Valium is a benzodiazepine prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. It is very dangerous to mix alcohol with Valium because the two substances are central nervous system depressants which slow down breathing rates and heart rates. These combined substances can cause death by overdose or respiratory failure.
Valium also depresses your ability to think, so combining these drugs will make you even more impaired than either drug alone. Alcohol on its own impairs judgment making it challenging to determine how intoxicated you are. With Valium mixed in, it becomes nearly impossible to know if you have enough of both drugs in your body at once without experiencing any adverse side effects from either substance before then. This mixture could lead someone into an accidental overdose without realizing it.
What is Valium, and what does it do to the body?
Valium is a prescription medication used to treat certain seizures and anxiety. It belongs to the category of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which are central nervous system depressants that slow brain activity. Other medications in this class include alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and clonazepam (Klonopin).
Valium is also used to treat alcohol withdrawal, acute repetitive seizures, and anxiety caused by an underlying medical condition.
Effects of Valium on the body include:
- drowsiness
- relaxation or relief from anxiety
- reduction in muscle tension
- sedative-hypnotic effect (inducing sleep)
- Valium and Alcohol: What’s the Relationship?
- Drinking alcohol with Valium is not recommended because it can lead to respiratory failure, coma, and possible death.
How can they be used together safely?
Valium and alcohol should never be mixed. If you are taking Valium, do not drink alcohol. If you are drinking alcohol, do not take Valium. Both substances can be lethal when combined, so it is essential to be aware of the risks before taking either drug.
If you must drink while on Valium, take only one drink. Limit yourself to no more than one drink every two hours. Do not take Valium later or the following morning if you are drinking.
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What to Do If You Mix Them
If you have taken Valium and alcohol together and started to feel the effects, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Do not drive yourself or have someone else drive you.
If you think someone has overdosed on Valium and alcohol, call 911 immediately. Symptoms of an overdose include:
- severe drowsiness
- slowed heart rate
- small pupils
- loss of coordination
- unconsciousness
- rigid muscles
The dangers of mixing these two substances
Taking Valium and alcohol together combines the depressant effects. This can lead to respiratory failure, coma, and possible death. If you have taken Valium and drink together and started to feel the effects, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Do not drive yourself or have someone else drive you.
If you think someone has overdosed on Valium and alcohol, call 911 immediately. Symptoms of an overdose include severe drowsiness, slowed heart rate, small pupils, loss of coordination, unconsciousness, rigid muscles.
When alcohol and Valium are mixed, they can slow the heart rate and breathe dangerously low. It is essential to get medical help right away if you think someone has overdosed on this dangerous combination.
How long does Valium stay in your system?
Valium is a benzodiazepine, which is a class of drugs that slows down the central nervous system. Benzodiazepines are usually prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, but they can also be used for other purposes.
Valium is one of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines in the United States. It is essential to know that Valium is detectable in the body for about two days after last use. However, this will vary depending on many factors, including the amount of Valium used, how often it was used, and other drugs/medications being taken simultaneously.
How much should I take if I want to get high on Valium but not drunk (dosage)
There is no “right” or “recommended” dosage for Valium. It is a prescription medication, and it should be taken only under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Tips for staying safe when consuming both substances at the same time
- Make sure you have a designated driver; this is a person who takes you home and stays with you until the effects of Valium have left your system. Do not drive yourself or let someone else drive you.
- Take smaller doses than usual, making it easier to track how much Valium you have taken.
- Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours after the last use of Valium. This is because alcohol stays in the body’s system longer than Valium does, so it may.
- Eat before drinking;
- Consume alcohol in moderation;
- Avoid mixing Valium with other drugs and alcohol.
Signs of Abuse and Dependence
Benzodiazepines, including Valium, are prescription medications that should be taken only under the supervision of a healthcare professional. They are not meant for recreational use and can be habit-forming. Signs of abuse and dependence include:
- Taking larger doses than prescribed.
- Using benzodiazepines for non-medical reasons.
- Continuing to use the drugs even if the user has developed problems.
Effects of Abuse and Addiction
Abuse and addiction to Valium, as well as other benzodiazepines, can lead to tolerance or dependence. There is a risk of overdose when abusing this drug which can be fatal. Other effects include:
- nausea;
- vomiting;
- diarrhea;
- drowsiness;
- slowed heart rate;
- small pupils;
- loss of coordination;
- unconsciousness;
- rigid muscles.
Valium and Alcohol: What You Need to Know
Signs of abuse and dependence include:
- Taking larger doses than prescribed.
- Using benzodiazepines for non-medical reasons.
- Continuing to use the drugs even if the user has developed problems.
When mixed, Valium and alcohol can slow breathing, heart rate and lead to coma or death. If you are feeling the effects, seek medical help immediately. Do not drive yourself or have someone else drive you.
Treatment Options for Addiction to Valium or Alcohol
There are many treatment options for people with addiction to benzodiazepines or alcohol, which can be discussed in greater detail with an addiction specialist. Medications, such as Naltrexone and Disulfiram, may also be prescribed for alcohol use disorder. These medications help reduce cravings and the euphoric effects of alcohol so that drinking is less rewarding. This is combined with counseling and support groups to help promote lifelong recovery from alcoholism.
