What Are the Dangers of Mixing Drugs & Alcohol?
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that slows breathing, heart rate and cognition. When mixed with other mind-altering substances, alcohol increases the risks for self harm, overdose and other negative outcomes.
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Overdose
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Mixing stimulants with alcohol increases the risk of fatal overdose. Stimulants allow the user to feel alert and continue drinking, which can result in alcohol poisoning.
Respiratory Depression
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Taking depressants like benzodiazepines, sedatives or opiates with alcohol greatly increases the risk of fatal respiratory depression, according to scu.edu. Both alcohol and depressant drugs slow breathing and heart rate. When taken together, this effect can be dangerously magnified.
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Addiction
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Taking drugs with alcohol increases the likelihood of becoming addicted to one or both substances. Poly-drug abuse affects multiple brain pathways, increasing the chances of developing dependence on the substances in question.
Self-Harm
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Mixing alcohol with illegal or prescription drugs can affect a person's decision-making abilities. The risks associated with poor decision making---such as having unprotected sex or fighting---are increased when inhibitions are lowered by alcohol and drugs.
Warning
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Never mix alcohol with depressant drugs, as this can lead to death by respiratory depression or cardiac arrest. Avoid driving or engaging in other potentially dangerous activities when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
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