People who abuse substances tend to use two drugs simultaneously for higher stimulation. One of the most common drug combinations is benzos and alcohol. People who abuse these drugs often think it is safer to take liquor with benzos compared to other illicit drugs. However, this combination is dangerous as it may lead to adverse short term and long-term effects. For drug and alcohol addiction treatment, contact Summit Estate Recovery Center at 800.701.6997 today.
What are Benzodiazepines?
Benzos are a category of prescription drugs taken to treat conditions such as anxiety and seizures. Some of the most common benzodiazepines are Valium, Xanax, Ativan, and Klonopin. These drugs depress the central nervous system, hence slow down neural activity. However, benzos cause physical dependence, and one should not use them for an extended period. Few exemptions such as the control of epilepsy may necessitate long term use of this substance.
The use of benzos can cause either mild or severe side effects. A person can experience reduced coordination, then feel tired and confused. The sedative effect also leads to drowsiness, slurred speech, and impaired cognitive ability. In severe cases, the use of this drug can cause depression and memory loss.
The Effects of Mixing Benzos and Alcohol
Both alcohol and benzodiazepines have a depressant effect on the nervous system. Taking the drugs together enhances their results, which leads to significant sedation. Moreover, a high dosage of both drugs can cause mood swings and impaired memory. When a person mixes two drugs, they expose themselves to the risk of an overdose. This condition may cause fatal effects, such as brain damage and respiratory failure. Additionally, mixing alcohol and benzos can lead to a decreased physical reaction. A user may experience reduced motor coordination and the ability to engage in daily routines.
Combining two depressants enhances the side effects of each drug. A person using benzos and alcohol may experience allergic reactions, nausea, and fatigue. Prolonged use of benzos and alcohol also increases the long-term effects associated with the drugs. For instance, a user may suffer liver damage and develop cardiovascular complications. Usage of these drugs may also progress to physical dependency on either one or both substances. Moreover, people who use several drugs are likely to suffer mental health conditions such as depression.
Treating Alcohol and Benzos Addiction
Benzos and alcohol addiction trigger withdrawal symptoms when a user cannot access drugs. Some of the effects experienced are insomnia, increased irritability, nausea, and seizures. Furthermore, drug usage causes financial strain and can destroy relationships such as marriages. A person addicted to benzos and alcohol should detox to stabilize their body for a long-term treatment process. Alcohol and benzos withdrawal symptoms begin five to ten hours after the last use.
It is advisable to seek medical attention at a drug and alcohol detox center since the effects of withdrawing benzodiazepines may be severe. The physicians will administer medication to ease the withdrawal effects. They also observe patients’ reactions to the cessation of drug use and ensure they stay stable. A patient should also undergo therapy to help them identify the triggers that lead to drug abuse and how to counteract them. The most effective therapies used in the treatment of addiction are:
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Acupuncture therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Art therapy
- Family therapy
- Meditation
One should also ensure they apply techniques that will help them prevent a relapse. Such methods include joining a support group, discarding unused drugs, and avoiding stress.
Benzos and alcohol are addictive substances that may cause long term damage like dementia. At Summit Estate, we provide personalized treatment programs to help you recover from drug abuse. Some of our treatment programs are intensive outpatient treatment and dual diagnosis. We evaluate patients before enrolling them for treatment. This measure helps us identify the most effective way to deal with their addiction. Contact us at 800.701.6997 to join medically supervised addiction treatment.
