About Mixing Drugs with Alcohol
Mixing alcohol and drugs can have negative side effects; however, many people overlook them. Some might have done so before without any adverse effects, others might forget about dangerous drug combinations, and there are those who may be in need of alcohol treatment and are seeking an intensified high from mixing. Regardless of why someone is mixing alcohol and drugs, it is important to understand the possible dangers. Below are only some common drugs that are mixed with alcohol.
If you or a loved one is in need of alcohol treatment, help is available, call Siam Rehab now.
Why is Combining Alcohol and Drugs Dangerous?
Alcohol affects the brain in many different ways. It increases the production of GABA, a chemical that helps people to make rational decisions. When there is too much GABA in the brain, it actually causes a decrease in functioning; hence, why people may have trouble moving or thinking when they are drunk. When there is too much GABA, the heart and lungs also slow down. While alcohol typically cannot because these organs to stop, other medications can. Therefore, it is possible for a combination of alcohol and certain drugs to exacerbate the effects and lead to an overdose or death.
The Liver
The liver is a vital organ that cleanses the body of toxins. However, alcohol and drugs, including OTC and prescription medications, can cause the liver stress. This is because the organ is responsible for processing these substances. When the liver recognises a drug as a poison, such as alcohol, it works extra hard to expel it from the body. Overtime, the liver becomes overworked and is no longer able to function properly. This is why so many alcoholics have some level of alcoholic liver disease. When a person is mixing drugs and alcohol, the risk of liver damage increases. Although it is possible to reverse some of this damage after alcohol rehab, or treatment, sometimes, the damage is so severe that it is permanent – as is the case with cirrhosis.
Drugs You Should Not Mix With Alcohol
There are many different drugs that should not be mixed with alcohol, or even other drugs for that matter. The following are some of the most common drugs that are combined with alcohol, as well as their potential effects.
Opioid / Opiate Painkillers
Opiates and opioids, including Fentanyl and Percocet, are strong drugs that claim the lives of thousands of people every year. Because they are available through prescription, many people don’t realise the possible dangers. When combined with alcohol, the results may include:
- A decreased heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Severe drowsiness
- Inability to breathe
- Reduced motor function
- Memory loss
- Fainting
- Loss of consciousness
- Death
If you or a loved one has mixed alcohol and prescription painkillers, and are noticing any of the aforementioned, please seek medical attention.
Sleeping Aid Medication
Popular sleep medications including Restoril, Ambien, and Lunesta are generally not dangerous when taken on their own, and as prescribed. However, when alcohol is mixed with sleeping medications, the side effects of both drugs can increase. Typically, an overdose is unlikely, but the greater the amount, the more likely this could occur. Unwanted effects may include:
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Inability to concentrate
- Memory loss
- Impaired motor function
It is possible to develop an addiction to some sleeping medications. Furthermore, it is not uncommon for a person in need of alcohol treatment to frequently take sleeping medication. If you notice this, you should be concerned.
Anxiety Medication
As an alcohol treatment centre, we know many clients who have high anxiety; therefore, drink alcohol because it helps them to feel at ease. Because the connection between alcohol and anxiety is so strong, the two are often diagnosed with a co-occurring disorder.
Medication for anxiety (i.e. benzodiazepines) and alcohol do not mix well. Anyone who is taking a medication such as, but not limited to, Klonopin, Valium, or Xanax, should not consume alcohol. The effects can be serious or life threatening, especially when larger doses are used.
- Extreme dizziness
- Very drowsy
- Decreased heart rate
- Decreased breathing
- Heart arrhythmia
- Motor function impairment
- Memory problems
- Overdose
- Death
Xanax and alcohol overdoses are sadly common in the UK, the US, and Australia. While Xanax, and other benzodiazepines, share similar traits to muscle relaxers. Not only do they slow down part of the brain responsible for anxiety, they slow down the central nervous system. When the central nervous system slows down too much, it essentially shuts off. This is when an overdose occurs. When alcohol and Xanax is mixed, the person is putting themselves at risk for overdosing. If a person is unable to stop drinking alcohol while on benzodiazepines for anxiety, it could be an indicator that alcohol treatment in Thailand is needed.
General OTC Medication
Most people will have essential OTC medications, like paracetamol, aspirin, and naproxen sodium in their home. When taken on their own, and under the recommended guidelines, these medications do not have many side effects. However, when mixed with alcohol, there can be unpleasant effects. These effects could exacerbate when underlying medical conditions are present.
- Nausea
- Ulcers
- Liver damage
- Intestinal damage
- Stomach bleeding
- Increased blood pressure
- Rapid heartbeat
- Irritability
When alcohol and OTC medications are consumed for an extended period of time, the long term effects can be serious. Many heavy alcohol users mix OTC medications during or after drinking to alleviate the sensations of a hangover. It is important to drink plenty of water to reduce the effects and to prevent you from having to take these drugs.
Cough Syrup (DXM)
Cough syrups containing DXM, or dextromethorphan, are used to suppress coughs and colds. Young adults and adolescents may abuse DXM for it’s high-like effects. At festivals and party’s people may consume alcohol and DXM to intensify the effects of both drugs. DXM depresses the respiratory system; this function is what helps the user to stop coughing. When DXM and alcohol are mixed, it can be a dangerous combination. Side effects may include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness and confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Inability to breathe
- Reduced blood pressure
- Overdose
Do You Mix Drugs and Alcohol Because You Can’t Stop? Perhaps You Like the Effects, But You Know You Need Help?
Some drugs should never be mixed with other drugs or alcohol. Doing so could have devastating consequences. However, every day millions of people in the world mix drugs and alcohol. When a person is unable to stop mixing dangerous combinations, there could be a larger problem at hand. It is possible that they are addicted to alcohol, drugs, or both. Luckily help is available. If you find yourself mixing dangerous drugs, or in situations that could be causing you harm, alcohol treatment may be right for you. To learn more, please call Siam Rehab today.
