Mixing alcohol and methadone can come with a number of side effects and potential dangers. The more a person combines the two substances, the more likely they are to experience dangerous interactions.
Some people may combine these two drugs by accident. However, most individuals who mix methadone and alcohol do so purposely for a high. Unfortunately, there is no safe combination of methadone and alcohol. This combination can lead to overdose and even death.
If you are struggling with the misuse of either of these substances, Vertava Health has both an alcohol rehab center and a methadone rehab center that can help. Contact us at 844.470.0410 to learn about treatment options.
About Methadone
Methadone is a prescription medication used in the treatment of heroin and other opioid addiction. It is also used to manage moderate to severe pain that has not responded to other treatment methods. This drug is a Schedule II substance and is only available via prescription.
This medication is typically prescribed in tablet, liquid, or powder form. Methadone is considered an opioid agonist, meaning that it acts on the opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain. However, methadone also works to block the euphoric feelings of drugs like heroin. This means that it can provide both the pain-relieving effects of an opioid while also helping to prevent further opioid use in individuals who are addicted to opiates.
While methadone is considered safer and less addictive than other opioids, it still comes with the potential for use and addiction. People who use methadone often take large amounts of the drug at once to experience the euphoric effects it can cause. Unfortunately, doing so drastically increases the risk of negative side effects and even overdose. Mixing methadone with alcohol only heightens the possibility that someone will experience these negative side effects.
Side Effects Of Mixing Methadone And Alcohol
When used responsibly, alcohol and methadone both can provide a number of benefits. However, these two substances can become dangerous and even deadly when used in excess or combined.
Potential side effects of mixing methadone and alcohol include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Memory problems
- Vomiting and nausea
- Slurred speech
- Depressed breathing and heart rate
- Fainting
- Unconsciousness
- Blurred vision
- Seizures
- Fatigue
The more methadone and alcohol a person consumes, the more at risk they are for the adverse side effects of these two drugs. Misusing these substances over an extended period of time can also result in a number of additional complications, including liver damage and high blood pressure.
Potential Dangers of Mixing Alcohol and Methadone
Additionally, combining alcohol and methadone can significantly increase the risk of overdose. Both of these drugs are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, meaning that they slow down the CNS system when consumed. This can result in dangerously slowed breathing and heart rate, leading to coma and even death.
Combining these two drugs can also cause a person to become intoxicated much more quickly. This can result in someone participating in dangerous activities, such as driving while under the influence or getting into a fight. Impaired judgment can increase the risk of injury and even death.
Treatment Options for Methadone And Alcohol Use And Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with mixing alcohol and methadone, seeking help is the best decision that can be made. While overcoming methadone addiction may feel daunting or even impossible, it’s essential to know that you don’t have to do it alone. There are several methadone treatment options available that can help you overcome a substance use disorder and live a meaningful life.
To learn more about the side effects and dangers of mixing methadone and alcohol, contact a Vertava Health treatment specialist today at 844.470.0410.
