Both methadone and Xanax target the central nervous system (CNS) and disrupt brain function.
When abused, these prescription drugs can individually cause adverse side effects. But Xanax and methadone together can be even more dangerous. This deadly combination may not only amplify certain side effects, but it could also increase the individual’s risk of central nervous system depression and overdose. Our drug and alcohol treatment center in Pompano is sharing the dangers of mixing methadone and Xanax.
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What Is Methadone?
Methadone is a synthetic analgesic opioid that produces similar effects to morphine but is longer acting. It’s often used as a substitute drug in the treatment of opioid addiction. Methadone can also be used to treat mild to chronic pain. It works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain and blocking the high from substances like codeine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and heroin. Although Methadone is an opioid and produces similar effects to other opioids like heroin and morphine, its long activity in the body makes it an effective way to reduce addiction cravings and help taper a person off of opioids.
While methadone is utilized in certain addiction treatment programs, it doesn’t come without its side effects.
Common methadone side effects include:
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Difficulties sleeping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Itchiness
- Excessive sweating
- Weight gain
- Mood swings
- Blurred vision
- Decreased sexual drive
Although methadone may be used to treat opioid use disorder, it’s never the only form of treatment an addict will receive. Methadone can also be abused and should only be taken as prescribed by a physician. It’s not a form of treatment that is suitable for everyone. At Banyan Treatment Centers Pompano, we offer opiate treatment that can help patients who come to our facility with opioid addiction achieve long-term sobriety.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax, also referred to as Alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine that’s used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Like methadone, Xanax is also a CNS depressant and can act as a sedative. It reduces nerve activity in the central nervous system by enhancing the effects of an amino acid that acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). When the levels of GABA are increased, it causes feelings of calm and relaxation.
While Xanax bars can help treat anxiety disorders, it also has a high potential for abuse. Its high potency and short half-life cause users to use more of it more frequently in order to experience the same side effects.
Some common Xanax side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach pains
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Insomnia
- Problems with memory
- Poor balance or lack of coordination
- Irritability
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle weakness
- Dry mouth
- Decreased sexual drive
- Swelling in the hands or feet
- Fluctuations in weight
Certain side effects of Xanax are similar to those of methadone. However, a Xanax pill is much more potent than the average dose of methadone. Combined with its short-lived effects, it has become a commonly abused substance. At Banyan Pompano, we offer an effective benzo treatment that targets the effects of benzodiazepines like Xanax, helping patients recover both mentally and physically from drug abuse.
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Can You Take Methadone and Xanax Together?
No, you cannot take Methadone and Xanax together. Taking Methadone mixed with Xanax is dangerous because both are CNS depressants and can increase a person’s risk of experiencing respiratory depression and overdose. Using both together can make side effects more intense and increase the user’s risk of suffering from an overdose. Polydrug abuse is common when it comes to abusing prescription drugs. Many methadone users begin incorporating benzodiazepines like Xanax into their routine to experience a more intense high. The effects of taking methadone and Xanax include respiratory depression, coma, overdose, and even death. Without prescription drug addiction treatment, users are more likely to continue engaging in polydrug use and suffer from methadone and Xanax overdose.
Despite how deadly a methadone and Xanax combination is, combining the two is still a common practice among many prescription drug abusers. As the opioid epidemic continues, our substance abuse treatment center in Pompano is working hard to administer safe and effective addiction treatment to all of our patients.
If you or a loved one needs treatment for Xanax or methadone abuse in Florida, call Banyan Treatment Centers in Pompano now at 888-280-4763 for more information about our rehab facility and levels of care.
