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Librium and Alcohol: Mixing Effects

If you or someone you know is addicted to Librium and alcohol, help is only a phone call away. A toll-free, national helpline is your first step toward getting the support you need.

Our admissions navigators are available 24/7 to speak with you about treatment options. Call our hotline at to start your journey toward recovery today. You can learn about the harsh effects of mixing Librium and alcohol, as well as the best treatment options available in your area. Drug addiction gets in the way of a meaningful, fulfilling life, but modern treatments have been steadily winning the battle against drugs.

Although alcohol is legal throughout the United States, alcohol abuse represents a significant national health problem. In the past, problem drinking was not considered a disease. Alcoholics received scorn rather than proper medical treatment. Fortunately, times have changed, and medical professionals now acknowledge that alcoholism is not the fault of the sufferer.

Symptoms of Alcoholism

When you or someone you know has a problem with alcohol, the signs will be obvious. While only a doctor can make a diagnosis of alcoholism, problem drinking typically includes some or all of the following manifestations:

  • An uncontrollable urge to drink
  • Drinking at inappropriate times or alone
  • Legal problems as a result of drinking
  • Anxiety or irritability when sober
  • Obsessive thoughts about drinking
  • Drinking to get drunk

Alcoholic Drinks and Librium

During the withdrawal and recovery process, many alcoholics are prescribed anti-anxiety medications to lessen the symptoms of fear and panic. Librium is one such drug used in this manner. When taken properly, the drug is typically safe and causes few side effects.

However, according to the National Library of Medicine, Librium can become habit-forming if taken for long periods. Similarly, patients often develop a tolerance to the medication, and they will sometimes take larger doses to achieve the same effect. Because of these concerns, Librium is generally prescribed for the shortest possible amount of time to achieve the necessary effect.

The most common side effects of Librium include:

  • Drowsiness.
  • Weakness.
  • Upset stomach.
  • Changes in appetite.

Side effects that are more worrisome range from restlessness and blurred vision to irregular heartbeat. When any of these effects interfere with your daily routine, tell your doctor immediately.

You shouldn’t suddenly stop taking Librium, either, as this can intensify whatever side effects you’ve been feeling. If you’re taking Librium as a means to ease withdrawal from alcohol, then you absolutely should not drink. Besides defeating the purpose of the medication, you will intensify the effects of both the alcohol and the Librium.

Mixing Librium and alcohol creates what is known as a synergistic effect. The combined depressant effects on the central nervous systems are amplified in a relationship best summarized as 1+1=3. While under the influence of both Librium and alcohol, a person may lose consciousness, or black out but remain completely conscious.

Mixing medications with alcohol also significantly increases the risk of an overdose. In a worst-case scenario, an overdose can lead to coma or death.

Dangers of Mixing Alcohol with Other Benzodiazepines

Treatment For Alcoholics And Librium Addicts

Thanks to the hard work of doctors and therapists, there is effective treatment for addiction to Librium and alcohol. Severe addiction usually calls for inpatient, professional care.

An experienced support staff can help an addict through the first stages of withdrawal, which may include medications to ease withdrawal and detoxify the body.

Group and individual therapy sessions help addicts understand the genesis of their illness and learn new strategies for dealing with life’s inevitable setbacks.

For those addicted to Librium and alcohol, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Acknowledging your problem is the first, and perhaps biggest, step towards healing. Calling us today will begin the process of getting you the right help for your unique situation. Don’t let the effect of mixing Librium and alcohol lead to a mistake you can’t undo.


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