Table of Contents
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is a prescription sedative medicine used to treat anxiety and panic. It was created in the 1960s and is one of the most prevalent anti-anxiety medications today. It is also commonly abused illegally. Xanax can’t be made outside of a pharmaceutical environment, so street Xanax isn’t actually Xanax, but instead a cocktail of other drugs with unregulated doses. Xanax works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, resulting in calmness and clarity.
Is Xanax Addictive?
Xanax can be addictive when taken in excess. Over time, a person builds up a tolerance to the medication, which causes them to take increasing amounts to obtain the same effects. Xanax mixed with alcohol increases the chance of addiction as well. Remember, the only safe dose of Xanax is the one prescribed by a doctor and taken responsibly.
What Happens When Alcohol and Xanax Are Combined?
How Long Do These Effects Last?
Why Do People Mix Alcohol and Xanax?
Short-Term Effects of Mixing Xanax and Alcohol
Sedation
Mood and Behavior Changes
Memory Problems
Long-Term Effects of Mixing Xanax and Alcohol
Changes in Weight or Appetite
Memory and Cognitive Difficulty
Memory and Cognitive Difficulty
Liver Damage and Failure
Liver damage is a significant risk when dealing with any form of addiction, but especially increases when suffering from alcoholism. The liver begins to form scar tissues and becomes unable to filter out substances. This means that filtering out Xanax can become harder and harder the longer one takes both substances. 2
Personality Changes
Cancer
Heart Disease and Stroke
Depression
How Long After Taking Xanax Can You Drink?
Can You Overdose on Xanax?
Can You Overdose on Alcohol?
Alcohol poisoning can occur when someone consumes alcohol in extreme excess. There will be many stages before fatal poisoning, including confusion, lethargy, and breathing issues, which can then lead to a fatal Xanax alcohol overdose. 4
Overdosing on Xanax and Alcohol Signs
Blue or Grey Skin
Confusion or Delirium
Cold, Clammy Skin
Cold, clammy skin happens for the same reason as the aforementioned skin discolorations. If a person has both skin discoloration and is cold to the touch, call medical services immediately.
Fixed Pupils
Slowed or Stopped Breathing
Mixing Xanax with alcohol can cause addiction and severe medical complications. If you or a loved one is struggling with drug cravings, then reach out to us. Stillwater Treatment specializes in providing care to people looking to overcome dependency. Don’t mix alcohol and Xanax. Call us instead.