Xanax, or alprazolam, is a prescription medication in the benzodiazepine class of drugs. This drug is often prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders, because it acts as a central nervous system depressant, slowing brain activity to produce a calming effect. Xanax obviously has legitimate medical uses, but people can become addicted to it. When this occurs, the drug can produce harmful physical and psychological effects. These problems are magnified when Xanax is taken in conjunction with another central nervous system depressant such as alcohol. Mixing Xanax and alcohol can produce a strong sedative effect that can lead to slowed respiration, coma, and even death.
Despite these risks, some people use and become addicted to Xanax and alcohol. When they first start using these substance concurrently, they merely enjoy the euphoria, numbness, and relaxation that the combination produces. However, over time, people can come to rely on this …show more content…
The first step is to admit that substance abuse is a problem – and the next step is to do something about it. The average person will wait 10 years before seeking help for addiction. Additionally, family members and friends are often slow to intervene. Since addiction can be a ticking time bomb, it’s best to seek treatment as soon as possible.
Once you are able to admit that you or your loved one has a problem, you should educate yourself about alcohol and Xanax abuse. Knowing the statistics about drug abuse and the health risks of concurrently using alcohol and Xanax can give you a reason to fight for the long-term sobriety of you or your loved one. After you gain information about basics of Xanax and alcohol addiction, you should learn about the various treatment options for concurrent alcohol and Xanax