When you combine two or more drugs or drink alcohol with drugs in order to alter the effects, it is known as polysubstance abuse. Quite simply, if you choose to do this, it is like playing Russian Roulette. In order to talk about what happens when you combine alcohol and Xanax, we must first talk about the dangers of each of these substances on their own. 

Dangers of Drinking Alcohol

The potential for problems is practically endless when it comes to drinking alcohol in excess. As a result of binge drinking, you can get hurt from a fall or from a burn. You can die in an accidental drowning, or harm yourself or others in a car accident. 

Some people become violent against their partners. Others become suicidal. Alcohol poisoning becomes a risk when your blood alcohol level reaches too high of a point. Some individuals choose to participate in risky sexual behavior, in which they participate in unprotected sex. As a result, sexually transmitted diseases or unintended pregnancy may occur. 

Over time, using alcohol excessively can cause you to potentially develop chronic diseases and conditions which may include:

• Heart disease and liver disease
• Various types of cancer
• A weakened immune system
• Memory problems, including dementia
• Family problems and job-related problems
• Alcohol dependence

Dangers of Taking Xanax

Xanax is a powerful benzodiazepine that is only recommended to be used for up to six weeks. Nevertheless, physicians continue to refill prescriptions for Xanax, and as a result, addiction rates continue to rise. 

When you take Xanax, you become less coordinated. Speaking clearly may become more difficult and you may find it hard to keep your balance at times. You may have trouble concentrating on your tasks at hand as well, whether it is something small or something important. It is notorious for decreasing inhibitions, therefore allowing users to take risks that they otherwise wouldn’t normally take. 

Using Xanax for months or more actually damages brain cells. Some people become so depressed on Xanax that they find themselves thinking about suicide. It is very common for people to feel irritable when they are using Xanax, getting annoyed by things that wouldn’t normally bother them. 

Xanax users may also experience paranoia and see things that aren’t really there. This type of confusion is a typical consequence of taking Xanax, and may cause the user to lash out at others as a result. 

Dangers of Polysubstance Abuse

Okay, so what happens when you take alcohol and Xanax together? Essentially, you amplify the effects of both of them. Perhaps this sounds like fun to you? It won’t be much fun when you are taken to the hospital because you are suffering from an overdose. Alcohol is a depressant, and so is Xanax. You are risking serious damage to your brain, heart, and other organs. 

Logically, it makes a difference whether you have taken one Xanax pill and a glass of wine or seven Xanax pills and a pint of vodka. Nevertheless, the effects that you get from mixing Xanax and alcohol are still undesirable. You will be totally spaced out, sleepy and aggressive, all at the same time. 

Get Help at Knoxville Recovery Center

Whether you are addicted to alcohol, Xanax, or both, we at Knoxville Recovery Center understand the dangers of polysubstance abuse and we want you to know as well. Mixing drugs in the hopes of seeking out pleasure is a dangerous game. Being sober has its own rewards. Know that you can leave drugs and alcohol behind, with a little professional help. Contact us today to speak with an addiction specialist. Today is the day you take your life back.