The Risks Of Combining Meth And Alcohol

 

The practice of using multiple drugs at the same time, also called Polysubstance dependence is not uncommon. Meth users that mix the habit with binge drinking often experience an increase of the impact of meth use. The effect of alcohol on the motivation of a person to use methamphetamine, or vice versa, is considered to be momentary. That is why treating methamphetamine addiction can be really hard for the users and their families. A meth intervention is one of the effective ways to stop the misuse and the co-use of both substances. 

The Dangers of Mixing Meth and Alcohol

Many people mix meth and alcohol because they believe that it can magnify both the high of each substance, at the same time, relieve some of the negative effects of each substance. For example, meth may relieve sedation due to alcohol drinking while alcohol may alleviate insomnia associated with meth use. 

Studies reveal that alcohol intake can get in the way of meth metabolism, resulting in a higher meth concentration in the bloodstream. So, if alcohol increases meth levels in the blood, it may heighten the stimulating effects of meth on the nervous system and cardiovascular system. For example, the combination of meth and alcohol can increase heart rate much further than using meth alone. 

Meth may counteract some of the effects of alcohol drinking, like sedation and impaired performance. As a result, a person using both may think they are sober enough to drive or engage in other physical activities and dangerous behaviors. Meth also has the tendency to increase libido. On the other hand, alcohol tends to lower inhibitions. Those who use these substances at the same time may be more likely to engage in high-risk sexual activities, making meth and alcohol a dangerous combination. 

Intervention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation

Abusing any substance alone comes with many serious risks. But, when you throw in other substances to the mix, it can introduce new adverse effects, amplifying the dangers of the initial substance. If you or someone you know has a hard time stopping using meth, alcohol, and other drugs, as well as mixing substances, it is time to seek meth intervention. Each time a person abuses drugs, the risks are so high that there is the potential for grave harm. 

Individuals who have acquired a dependence on both methamphetamine and alcohol should begin their recovery in meth intervention. When it comes to alcohol withdrawal, it may bring about severe and sometimes life-threatening symptoms, and meth withdrawal can be distressing both physically and psychologically. An inpatient environment where the patients receive supervision and care around the clock may prevent potentially fatal complications and can provide a more comfortable detox. 

After meth intervention and detox, treatment usually involves therapy and also medication. Common aspects of addiction treatment consist of group counseling, individual counseling, medication, family therapy, drug and mental health education classes, and skill-building groups, recreational and other alternative therapies. Treatment can help patients gain the tools they need to develop and maintain the much-needed recovery from meth and alcohol addiction.