Skip to main content

When individuals mix Xanax and Adderall together, it can be extremely harmful to their health. This combination ultimately causes damage to the central nervous system. Both of these prescribed medications have addictive properties and, if abused or taken for prolonged periods of time, can lead to a chemical dependence on the drugs.

If you mix Adderall and Xanax together, it can have powerful, devastating effects on the user and can lead to serious health issues and, if abused, can cause death.

What is Xanax?

Xanax, formally known as Alprazolam, is prescribed to treat panic or anxiety disorders. Additionally, it can be used to treat feelings of anxiousness that may be caused by depression.

Xanax is a Benzodiazepine because it is essentially a depressant that slows down the central nervous system. Xanax is prescribed to help individuals with panic disorders or an anxiety disorder feel calmer and more at ease in daily life.

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, Xanax can be “habit forming” and has a “higher risk for overdose.” Although Xanax can help relieve symptoms of panic disorder, anxiety disorders, and depression, it can be extremely dangerous if paired with other drugs or alcohol.

What is Adderall?

Adderall is most commonly prescribed for individuals diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD is a brain disorder that impacts a person’s ability to pay attention, remain on task, and behave appropriately. Individuals diagnosed with ADHD often display signs of impulsive behavior and frequent patterns of hyperactivity. Adderall may also be used to relieve the symptoms of narcolepsy, a sleep disorder categorized by an overwhelming feeling of tiredness.

Adderall is classified as a stimulant because it increases dopamine levels in the brain and an individual’s blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature.
The risk of addiction to Adderall increases if individuals use other types of drugs or consume alcohol. Adderall contains addictive properties and if individuals increase their recommended dosages or take it with other drugs or alcohol, it can cause detrimental effects on the person and can lead to addiction.

Mixing Xanax and Adderall Together

Because both drugs have addictive properties, mixing Xanax and Adderall together increases an individual’s risk of being addicted to the drugs. Xanax and Adderall impact the central nervous system and alter the natural functions of the brain. Since Xanax is a depressant and Adderall is a stimulant, using the drugs together decreases the effectiveness of either drug for an individual’s respective diagnosis.

Some individuals diagnosed with ADHD may try and take Xanax to decrease the severity of feelings of anxiousness, but this may lead to a misuse of the drug and can have harmful side effects on the user. Simultaneously, taking Adderall to help individuals suffering from an anxiety or panic disorder increase their ability to stay focused can inadvertently cause heightened levels of anxiousness and harmful effects on the individual’s heart rate and breathing rate.

Severity of Side Effects

When taken together, the severity of side effects from mixing Xanax and Adderall drastically increases. When taking Xanax, side effects may include:

• Shortness of breath
• Seizures
• Depression
• Problems with memory or even suicidal thoughts

When taking Adderall, severe side effects may also include shortness of breath, seizures, hallucinations, or a pounding heartbeat.

Separately, the severe side effects of taking Xanax or Adderall can cause a multitude of health problems and the drug itself can lead individuals to becoming chemically dependent. When taken together, the heightened chances of having seizures or other serious health concerns involving the functions of the brain, heart, and lungs can permanently impact a person’s overall health.

In severe cases, breathing can shut down, leading to death.

Alcohol and Illicit Drugs

When Xanax and Adderall are used with other destructive substances such as alcohol or illicit drugs, it can have fatal effects on the user. Alcohol is a depressant and if used with Adderall, a stimulant, the combination can potentially lead to a range of heart and respiratory problems. Additionally, if Xanax is paired with alcohol, it can also cause a range of breathing problems and in severe cases, liver damage. Mixing Adderall, Xanax, and alcohol together is never a good idea.

When Xanax and Adderall are paired with illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, or heroin, it can not only lead to side effects such as impaired memory and behavior, but can ultimately lead to death. When used together, the combination of prescription and illicit drugs can cause a complete shutdown of the individual’s central nervous system.

If an individual is suffering from addiction to Xanax or Adderall, the only solution to recovering from their addiction is to seek and receive professional drug addiction treatment.

Consult Professionals

For individuals struggling with a combination of addictive substances, seeking help and receiving a medical consultation is critical. Fortunately, proper treatment can help individuals overcome an addiction. Addiction is a disease that inhibits individuals from leading the whole and fulfilling life they were meant to live.

If you or someone you love is suffering from substance abuse, reach out and get help from a treatment team that is experienced in helping individuals recover from all types of substance abuse.

Covenant Hills Can Help You Beat Addiction

Covenant Hills Treatment Centers offer extensive program options that ensures a recovery plan is individually designed to meet the needs of every client. Our professionally trained staff of therapists, counselors, and pastors are highly experienced in helping patients recover from all types of substance abuse. With a foundation of faith and a committed staff, patients will learn to understand their difficult moments and avoid a relapse.

Do you need help, or is a loved one struggling with addiction? Please call us today at (800) 662-2873 for a free assessment. This is a confidential call. One simple call can change your life.