugs in the United States, benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that are specifically prescribed to treat problems like anxiety and insomnia. Doctors may also prescribe these substances to patients who suffer from seizures and muscle spasms, but, in a very unusual twist, benzodiazepines can also help men and women who are coping with alcohol withdrawal. Although these were initially created as a less harmful replacement for barbiturates, these drugs can still trigger severe forms of addiction, particularly a powerful substance called Xanax. So, imagine how dangerous a situation can become when someone combines this benzodiazepine with alcohol. Let’s take a closer look and find out more about this toxic drug mixture.
Deceptively Unsafe
One of the main reasons people actively misuse Xanax is the simple reason that the drug is marketed as being less addictive than Valium (and other relaxants). As a result, up to the year 2012, more and more people began seeking out this benzodiazepine for treatment. Although these numbers have declined in recent years, a 2015 study (Journal of American Medicine) confirmed that long-term use of Xanax can (in fact) be extremely dangerous. Even more disturbing, substance abusers and addicts will commonly mix Xanax with other substances, including alcohol.
Deadly, Depressant Twins
Much like Xanax, alcohol functions as central nervous system depressant. In that light, both drugs suppress nerve activity within this portion of the brain, which can result in bizarre, euphoric sensations. Here is a closer look at the side effects of combining Xanax with alcohol:
- Low doses of a Xanax/alcohol mix will produce overwhelming euphoria, uncontrolled behavior, and excitability.
- Higher doses of Xanax/alcohol mixtures can completely warp a victim’s consciousness and trigger near-fatal symptoms like a rapid decrease in heart rate and labored breathing.
- Ultimately, dangerous doses can trigger a potentially fatal overdose.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Addiction or Alcoholism
On their own, alcohol and sleep aides like Xanax can be extremely dangers and, in certain cases, can trigger severe forms of abuse and addiction. So, imagine the dangers of mixing these two substances together. Besides the obvious substance use problems, you will most likely suffer severe health repercussions including overdoses or strokes. Remember that you can always find help for your condition. Alcohol and drug problems might be pieces to a large spectrum of mental problems, but, like any issue, they can easily be alleviated with a little bit of strength and a lot of love for yourself.
If you, a friend, or loved one is suffering from a severe case of drug abuse or addiction, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process detox and withdrawal and guide you through each step of the rehabilitation process to help you separate yourself from these substances. The time to take back control of your life is now.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn about how you can overcome your attachment to drugs and alcohol today.
