Effects of Mixing Alcohol and Crystal Meth
Crystal meth is a highly addictive drug that, when mixed with alcohol, can have extremely dangerous effects. The risks increase when someone is addicted to crystal meth and alcohol simultaneously.
Did You Know?
Crystal meth is not made by pharmaceutical companies or any legitimate medical manufacturer. It is made in back rooms or home labs. Some crystal meth makers use antifreeze and ingredients from batteries and cleaning fluids, and all of these are poisonous.
If you are addicted to crystal meth and alcohol, you may suffer intense, emotional and physical distress when you can’t access these substances. Many people addicted to these substances tend to binge for days or weeks, but after a prolonged period, they can no longer achieve the same high and may take both substances in higher amounts to satisfy the need to feel that high.
Knowing the dangers of mixing crystal meth with alcohol can help those addicted to crystal meth and alcohol be more receptive to seeking help.
Dangers of Mixing Crystal Meth with Alcohol
There are several dangers to mixing crystal meth with alcohol and other substances like cocaine or ecstasy. Crystal meth’s effects when mixed with these substances can be up to six times more intense than when it is taken alone.
Alcohol and crystal meth are substances used for their effects on mood. Crystal meth is an illegal form of methamphetamine, which is a stimulant prescribed to treat conditions like narcolepsy and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Alcohol is a legal substance, but it is a depressant that acts on the central nervous system and can cause impaired cognition and intoxication. When someone is addicted to crystal meth and alcohol, mixing the two is common. The effects of mixing alcohol and crystal meth can be dangerous because they cause the following:
- Stimulation. Stimulants like crystal meth increase heart rate and blood pressure dramatically, and cause euphoria and increased energy. Crystal meth also has appetite suppressant properties, which can lead to drastic weight loss. Alcohol’s effects are opposite to those of crystal meth because it is a depressant, and it can cause drowsiness, impaired thinking and reduced cardiovascular functioning. When a person is addicted to crystal meth and alcohol and takes the two substances together, the crystal meth and alcohol can counteract each other, and this impairs the person’s ability to gauge how intoxicated he or she is.
- Cardiovascular effects. The dangerous effects of taking crystal meth with alcohol include an increased risk of cardiovascular problems because the two together can increase your heart rate to dangerous levels, and this can lead to heart attack and stroke.
- Psychological effects. Crystal meth and alcohol both cause dramatic changes in mood and behavior. When the two are combined, these changes can lead to violent or impulsive behavior and high-risk activities. Those with an addiction to crystal meth and alcohol may see long-lasting psychological effects like moodiness, depression, irritability and anxiety and depression.
“The risks increase when someone is addicted to crystal meth and alcohol simultaneously. “-Projectknow.com
According to the Independent Alcoholism Help Council, many meth users will mix crystal meth in powdered form with drops of alcohol to form a liquid that can be injected into their body. This is a dangerous practice in itself, but with the alcohol already on hand, the person might continue to drink once he or she has injected the drug. A person who snorts or smokes crystal meth may also consume alcohol to increase the intensity of his or her high.
The first step to overcoming a drug abuse or addiction is seeking help.
Did You Know?
The Center for Addiction and Mental Health advises that methamphetamines like crystal meth are powerful uppers. The rapid high you get from meth is similar to cocaine, but unlike other methamphetamines, the effects of crystal meth can last for up to 12 hours.
Consequences of Combining These Drugs
“The first step to overcoming a drug abuse or addiction is seeking help.”-Projectknow.com
The dangerous effects of crystal meth increase when someone is addicted to crystal meth and alcohol, because crystal meth impairs your judgment regarding your alcohol intake. When high on the drug, you may not feel the intoxicating effects of alcohol, despite consuming large amounts. Because a crystal meth high can last for several hours, this extends the amount of time you have to consume alcohol, leading to hours binge drinking. This process can often lead to alcohol poisoning.
Other dangerous effects of mixing crystal meth with alcohol include:
- Delusions
- Violent outbursts
- Psychosis
- Paranoia
- Heart problems
- Respiratory problems
- Seizures
Did You Know?
People often become addicted to crystal meth and alcohol because crystal meth gives them energy and confidence. They feel stronger and more alert for several hours. Alcohol is often used to help intensify these feelings, and over time an addiction is formed to both substances.
Effects of Long-Term Use
Those addicted to crystal meth and alcohol for a prolonged period can suffer several permanent side effects. These can include:
- Memory loss
- Impaired cognition
- Depression
- Tremors
- Impaired coordination
- Paranoia
- Severe weight loss
- Teeth and gum damage
- Heart attack and stroke
People who are addicted to crystal meth and alcohol should not battle the addiction alone. We can help. Call any time to discuss your treatment options.