What Happens When You Mix Amphetamines and Alcohol?

Amphetamines and alcohol are both powerful substances that should be consumed separately only and with the utmost responsibility. Some people accidentally ingest alcohol while taking medically prescribed stimulants, but many consume both drugs together to enhance the effects and experience prolonged euphoria. While this may feel good in the short-term, mixing amphetamines and alcohol can have disastrous long-term effects on the brain and body. If you or someone you know is mixing amphetamines and alcohol, it’s important to be aware of the potential consequences of this concoction. 

What Are Amphetamines?

Amphetamines are a broad class of medically manufactured central nervous system stimulants. When used clinically, oral tablets of amphetamines can help address attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy and obesity. When used in excess, these drugs can quickly become addictive because of their pleasurable effects. Users experience euphoria, along with increases in memory, attention and alertness after taking an amphetamine. While anyone can become addicted to amphetamines, these medications are most popular among college students and young adults.  

Common prescription amphetamines include:

• Adderall
• Desoxyn
• Dexedrine
• DextroStat
• Ritalin
• ProCentra 
• Vyvanse
• Zenzedi 

What Are the Side Effects of Amphetamines and Alcohol?

There is no doubt that both alcohol and amphetamines can become addictive when abused alone. When taken together, however, the potential for dependence, addiction and overdose increases dramatically. 

Possible side effects of amphetamine and alcohol abuse include:

• Extreme fatigue
• Heart and liver damage
• Muscle necrosis
• Convulsions and seizures
• Suicidal thoughts
• Depressive, anxious or psychotic symptoms
• Stroke 

Dangers of Mixing Amphetamines and Alcohol

Because drinking alcohol is a daily life for many, some people don’t even realize that they should discontinue use of prescription amphetamines before consuming alcohol. 

Some people consume amphetamines with alcohol to help minimize the groggy feelings associated with intoxication. Alcohol, in turn, intensifies the pleasurable effects of amphetamines. Both of these effects can make it difficult for the user to tell when they’ve had too much to drink, encouraging them to drink more. This makes alcohol poisoning or overdose more likely. Even if a person never experiences alcohol poisoning while taking amphetamines, the combined effect of the two substances takes a toll on the body’s organs over time, leading to heart, liver and muscle damage. 

Alcohol poisoning can be fatal. If you suspect someone is experiencing alcohol poisoning, call 911 immediately. Do NOT be afraid to seek help. If you do not have access to a phone contact Web Poison Control Services for online assistance.

Treatment for Amphetamines and Alcohol

If you’re struggling with an addiction to amphetamines and alcohol, entering a medically supervised treatment program is your first step on the road to better health. While the harrowing nature of alcohol detox is well-known, amphetamine withdrawals can be just as difficult to overcome. A medically-assisted detox program can help you keep your resolve to be sober during this period of physical and psychological trial. 

Symptoms of amphetamine withdrawal include:

• Tremors
• Nausea 
• Mood swings
• Hallucinations
• Vomiting 
• Anxiety

A better life is within your reach. Our experienced team of medical professionals at The Recovery Village provide around-the-clock care to patients at countless nationwide treatment facilities. We’re always here to lend a hand to you or a loved one. Recovery is possible. Call today to speak with one of our intake coordinators.