For those addicted to benzodiazepines such as Valium, addiction therapy may include a form of behavioral treatment such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which can help identify triggers and teach people how to avoid or better respond to them without using them. This is combined with support groups and medications to help people stop abusing Valium and stay sober for the rest of their lives.
Treatment for valium addiction involves a combination of different approaches. These can include individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, or medication. The treatment plan is determined by a health care professional who has experience in treating addiction. Medication is often used as a first step. But some people need more intensive treatment to achieve long-term sobriety.
Is Medications Assisted Therapy effective for Alcohol and Valium Addictions?
Medications Assisted Therapy is a new FDA-approved treatment option for people with an addiction to alcohol or benzodiazepines, such as Valium. Buprenorphine and Naltrexone are the only two medications approved for this use, which can help reduce cravings and minimize withdrawal symptoms. This therapy allows participants to reduce their use of Valium and alcohol, stay in recovery, live a healthier lifestyle, and avoid relapse.
The FDA has approved Naltrexone (in-office procedures only) to treat Valium addiction in adults addicted to alcohol or benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety medications like Valium). The drug blocks the effects of opiates and reduces cravings, making it easier to stop using Valium. It is important to note that Naltrexone should not be used in people dependent on opiates like heroin or prescription painkillers.
Buprenorphine is a medication that helps reduce cravings for alcohol and benzodiazepines, such as Valium, and can be taken at home. This medication is a pill that dissolves under the tongue and is available in two formulations: Suboxone Film and Bunavail. It is important to note that Buprenorphine should not be used in people dependent on benzodiazepines or alcohol.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Alcohol and Valium
CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps people understand how their behaviors and emotions may be related. CBT can help individuals who use the medication reduce their medication use while not experiencing negative consequences.
CBT for alcohol and Valium includes four key components:
- Keeping a diary or log of when and where they used the alcohol or medication, how much was taken, and what they felt.
- Identifying positive coping mechanisms to replace the alcohol/medication use and identifying negative triggers that lead to using the medication. For example, suppose an individual finds that he fights with his wife after drinking. In that case, he might consider different ways of coping with frustration, such as exercise or relaxation techniques.
- Practicing these new coping mechanisms and strategies.
- Evaluating the progress made over time with a therapist.
CBT aims to help people change their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to reduce medication use, improve quality of life, and achieve personal goals. It is important to note that CBT is different from group therapy, support groups, or 12-step programs. It cannot be used by itself but instead is used in conjunction with these other therapies.
Taking medications safely while reducing the number of drugs taken can reduce risks to individuals’ health and lives while increasing their quality of life. People who suffer from addiction should always consult a healthcare professional before changing their medication regimen. CBT is just one approach to helping people reduce or stop their alcohol and valium use; many other therapies may be more appropriate for an individual depending on their unique situation. However, CBT is a well-researched and well-tested type of therapy that can be used to help people reduce and stop their alcohol and valium use.
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The Importance of Alcohol and Valium Support Groups in Drug Treatment
Alcohol and Valium are both drugs used to treat several medical conditions. Alcohol is commonly used to treat problems with the digestive system, while Valium is used to treat issues such as anxiety and seizures. Both alcohol and Valium can be addictive, challenging to stop using once a person has started.
If you are addicted to either alcohol or Valium, you must seek treatment for your addiction. Both drugs can cause serious health problems when used in excess. Neither medication should be combined with other medicines that act as central nervous system depressants, such as heroin or cocaine. It is also dangerous to take these drugs if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Fortunately, several treatment options are available for people addicted to alcohol or Valium. One standard treatment option is to attend an Alcohol and Valium support group. These groups provide a safe place for people to share their experiences and receive support from others going through the same thing.
One of the best things about Alcohol and Valium support groups is free. Some support groups provide childcare, while others offer transportation to the meeting location. Most Alcohol and Valium support groups are open to people who are both addicted to either drug and people who have a loved one suffering from an addiction to these drugs. Support groups can be a great way to connect with other people who understand what you are going through. Support groups also provide a safe place for people to share their experiences and receive support from others going through the same thing.
Helpful Resources for Those Who Need Help with Addiction to Valium, Alcohol or Both
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Hope Line: 800-622-2155
- Alcoholics Anonymous: www.alcoholicsanonymous.org
- Narcotics Anonymous: www.na.org
- Al-Anon/Alateen: www.al-anon.org, www.alateen.org
- Rehabs.com: www.rehabs.com
Benzodiazepines are prescription medications that should be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional and can be habit-forming. When abused, they can lead to tolerance or dependence and risk of overdose. When mixed with alcohol, they can slow breathing, heart rate and lead to coma or death. There are many treatment options for people with addiction to benzodiazepines or alcohol, which can be discussed in greater detail with an addiction specialist.
Addiction Specialist is a professional title earned by an individual who has met a national certification organization’s ethical and practice standards of addiction-focused healthcare professionals. In addition to taking a nationally-recognized certification exam, those individuals who earn this title must have the necessary educational credentials as therapists or physicians plus possess several years of post-graduate clinical experience in related addiction treatment services. Addiction Specialists are a valuable and essential resource for those seeking assistance with addiction to benzodiazepines, alcohol, or both.
If you are struggling with addiction to benzodiazepines, alcohol, or both, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. An addiction specialist will help connect you with the best resources for your unique situation. There is hope, and recovery is possible.
