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A majority of adults over the legal drinking age consume alcohol at least once a month. Drinking in moderation is common practice for millions of Americans, but a large proportion of people also struggle with alcohol use disorders. Problematic drinking takes a wide range of forms, including binge drinking, alcohol dependence, and mixing alcohol and prescription drugs. The lack of awareness of the danger of mixing alcohol and prescription drugs results in serious health consequences and emergency room visits throughout the country. Learning more about the risks can possibly help prevent thousands of overdoses and deaths each year.

If you’re looking for alcohol addiction treatment in Atlanta, then Samba Recovery would be happy to help you reach your goals. Our treatment facility in Peachtree, GA, offers a range of services for safe, effective alcohol addiction treatment, giving our patients the best chance of long-term recovery. Our expert addiction specialists understand that reaching out for help is a difficult first step in the recovery journey. This is why we have focused on cultivating an environment that is non-judgmental and supportive for patients of every race, creed, and gender. Reach out to our team at 888.505.8279 and we can tell you more about what we can offer.

Why Mixing Alcohol and Prescription Drugs Is Dangerous

Mixing alcohol and prescription drugs is a potentially dangerous combination. It is important to understand the potential dangers of combining these two substances, as well as the signs of an overdose. Knowing when to seek help could prevent serious health consequences and even fatalities in some cases.

Alcohol is a depressant that slows down the body’s central nervous system, which controls breathing, heart rate, and other essential functions. When combined with certain prescription medications, it can have a magnified effect on the body. Depending on the type of medication being taken, this can lead to a variety of physical and psychological side effects.

The most common side effects from mixing alcohol with prescription drugs include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
• Nausea or vomiting
• Impaired vision and coordination
• Slurred speech
• Shallow or slowed breathing
• Unconsciousness

Mixing alcohol with certain medications can cause damage to vital organs such as the liver or kidneys if taken over a long period of time. In more severe cases where alcohol has been mixed with prescription drugs such as benzodiazepines, opioids, or stimulants, an overdose can occur. If a person is unresponsive or unconscious and you suspect they may be experiencing an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

Medications That Interact with Alcohol

It is important to remember that mixing alcohol with any type of medication should always be avoided unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider who is aware that both substances are being taken together. Even then it should only be done under close medical supervision as there are still many potential risks involved with this combination. Always follow your doctor’s advice regarding combining any sort of medication and alcohol.

Some of the most common prescription and over-the-counter drugs that can pose a health risk if combined with alcohol include:

• Allergy, cold, and flu medications
• Angina medications
• Antibiotics
• Anti-anxiety medication
• Prescription sleep aids
• Cholesterol-lowering medication
• Antidepressants
• Arthritis medications

Turn to Samba Recovery for Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Atlanta

There is no reason to let alcohol addiction take control of your life. Samba Recovery is Georgia’s premiere addiction treatment center. If you or someone you love is thinking of getting sober, the best course of action is to start an alcohol or drug addiction treatment program with us.

Contact Samba Recovery at 888.505.8279 or reach out to our team online to learn more.