Mixing Diazepam and Alcohol: What Are The Dangers & Side Effects?

In this article, we’ll explore the potential dangers of mixing diazepam and alcohol. We’ll cover the physical and mental effects that can occur when these substances are mixed, what the typical side effects might look like and how serious those side effects can be. As well as this, we will explain how to recognise the signs of an overdose, and whether mixing alcohol with Valium carries similar dangers. If you are considering diazepam or have concerns about combining it with alcohol, it’s essential to understand these risks fully and to seek medical advice.

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about diazepam and alcohol:

• Mixing diazepam and alcohol heightens the depressant effects of both substances on the central nervous system, which can lead to serious consequences like slowed breathing and unusually deep sleep that may make it difficult to wake up.

• Side effects from combining diazepam with alcohol include increased drowsiness, dizziness, memory problems, and impaired coordination.

• Mixing diazepam and alcohol significantly increases the risk of overdose, which can be life-threatening. Key symptoms of an overdose include extreme drowsiness, confusion, breathing difficulties, unresponsiveness, and potentially a coma.

• Valium, another benzodiazepine, carries the same risks as diazepam when combined with alcohol.

• Given the risks, it is essential to avoid combining diazepam (or Valium) with alcohol and to seek medical advice if there are any concerns.

What happens when you mix diazepam and alcohol?

When you mix diazepam with alcohol, the effects of both substances can intensify, often with serious consequences. Both substances are central nervous system depressants, meaning they work to slow down brain activity according to Talk to Frank. Alcohol also amplifies the sedative effects of diazepam, which can lead to an unusually deep sleep.

In some cases, this can cause breathing difficulties or even make it hard for someone to wake up (NHS, 2022). The alcohol awareness organisation drinkaware also highlights the importance of avoiding alcohol whilst you are using diazepam, as well as a number of different medications on their website.

What are the side effects of mixing diazepam and alcohol?

Combining diazepam with alcohol can cause a number of severe side effects due to the amplified depressant effects on the central nervous system. People who mix the two substances may experience increased:

• Drowsiness

• Dizziness

• Memory issues

• Issues with coordination

This also increases the risk of slowed or even stopped breathing, which can lead to a lack of oxygen to the brain and other organs with potentially fatal consequences (Mosel, Fifield & Thomas, 2024).

What are the signs of a diazepam and alcohol overdose?

An overdose from mixing diazepam and alcohol can be life-threatening, and recognising the signs is crucial. Common symptoms of an overdose include (Spinks & Durrani, 2023):

• Extreme drowsiness

• Confusion

• Slowed or difficult breathing

In severe cases, a person may become unresponsive, fall unconscious, or even slip into a coma. Heart attacks and seizures are also possible and can quickly cause a fatality without immediate medical help. If you or someone else shows any of these signs after taking diazepam with alcohol you should seek emergency medical assistance straight away. Quick medical intervention could be lifesaving.

Do the same dangers and risks apply to mixing alcohol with Valium?

Yes, the same dangers and risks generally apply to mixing alcohol with Valium. Valium, like diazepam, is a benzodiazepine medication, meaning it has similar sedative effects on the central nervous system. Combining Valium with alcohol can significantly increase the likelihood of severe side effects such as slowed breathing, lowered heart rate, confusion and drowsiness. Combining the two also raises the risk of overdose, which can result in unconsciousness, coma, or even death due to respiratory failure. 

Sources

Mixing Alcohol & Diazepam: Dangers and Risks - American Addiction Centers

What are the Effects of Mixing Valium and Alcohol? - American Addiction Centers