Xanax (also called alprazolam) is a commonly prescribed medication for anxiety and panic disorders—which are some of the most common mental health disorders worldwide. This drug works by increasing the effects of GABA, which calms the nervous system and reduces anxiety.
Alcohol, on the other hand, is a substance ingrained in many cultures across the globe. Technically, it’s a depressant, acting on the central nervous system to slow down brain function and neural activity. However, it’s frequently used to “let loose” or relax after a tough day. Yet, this doesn’t mean it can’t be dangerous, especially when used in excess or combined with other substances—like Xanax.
In fact, combining alcohol and Xanax can be very dangerous since they amplify one another’s effects. This can lead to serious physical and mental health consequences, including overdosing, life-threatening respiratory depression, and severe impairments. In this article, we take a look at Xanax and alcohol and why mixing the two is never recommended.
How Xanax and Alcohol Affect the Body
Xanax is categorized as a benzodiazepine. This means it binds to GABA-A receptors—enhancing the effects of GABA, reducing neural activity, and producing calming effects. As a result, this medication can help those experiencing anxiety disorders and panic attacks, making these mental health conditions more manageable in daily life.
Like Xanax, alcohol is also a central nervous system depressant. Yet, its effects extend beyond the GABA-A receptors; alcohol also acts on the NMDA receptors, which furthers its depressant effects on the brain and body. Alcohol can further increase serotonin and dopamine in the body, which can lead to misuse or excessive consumption.
All of the above means that when mixing Xanax and alcohol, adverse effects can occur. For instance, together, they elicit a stronger depressant effect on the body; the sedative effects of the two can also lead to slowed breathing, which can be dangerous. Accidents may also be more likely to happen due to their sedative effects and potential cognitive impairments.
These two substances are both linked to memory loss, which can be greater when they are combined. They may also lead to an accidental overdose (more on this below).
Short-Term and Long-Term Dangers
The dangers of mixing Xanax with alcohol shouldn’t go unrecognized. Even the immediate dangers of mixing the two can be potentially life-threatening and include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Impaired motor skills
- Memory loss
- Increased risk of accidents
- Increased risk of overdose
Long-term consequences of mixing Xanax and alcohol further may involve:
- Polysubstance addiction: This type of addiction can be more challenging to treat due to more intense withdrawal symptoms. However, it’s worth noting that it’s not impossible to overcome addiction to Xanax and alcohol; with the right treatment and a desire to overcome one’s addiction, it’s entirely possible to make addiction a thing of the past.
- Tolerance build-up: When regularly using both substances, you can build up a tolerance to both, which may mean higher doses are necessary to achieve the same effects. This can further increase the risk of overdosing.
- Long-term cognitive impairments: This could significantly impact your memory, ability to concentrate, and learning skills in the long term.
- Liver damage: Since both substances get metabolized by the liver, long-term use can damage this vital organ.
- Increased mental health issues: The Xanax interaction with alcohol may also increase the risk of (or exacerbate) anxiety, depression, or even, in some cases, psychosis.
Why Mixing Xanax and Alcohol Can Be Fatal
This combination creates a potentially lethal synergy, meaning it can be fatal. This is why it’s highly advised not to mix the two. Research shows that the sedative effects of Xanax are increased when combined with alcohol. This combination is also shown to cause impaired reaction time and reduced verbal, spatial, and numeric working memory.
On top of the above, research further shows that:
- In 2010, alcohol was involved in 27.2% of benzodiazepine-related visits.
- In 2010, alcohol was involved in 21.4% of benzodiazepine-related deaths in US emergency departments.
- Long-term consequences of combining these two substances also can lead to cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hepatic, kidney, and neurologic injury.
Data from 2015-2016 shows that alcohol use disorder (AUD) is associated with an increased risk of benzodiazepine use disorder and misuse.
These statistics signify the importance of avoiding mixing of Xanax and alcohol; simply put, it’s not worth the risk.
Signs of Overdose
If you or someone you love is mixing Xanax and alcohol, it’s important to know the signs of an overdose. Xanax-alcohol overdose symptoms may involve:
- Sleepiness
- Loss of consciousness/coma
- Confusion
- Impaired coordination
- Reduced or impaired reflexes
- Respiratory depression/failure
If you suspect someone is experiencing a Xanax-alcohol overdose, immediately call 911. This is a life-threatening situation that requires emergency medical care.
Treatment for Xanax and Alcohol Misuse
While it can be challenging to treat co-occurring addictions like Xanax and alcohol, there is hope. The first step is seeking out help. From here, your treatment or rehabilitation program may include:
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Medically-supervised detox
- Mental health therapies
- Lifestyle modifications
It’s important to note that due to the high potential of withdrawal symptoms with co-occurring addictions, most often, treatment is carried out (at least initially) under medical supervision. This can help you cope with corresponding symptoms and get the help you need and deserve.
Conclusion
Overall, mixing Xanax and alcohol can be very dangerous and even a lethal combination. If you or someone you know is struggling with these substances, encourage them to seek medical help. With the right program, treatment, and support, it’s entirely possible to overcome addiction and lead a healthy and long life.
References
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/anxiety-disorders
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26466222/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK5284/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6826820/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/xanax-and-alcohol#xanax-and-alcohol-side-effects
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10714690/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7217068/
