Mixing Diazepam and Alcohol: What Are The Dangers & Side Effects?

Key Takeaways:

1. Dangers of Mixing Diazepam and Alcohol: Both diazepam and alcohol are central nervous system depressants, which means combining them can cause severe effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, memory issues, and even slowed or stopped breathing.

2. Signs of Overdose: Mixing diazepam with alcohol can lead to life-threatening overdose symptoms, including extreme drowsiness, confusion, and slow or difficult breathing. Immediate medical attention is required in these cases.

3. Valium and Alcohol Risks: Similar dangers apply when mixing alcohol with Valium, as both are benzodiazepines with similar sedative effects, increasing the risk of serious side effects and overdose.

What Happens When You Mix Diazepam and Alcohol?

Mixing diazepam with alcohol can lead to serious consequences due to the intensifying effects of both substances. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine, a type of medication that works as a central nervous system depressant, slowing brain activity. Alcohol also has depressant effects on the brain. When these two substances are combined, their effects can amplify, making you feel excessively drowsy and relaxed, often to a dangerous degree.

Alcohol can enhance the sedative effects of diazepam, leading to unusually deep sleep or sedation. In some cases, this can result in breathing difficulties or make it extremely hard for someone to wake up. The NHS highlights that combining alcohol with medications like diazepam can be very dangerous, as it increases the risk of severe side effects.

What Are the Side Effects of Mixing Diazepam and Alcohol?

Combining diazepam and alcohol can cause a number of severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. These effects are amplified because both alcohol and diazepam slow down the central nervous system. The side effects of mixing the two substances may include:

• Drowsiness: You may feel excessively sleepy or find it difficult to stay awake.

• Dizziness: There is an increased risk of feeling lightheaded or unsteady on your feet.

• Memory issues: Short-term memory can be impaired, making it difficult to remember things.

• Coordination problems: Difficulty with movement and balance, increasing the risk of falls and accidents.

These side effects can worsen over time and increase the risk of more serious issues. The combination can also slow or stop your breathing, which may lead to a lack of oxygen reaching the brain and other vital organs. This can have fatal consequences if not addressed immediately (Mosel, Fifield & Thomas, 2024).

What Are the Signs of a Diazepam and Alcohol Overdose?

Mixing diazepam with alcohol can lead to an overdose, which can be life-threatening. Recognising the signs of an overdose is crucial in such situations (Spinks & Durrani, 2023). Common symptoms of a diazepam and alcohol overdose include:

• Extreme drowsiness: Feeling overwhelmingly sleepy, to the point where it’s hard to stay awake.

• Confusion: You may feel disoriented or unable to understand what’s happening around you.

• Slowed or difficult breathing: Breathing may become shallow, slow, or irregular.

• Unresponsiveness: In severe cases, the person may become unresponsive or unconscious, potentially slipping into a coma.

An overdose can also lead to serious complications such as heart attacks and seizures, both of which can result in fatality without immediate medical intervention. If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or someone else, it is essential to seek emergency medical assistance straight away.

Do the Same Dangers and Risks Apply to Mixing Alcohol with Valium?

Yes, the same risks and dangers apply when mixing alcohol with Valium. Valium, like diazepam, is a benzodiazepine, which means it has similar sedative effects on the central nervous system. Combining alcohol with Valium can significantly increase the likelihood of serious side effects, such as:

• Slowed breathing

• Lowered heart rate

• Increased confusion

• Severe drowsiness

These effects can escalate quickly, raising the risk of an overdose. If you combine Valium and alcohol, you are at an increased risk of respiratory failure, unconsciousness, or even death. Just as with diazepam, the combination of alcohol and Valium can have serious, life-threatening consequences.

Final Thoughts

Mixing diazepam (Valium) with alcohol is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe side effects, including slowed breathing, memory problems, and in extreme cases, an overdose. Both substances are central nervous system depressants, meaning they can enhance each other's effects, often with life-threatening results.

It’s essential to be aware of the risks when using diazepam or Valium and alcohol. If you're prescribed either of these medications, always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance carefully and avoid alcohol during treatment. If you or someone you know is experiencing an overdose from mixing these substances, seek emergency medical help immediately. Always prioritise safety and ensure you understand the potential dangers of combining alcohol with medication.

If you have any concerns or questions about your treatment, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for advice tailored to your individual needs.

Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Irfan Siddique MBBS
GMC reference no: 7694522
LinkedIn

Sources

Mixing Alcohol & Diazepam: Dangers and Risks - American Addiction Centers

What are the Effects of Mixing Valium and Alcohol? - American Addiction Centers