The fact of the matter is that mixing alcohol and other substances is a regular occurrence. It can even be promoted by celebrities on social media and other platforms (an often promoted drink called “sizzurp,” which mixes codeine and alcohol, for example). However, what is not promoted is how dangerous mixing substances and alcohol can be. This is especially true with Xanax and alcohol use.
Better Understanding Xanax Misuse and Xanax Addiction
Xanax is the brand name of the benzodiazepine alprazolam. According to the Journal of Addiction Medicine, “Alprazolam is one of the most widely prescribed benzodiazepines for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. Its clinical use has been a point of contention as most addiction specialists consider it to be highly addictive, given its unique psychodynamic properties, which limit its clinical usefulness. In contrast, many primary care physicians continue to prescribe it for longer periods than recommended.”
Of course, it does not have to be prescribed for people to misuse the substance. It is also important to highlight that an individual can develop an addiction regardless of whether they are prescribed. As stated in Psychiatric Services, “A total of 30.6 million adults (12.6%) reported past-year benzodiazepine use-25.3 million (10.4%) as prescribed and 5.3 million (2.2%) misuse. Misuse accounted for 17.2% of overall use. Also, ”Benzodiazepine use among U.S. adults was higher than previously reported, and misuse accounted for nearly 20% of use overall.” This misuse becomes even more dangerous when it involves Xanax and alcohol interactions.
What Happens When You Mix Xanax and Alcohol?
Individuals will mix Xanax and alcohol to achieve a greater “euphoric” and relaxing effect. The issue is this euphoria does not come without its risks to well-being.
Upon mixing Xanax and alcohol, most individuals will start to feel fatigued and lethargic. They may also begin to feel lightheaded, which makes this combination particularly dangerous for individuals driving or engaged in machinery-related activities. Mixing these two substances has also been shown to affect an individual’s mood. These effects can often lead to aggression and irritability.
Another issue with mixing these two substances is that the body cannot metabolize or break down Xanax properly when alcohol is in the system. This intensifies the effects of Xanax and keeps it in one’s system longer. One of the most dangerous aspects of drinking on Xanax is that it can lead to slowed breathing and respiratory problems, which increases the likelihood of overdoses and potential overdose deaths.
The Long-Term Consequences of Xanax and Alcohol Use
There is little doubt that Xanax and alcohol use is extremely dangerous. This includes when the two are combined over a long period. According to the American Journal of Managed Care, “When benzodiazepines and alcohol are used concurrently, their sedative effects significantly increase the risk of adverse events, including fatal overdose… Long-term consequences of combined benzodiazepine and alcohol use include cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hepatic, kidney, and neurologic injury and exacerbation of psychiatric conditions.”
The long-term consequences of mixing Xanax and alcohol are not just physical either. It can have consequences on one’s home life, school or work life, financial stability, and social standing. Due to these consequences, it can be crucial that professional help be sought as soon as possible if Xanax and alcohol misuse are suspected or detected.
Treating Co-Occurring Addictions Like Xanax and Alcohol Use
Co-occurring addictions like Xanax and alcohol addiction must be treated together. This includes the potential need for a detox.
Co-occurring addictions are often treated with a multi-angled approach. This includes utilizing psychotherapeutic modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Including holistic wellness tools in one’s recovery plan can also be extremely helpful. For example, yoga has many benefits that can be utilized for someone struggling with Xanax and alcohol addiction.
According to the International Journal of Yoga (IJOY), “Yogic practices enhance muscular strength and body flexibility, promote and improve respiratory and cardiovascular function, promote recovery from and treatment of addiction, reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain, improve sleep patterns, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life.” Also, connecting to a recovery community, like a 12-Step community, can be highly beneficial for maintaining long-term recovery from co-occurring addictions.
Healing at the Cellular Level With The Phoenix Recovery Center
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we aim to help clients heal at the cellular level. This means healing the mind, body, and spirit. We do this by ensuring that our clients have comprehensive recovery plans created just for them.
Xanax and alcohol use can be extremely destructive. However, there is a solution. We are here to offer it, and we are here to make sure that the solution remains strong and sticks around long after a client leaves our recovery center doors.
It is not uncommon for people to abuse both Xanax and alcohol at the same time, which is extremely dangerous and can lead to overdose and overdose death. This combination can also lead to Xanax addiction, alcohol addiction, or co-occurring addictions. The good news is there are many effective treatment options for co-occurring addictions. If you feel like you or a loved one are struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or co-occurring disorders, we can help get you on the right road to recovery right away. For more information about the dangers of combined Xanax and alcohol use, please reach out to The Phoenix Recovery Center today at (801) 438-3185.
