By: Lakeview Health
Polysubstance use disorder describes the addiction to two or more chemical substances. In layman’s terms, this means a person abuses more than one drug. Polysubstance abuse is common in America and is a reason many people seek treatment at a drug and alcohol facility nearby. This is a serious condition, especially when the substances used are dangerous together. For instance, Xanax and alcohol both have depressant properties. This means they both slow respiration. When taken together, they can cause your heart to cease beating. If you’re currently using Xanax and alcohol together, there are several things you should know, and factors that you should consider.
If you or someone you care about is combining any substances — especially Xanax and alcohol — don’t hesitate to get the help you need as soon as possible. One way to do this is to reach out to Lakeview Health today using our convenient online form or call us at [Direct]. Our compassionate, expert team of addiction specialists is waiting to give you the tools you need to achieve genuine, long-term recovery.
Xanax Is the Brand Name of a Powerful Benzodiazepine
Xanax is the brand name of alprazolam, a drug used to treat multiple medical conditions, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Panic disorder
- A range of phobias
- Seizure disorder
As a benzodiazepine, Xanax is commonly prescribed and may be helpful in treating insomnia and muscle ache. Xanax is a central nervous system drug that affects the way your nerves send messages to your brain. It also slows your breathing to help you feel calmer and more relaxed.
Generally, people take Xanax because they have problems relaxing or because they worry more than most. A physician may prescribe Xanax or a similar drug if a patient can’t sleep at night for the thoughts racing through their head. It may be a good fit for someone who frequently feels fear for little to no reason or for someone who is often on edge. For these patients, benzodiazepine drugs can be immensely helpful. However, if they are mixed with other drugs, such as alcohol, they may do more harm than good.
Alcohol Suppresses the Central Nervous System
Just like Xanax, alcohol slows messages sent to the brain. Additionally, it slows the heart rate as well. When you combine two drugs that work the same way in your body, the effects are amplified. Using these two together may have major consequences that include:
- Severe confusion
- Stumbling and falling
- Pronounced drowsiness
- Poor motor control
- Severe dizziness
These are the symptoms that may be visible to others, but mixing Xanax and alcohol can have unseen consequences, too. Working together, they may cause you to fall asleep and never awaken. This happens when your breathing slows to the point where your heart ceases to beat.
Recovering from a Substance Use Disorder Involving Xanax and Alcohol
Recovery from polysubstance use disorder is entirely possible, but it usually requires professional medical intervention. Both alcohol and benzodiazepines have severe side effects associated with withdrawal. Aside from being uncomfortable or painful, they may be deadly, as well. If you struggle with a substance use disorder that involves mixing Xanax with alcohol, seek out a drug and alcohol addiction treatment program nearby to help you through detox.
Find Help for Xanax and Alcohol Addiction at Lakeview Health
If you need professional support to recover from drug, alcohol, or polysubstance use disorder, Lakeview Health is available to help. With campuses in Jacksonville, FL, Lakeview Health is well situated to assist clients throughout the southern United States. When you seek admission to our drug and alcohol treatment programs, you’ll find the support needed to achieve lifelong recovery.
Lakeview Health offers excellence in behavioral healthcare for adult men and women who struggle with substance use disorder. We employ highly trained trauma-informed therapists experienced in treating addiction. We can help even if you have complications in the way of co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, or panic. When you trust us with your recovery, you’ll find compassion and support, not judgment.
If you’re ready to recover, contact Lakeview Health at [Direct]. Our experienced representatives are waiting to walk you through admission and into a life of sobriety. Your future is bright. Begin moving toward it today.
