The risks and dangers of mixing heroin with alcohol may outweigh the benefits. Heroin has a detrimental impact on the brain and body when introduced into the system. Learning about the effects of heroin and alcohol can support learning about the risks of using this dangerous drug.
Heroin and Alcohol Effects
Alcohol reacts chemically in the body with heroin. Heroin is an opiate painkiller which creates feelings of euphoria, along with analgesic effects. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant which can intensify the effects of heroin. Heroin and alcohol can have an additive effect which causes both drugs to become stronger. This can cause accidental overdose or alcohol poisoning. Some of the following effects have been reported when heroin is mixed with alcohol:
- Euphoria
- Numbness
- Lightheadedness
- Relaxation
Dangers of Mixing
Taking alcohol and heroin together can create adverse reactions along with the additive impact of both central nervous system depressants together. Some potentially dangerous effects of mixing the drugs together include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Shallow breathing
- Slowed or irregular heartbeat
- Tremors
Alcohol does not only intensify the effects of heroin, alcohol also is dangerous as a sedative. It is possible to experience greater intoxication from alcohol when mixed with narcotics which can lead to a greater risk of alcohol poisoning.
Risk of Overdose
The risk of an overdose on heroin can occur when it is mixed with alcohol. Heroin is extremely dangerous by itself since it is a street drug but it is difficult to know if it has been contaminated and how strong any given dose may be. Adding alcohol on top of this makes it worse. Heroin commonly ends up mixed with alcohol in spite of dangers but combining heroin with alcohol can cause breathing to slow or even stop it completely. The only way to avoid this is to not mix the two drugs.
While people may want to experiment while using heroin or alcohol, it is not recommended to mix the two drugs for the reasons previously mentioned. The drugs are dangerous alone, but a possible lethal cocktail together. For people who are thinking about mixing the drugs or have done so in the past, it is never too late to think about the repercussions of doing this and to seek help for drug use which can have detrimental effects on a person’s overall health. Learning to navigate resources for recovery from addiction can be helpful when seeking ways to quit using either heroin or alcohol if it has become a problem.
Cypress Lake Recovery believes family dynamics are important to individuals in recovery. We encourage you to consider treatment if you are using heroin or alcohol or mixing these two dangerous drugs. We are here to support you in moving past addiction to having a fulfilling life you deserve. Our programs, resources and excellent staff will help you through your recovery. Call us today at 1-866-217-2636.
