Both Xanax (Alprazolam) and Gabapentin influence the central nervous system. Xanax is frequently used for anxiety. Meanwhile, Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant, often prescribed to reduce nerve pain and prevent seizures.
However, the use of both of these medications can potentially lead to serious complications and side effects. So, what are the risks involved? What should you know about mixing Xanax and Gabapentin?
What Are Xanax (Alprazolam) and Gabapentin?
Xanax (Alprazolam) is part of a class of medications called benzodiazepines. These medications work by producing a calming effect by increasing the GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid) — a natural chemical created in the body.
Xanax is usually taken as an oral medication to treat anxiety and panic disorders. But there are various side effects, including:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Change in libido
- Increased saliva production
Meanwhile, Gabapentin is used to help control seizures in individuals diagnosed with epilepsy. It’s also taken orally, either as a tablet, capsule, or oral solution.
Similarly, Gabapentin also has a few side effects that may occur, including:
- Drowsiness
- Tiredness
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Libido issues
- Weight gain
- Headaches
- Brain fog
- And more.
It’s worth noting that the side effects of Gabapentin can only occur for example in about 1 in 100 people. They’re often mild and go away on their own. However, if you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to bring them up with your healthcare provider.
The Dangers of Mixing Xanax and Gabapentin
Mixing Xanax and Gabapentin increases the risk of an accidental overdose. Yet, if you’re healthcare provider prescribes both, it’s likely they will monitor you closely and prescribe each at a lower dose. It may also be a short-term fix.
For instance, Xanax may be prescribed while you undergo therapy to uncover better ways to manage your anxiety disorder. At the same time, the potential short-term and long-term effects on the body and mind shouldn’t go unrecognized.
Short-Term Effects of Mixing Xanax and Gabapentin
The short-term effects of mixing these two drugs can pose serious problems for some individuals. Below, we take a closer look at the short-term effects that can lead to life-threatening or debilitating issues.
Respiratory Depression
Both of these drugs cause respiratory depression, which means that they slow down breathing. Together, they could amplify these effects, which could lead to breathing difficulties for some individuals and pose serious issues for those with existing respiratory problems. The FDA has even announced warnings about this particular side effect.
Increased Sedation
Since both medications cause drowsiness, together, this can be pronounced—especially in the elderly. This side effect can create hazards when operating heavy machinery or when driving. Thus, it’s often a good idea to see how the medications affect you before driving or performing more risky tasks.
Cognitive and Memory Problems
Gabapentin alone can lead to brain fog. When added to Xanax, it can lead to memory difficulties and cognitive impairments. Individuals may have trouble concentrating and experience confusion or memory troubles. Over time, this can significantly impact a person’s day-to-day life and quality of life.
Increased Risk of Overdose
As mentioned above, this risk shouldn’t go unnoticed. Since both drugs act on the nervous system, the combination has a higher risk of an accidental overdose. In some cases, this may involve extreme sedation. But, for others, it can be life-threatening.
Long-Term Effects of Mixing Xanax and Gabapentin
The biggest long-term risk is dependence and addiction. Both of these drugs can cause this, especially when used over a long time. This means that suddenly halting these drugs could also lead to withdrawal symptoms.
There is also the fact that an individual may eventually build up a tolerance to the current dose, requiring an increased dosage which can also be more risky. In turn, the above could also contribute to an even greater risk of an accidental overdose.
The long-term effects also involve the dangers mentioned in the short term, which may further worsen with long-term use.
Signs and Symptoms of Adverse Reactions
Common signs and symptoms of adverse reactions to Xanax and Gabapentin include:
- Excessive drowsiness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Dizziness
- Slurred speech
- Blurred vision
- Impaired motor function and coordination
Severe reactions that require immediate medical attention further include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Respiratory distress
- Chest pain
- Severe confusion
- Allergic reactions
If you or a loved one experiences any of the above, it’s important to seek out immediate emergency medical attention.
Real-Life Cases and Statistics
While research has suggested the use of Gabapentin as an adjunct for treating benzodiazepine withdrawal, there are risks involved. The use of Gabapentin combined with Xanax to help with withdrawal is done in a supervised setting where close monitoring can ensure the individual’s safety.
Research has further demonstrated that the combination of Gabapentin, Xanax, and opioids can significantly increase the odds of substance-related overdoses. Again, this signifies the importance of monitoring the use of such substances for the health of the individual.
Prevention and Safety Measures
To avoid adverse reactions or interactions between medications, open communication is essential between you and your healthcare provider.
To further prevent misuse of these drugs:
- Ensure you have regular check-ins with your doctor to monitor any side effects or adjust the dosage as needed.
- Don’t mix these two drugs with a third, including alcohol, opioids, or even other benzodiazepines, unless told otherwise by your doctor.
- Consider alternative treatment options. For example, anxiety disorders can be effectively treated with therapy. In some cases, other anticonvulsant medications may also be more appropriate for managing seizures than Gabapentin.
- Ensure you gradually stop their usage as per the instructions of your medical provider. Suddenly stopping the use of these drugs can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Seeking Help and Treatment Options
If you or a loved one is mixing these two substances, it’s important to seek out the proper support and advice. Ensure proper monitoring and follow-ups if your doctor has determined prescribing both is the best option right now. Pay attention to any signs of an overdose, as per the symptoms above.
If you’re concerned about addiction or withdrawal regarding Xanax and Gabapentin, the sooner you seek out support, the better. While each person’s substance use history is unique, with the right treatment and care plan, you can free yourself from the chains of addiction. Often, this may involve a combination of support groups, therapy, and medically assisted treatment to support the withdrawal process.
Conclusion
Mixing Xanax and Gabapentin can come with various side effects, both in the short term and long term. When mixed with a third substance, the risk of overdosing can significantly increase. This is why it’s essential to take these two substances under the proper guidance of a healthcare professional.
If you or someone you know is dealing with issues related to drug misuse, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Seeking out proper support can help you or your loved one get back on track, ensuring long-term well-being and lasting healing.
References
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9824/xanax-oral/details
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7527439/
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a694007.html
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/gabapentin/side-effects-of-gabapentin/
- https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-about-serious-breathing-problems-seizure-and-nerve-pain-medicines-gabapentin-neurontin
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5465829/
- https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/gabapentin-with-xanax-1147-0-133-54.html
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35797687/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9904085/
