The Dangers of Mixing Adderall with Alcohol
The dangers of mixing Adderall with alcohol can result in impaired effects on an individual. The results vary according to the individual but it can have lethal consequences with a toxic combination and effect on the brain and body. Learn more about the risks of mixing Adderall with alcohol.
Mixing Drugs
High doses of amphetamine like Adderall is likely to increase the impaired effects of alcohol. Some people take Adderall to party longer or be able to drink more while delaying the ‘sleepy’ feeling of being drunk and passing out. Primarily, people take Adderall with alcohol to increase or decrease certain alcoholic effects, some of which may include:
- Decreased depressant effects of alcohol
- Euphoria
- Excitation
- Increased alertness
- Increased blood pressure
- Increased pulse
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
What Happens
Adderall is a stimulant while alcohol is a depressant. When stimulants are used to prolong a drinking session, the stimulant effectively blocks the depressant effects of alcohol making it easier to overlook warning signs. Mixing alcohol and Adderall can lead to alcohol poisoning. Alcohol can decrease seizure threshold and interact with Adderall, resulting in seizures. Some of the risks associated with mixing the two together include:
- Alcohol poisoning
- Seizures
- Enhanced side effects of Adderall
Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms from Adderall and Alcohol may include some of the following:
- Apathy
- Depression
- Irritability
- Prolonged periods of sleep
Connections
Mixing meds with alcohol occur when people take Adderall after drinking starts. Another study from 2006 found college campuses reported Adderall use through snorting in combination with drinking which was thought to be less harmful when used alone. Men and women with alcohol problems are 18 times more likely to use prescription drugs for non -medical reasons than people who do not drink.
Adderall is a popular and available drug on most college campuses in the United States. With easy access and ease of use, students are taking the drug and drinking without thinking about consequences. Universities, parents and others have a responsibility to talk with students, inform student bodies and share information about how to drink safely and avoiding the risk of serious hazards including mixing stimulants. The risks are greater for individuals who believe there are no serious side effects to the more information is passed around, the better individuals can decide what is healthy and what is unsafe. Overall, many people aside from college students make decisions to use Adderall and alcohol. It is a problem facing many people and has serious short and long term consequences for personal and public health.
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