Because marijuana causes benzodiazepines like Xanax to be metabolized more slowly in the body, it is not recommended to combine the two substances.
Whether it’s an illicit drug, a prescription or an herbal supplement, every consumed substance has possible side effects, interactions and dangers of mixing it with other substances.
What about Xanax and marijuana? These are two substances that are frequently used, and sometimes abused, so what are the possible interactions and dangers of mixing the two? This article will explain.
Interactions and Dangers of Mixing Xanax and Marijuana
Marijuana is known to intensify the central nervous system depressant effects of benzodiazepines like Xanax. Cannabidiol, or CBD, can increase the level of benzodiazepines in your body because it makes it harder for your body to break them down.
This increases the amount of Xanax in your bloodstream. In turn, the side effects of Xanax may be heightened. For example, you may experience severe drowsiness or memory issues. In extreme cases, the risk of a Xanax overdose is possible.If you or someone you know is experiencing extreme side effects, call 9-11 immediately.
Interactions with other substances
Xanax can also have dangerous interactions with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol and opioids. If you mix Xanax with alcohol or opioids, it can lead to slowed breathing and death
Summing Up — Avoid Mixing Xanax and Marijuana
Mixing Xanax and marijuana can increase the amount of Xanax in your body, causing increased Xanax side effects like fatigue and issues with memory.
You may not know how you’ll react to mixing Xanax and marijuana, especially if the marijuana is obtained illicitly and you are not sure how potent it is. People have very different experiences with marijuana.
Always speak to a medical professional before mixing Xanax and marijuana, or any other substances. If you or a loved one develop an addiction, contact The Recovery Village to speak to a representative about how addiction treatment can work for you.
U.S. National Library of Medicine. “Xanax,” February 14, 2020. Accessed June 27, 2020.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. “Marijuana Research Report: What is the s[…]n the United States?” April 2020. Accessed June 27, 2020.
National Institute on Drug Abuse. “Marijuana Research Report: What are marijuana’s effects?” April 2020. Accessed June 27, 2020.
Government of the District of Columbia Department of Health. “Medical Cannabis Adverse Effects & Drug Interactions,” Accessed June 27, 2020.
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