More than 90 percent of all people in the United States who are addicted to a substance is also using another substance. In many cases, using more than one substance at the same time is what leads to side effects, health problems, and fatalities. For instance, Xanax and alcohol side effects are common if both substances are taken at the same time. Xanax is a benzodiazepine that is highly addictive due to its euphoric effects on the brain. When you take Xanax as prescribed, then it is relatively safe to use. However, when you combine it with alcohol, you increase the risk of an overdose due to the combination or mixture of substances. Even if you do not overdose, you may experience some side effects, which can be harmful or fatal without help from a Xanax detox center in Utah.

Why Are Xanax and Alcohol Dangerous?

Xanax falls under the class of benzodiazepine. As such, it acts as a depressant on your central nervous system. Doctors prescribe Xanax to treat depression, panic attacks, or anxiety. On rare occasions, a treatment center may prescribe it to help your withdrawal symptoms during detox. Alcohol is simultaneously a stimulant and a depressant. In the first few moments after you drink alcohol, it stimulates the release of dopamine in your brain. This creates feelings of pleasure or excitement. Soon after, however, alcohol will act as a depressant and slow your nervous system down. This is why you feel intoxicated when you drink it. The stimulant in alcohol counters the effects of Xanax. The depressant in alcohol can reinforce the effects of Xanax causing an intense depression in your central nervous system. As a result, you may feel drowsy, dizzy, disoriented, or even pass out. If you are heavily sedated, you risk numerous side effects.

Side Effects of Combining Xanax and Alcohol

When you take Xanax or alcohol independently, you will experience a relaxed or mildly sedated feeling (assuming that you take the recommended amount of each). Together, however, Xanax and alcohol side effects may include:

• Vertigo

• Fainting or feeling dizzy

• Depressed respiratory function

• Inability to breathe

• Slowed motor skills (slurred speech)

• Memory loss

You may also experience other side effects such as lower pulse, nausea & vomiting, anxiety, agitation, delirium, seizures, coma, or even death. If you experience any side effects, you should contact your doctor or visit the ER immediately. Do not delay taking action if you are feeling terrible after taking Xanax and drinking alcohol.

Get Help for Xanax and Alcohol Side Effects

Xanax and alcohol side effects can happen as a result of an overdose or a long-term addiction. If you have a dependency one or both of the substances, Acqua Recovery can help. We offer full inpatient and outpatient treatment for addiction. To find out more about the services available to you, call us at 866.830.4628. We can help you get on the road to recovery.