Librium and Alcohol: Mixing Effects
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.
If you are ready to find treatment options for yourself or a loved one, get started right now with our free rehab locator tool. Find addiction treatment facilities that take insurance, inpatient rehabs, outpatient rehab programs, and more.