Addiction is never an easy challenge because it affects the body physically and mentally. Drugs affect the brain’s reward system by flooding it with dopamine. This causes a person to experience intense cravings and powerful urges to use the drug. These cravings can be so intense that a person may feel unable to control them and continue using despite the negative consequences, spiraling an addict’s life out of control.
Most drugs are highly addictive, especially illegal ones. Unfortunately, many prescription drugs can be abused, such as Xanax. Some even mix them with other drugs, such as weed, to create a more intense high. If left unchecked, these drugs can make a person become an addict faster, but few people know about the consequences of mixing Xanax and weed. For this reason, we will discuss the details in this article.
Mixing Xanax and Weed
It is unclear how taking Xanax and marijuana simultaneously could affect your body. However, both are central nervous system depressants, so they might slow down communication between the brain and body, thus having a possibly hazardous effect.
Xanax and weed can be used to relax and help manage anxiety, but you must remember that taking too much of either can cause adverse side effects. Combining the two can reduce the impact of each drug and increase the risk of overdosing on Xanax, so one must use caution when taking either of these drugs, and it is best to take them one at a time in small doses.
What Can Happen?
If one mixes Xanax and weed, the following effects may be apparent:
Central Nervous System Depression
Xanax, CBD, opioids, alcohol, and other drugs that affect the central nervous system should not be taken together. Taking these drugs together increases the number of benzodiazepines in the blood, which makes it harder for the body to break down Xanax. Smoking weed also has this effect, so it should be avoided.
Memory Impairment
Using cannabis and Xanax together could cause an increased risk of impairing cognitive function due to the combined effects of the two substances. The two drugs contain chemicals that interfere with how the brain functions by binding to receptors involved in storing and processing memories. Taking them together could amplify, negatively affecting memory, concentration, and other cognitive functions.
Severe Drowsiness
Both weed and Xanax can cause sedative effects. Xanax is known to bring a sense of calmness and promote sleep. On the other hand, the THC in marijuana stimulates the cannabinoid receptor, sending messages to the body that can induce sleep and help you sleep more deeply. Additionally, weed can cause a buildup of Xanax in the system, resulting in relaxation, drowsiness, and fatigue. All of these can lead to a powerful sedative effect.
Motor Coordination Impairment
Using Xanax or marijuana can make it difficult for a person to think clearly and control their movements. Combining the two substances can have an even more detrimental effect on the ability to coordinate and concentrate. This may cause a person to have difficulty with activities that involve motor skills.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is a medication used to treat anxiety, panic, seizure disorders, and occasional insomnia. It is a powerful depressant that relaxes the brain and the central nervous system. However, it can lead to sleepiness, dizziness, and confusion and become habit-forming if taken for too long. For this reason, it is only meant to be taken for a short period and should only be taken as directed by a doctor.
Xanax contains cellulose, corn starch, docusate sodium, lactose, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, and sodium benzoate. Additionally, the 0.5 mg tablet includes FD&C Yellow No. 6, and the 1 mg tablet contains FD&C Blue No. 2. Xanax is taken orally and is available in most drug stores and online pharmacies. It is a Schedule IV controlled substance, which means it has the potential to be abused and lead to physical and psychological dependence.
A Brief Background on Weed
Weed is a plant from the Cannabis family that is often used for recreational and medicinal purposes. Although it can provide health benefits, it is still illegal in many states and is considered a Schedule I controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Despite this, more and more countries are legalizing it for medical and recreational use.
When someone uses marijuana, the chemical compound THC binds to specific receptors in the brain, creating an array of emotions such as delight, serenity, and in some cases, unease or fear. It can also lead to lethargy, lightheadedness, and altered thought processes and memory.
The Effects of Long-Term Drug Abuse
Long-term drug abuse can cause permanent physical and psychological damage if left unchecked. The effects of long-term drug abuse include an increased risk of developing cancer, heart disease, stroke, and other chronic illnesses. Long-term drug abusers may also experience memory loss, impaired judgment, depression, anxiety, and paranoia. In addition, long-term drug abusers may experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop using the drug, which can be dangerous and even life-threatening.
Because of this, it is vital for someone with a substance abuse problem to seek professional help. Treatment options vary depending on the type of drug being abused and may include counseling, medication, and support groups. Treatment can help individuals understand their addiction and develop the skills and strategies to stay sober.
Treating Addiction
The best way to treat a person’s addiction is through rehabilitation. A rehab center is where individuals with an addiction to drugs or alcohol can receive treatment and support. Rehab centers provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to receive help in overcoming their addiction and learning how to cope with the challenges of sobriety. Depending on the individual’s needs, a rehab center may provide various services, such as detoxification, counseling, group therapy, medication management, and aftercare planning.
However, not all rehab centers are the same, so you must consider certain factors. These include:
Programs Offered
Different rehab centers offer programs tailored to the individual’s needs. Some may focus on inpatient treatment, where individuals stay at the facility for a certain period. Others may offer outpatient programs, where individuals can go to the facility during the day and return home at night. There are also day programs, which involve a few hours of treatment each day.
Professional Staff
The staff should be knowledgeable about the particular addiction and be able to provide the best possible care. They should also be able to provide support and guidance throughout the treatment process.
Health Insurance
Most rehab centers accept health insurance, which can help cover the cost of treatment. You should check with your insurance provider to find out what is covered and what is not.
Additionally, some addiction treatment centers are eligible for Medicaid and Medicare funding, so check with your local government to see if you qualify for any of these programs.
Treatment Duration
Varying degrees of addiction are treated for different lengths of time in a rehabilitation center. Generally, the more severe the addiction, the longer a person will need to stay in treatment. However, the treatment duration depends on various factors, such as the individual’s response to treatment, underlying mental health issues, and commitment to recovery.
Most rehabilitation centers offer inpatient and outpatient programs. Inpatient programs typically last from 30 to 90 days, while outpatient programs can last from one to three months. Finding the proper treatment length for you or your loved one is essential.
Cost
Rehabilitation costs money, and it can vary greatly depending on the type of treatment, duration, and facility. Inpatient treatment is typically more expensive than outpatient treatment. The rehab cost can also depend on whether it is a private or public facility.
Private facilities tend to be more expensive than public facilities due to their higher quality of care, amenities, and staff. Additionally, insurance companies may cover some or all of the rehab costs, depending on the type of insurance and treatment.
Conclusion
Addiction caused by mixing Xanax and weed is debilitating, so seeking professional help is essential, whether for yourself or a loved one. Addiction is never simple, but recovery is possible with the right help and support. All that matters is taking the first step toward a healthier, happier life.