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The Dangers of Mixing Alcohol and Drugs

Why You Shouldn't Drink While Taking Medicine

There's no doubt about it; alcohol is perhaps the most popular intoxicant on the market today. In fact, according to the NSDUH, over 85.6% of adults 18+ in the United States admitted to drinking alcohol at least once during the year 2019.

That large number includes a portion of Americans who unfortunately mixed their alcohol with drugs — leading to a life-altering result in some instances. Read on to learn why the mixture of these two is not only dangerous but often fatal.

Competing Benefits

The way your body works with a drug is that it will move it through the bloodstream. Your metabolism is then able to diminish the effects of the drug on your body. This, however, is also the same manner in which alcohol moves through your bloodstream when you drink.

If you happen to drink alcohol and take drugs at the same time, your body will then begin to attempt to help you fight off the negative effects of both. This often does not end well as the negative effects of the drug taken usually begin to affect you rapidly, and in many cases, can end up being fatal.

Antibiotics and Alcohol Mixing

Unfortunately, many people believe that consuming alcohol while they are sick or after surgery will help them sleep better. Not only is this false, but in many cases, people are already on antibiotics. The combination of antibiotics and alcohol will usually lead to the following negative side effects:

  • Migraine headaches
  • Vomiting
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Seizures

Avoiding Accidental Mixing of Alcohol and Drugs

Contrary to popular belief, not all mixing of alcohol and drugs is intentional. In many cases, it is simply not understanding the use of "legal" drugs that often send people to the emergency room. This is particularly the case with drugs such as cannabis. Because people see it as legal (in certain states) and natural, they do not associate it with potential danger. However, when alcohol is consumed, the chemical THC is then left within a person's body for much longer than it should be. This can increase the negative side effects of cannabis, including paranoia, dizziness, and an increased heart rate, to name a few.

If you or a friend are struggling with alcohol or drug abuse, it is highly recommended to reach out for help. At Mount Sinai Wellness Center, we are helping people make that future a reality by showing them the benefits of sobriety and empowering them to find fulfillment in their lives after treatment.

Contact us today to begin your journey.

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