Combining drugs with other substances has been a practice of many people for various reasons. Some do it because they feel like one drug alone doesn’t work enough, others do it to reduce the side effects of one drug, and there are also some who do it because they get high when they mix multiple drugs.
However, unbeknownst to many, some combinations can endanger you if done improperly. Mixing drugs or substances without the approval of a doctor can make you a candidate for various adverse effects such as worsened side effects, or even death.
How Does Marijuana Affect The Body?
Marijuana, also known as weed, or pot, is a psychoactive drug that is famous for the euphoric effects that it gives its users. It comes from the dried up and shredded parts of the cannabis plant. Furthermore, the drug is more often used for recreational purposes.
However, there are a lot of claims that it can treat various diseases such as nausea, pain, and loss of appetite. Some people have also claimed that it can treat more severe diseases such as epilepsy, diabetes, glaucoma, and even cancer. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to prove that marijuana can really treat these diseases.
Finally, marijuana contains the compound tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC. THC is a psychoactive drug that works by attaching itself to the cannabinoid receptors in our brain. Therefore, it prevents the chemicals in our brain from working as usual hence causing some side effects like euphoria, and drowsiness. (1)
Side Effects Of Weed
Many recreational users of marijuana claim that the drug causes limited and minimal side effects. However, the Food and Drug Administration has categorized the drug as a Schedule I drug due to its perceived abuse potential. The said category places the drug under the supervision of the Drug Enforcement Agency.
Here are some common side effects of taking weed: (2)
- Short-term memory problems
- Addiction
- Anxiety
- Decreased Quality of Life
- Panic
- Decline in IQ
- Hallucination
- Lowered Reaction Time
How Does Xanax Affect The Body?
Xanax is a benzodiazepine that works by binding itself to the GABA receptors in our brain and modulating their functions. The drug possesses sedative, anxiolytic, hypnotic, anticonvulsant, skeletal muscle relaxant, and antidepressant properties.
Many experts have stated that the drug has a lower potential for abuse compared to other benzodiazepines. However, there have also been other medical experts claiming that the drugs high potency and short elimination half-life can give the drug a substantial risk of abuse and misuse.
Side Effects of Xanax
The FDA categorized Xanax as a Schedule IV drug. This category means that a drug has a low or minimal potential for abuse. In addition, the drug generally has lesser side effects both in incidence and intensity compared to other benzodiazepines.
Here are some common side effects of taking weed: (3)
- Short-term amnesia
- Ataxia
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Hallucinations
- Skin rash
Xanax And Weed Interactions
Using Xanax and Weed together can increase the intensity of side effects present in both substances. These side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Taking both drugs at the same time may endanger someone partaking in strenuous activities, or activities that require mental awareness such as driving or operating heavy machinery.
With all that’s been said, remember to disclose to your doctor any substances you are currently taking before asking for a Xanax or medical marijuana prescription. Taking marijuana for either recreational or medical purpose may be illegal in some states. Thus, make sure to check out your local laws before taking it.
