Alcohol and other drugs: a combination to avoid

Taking different drugs at the same time greatly increases the risks because it can result in unpredictable effects. Even if drugs are used in small quantities, their effects can be multiplied and intensified and lead to serious and unpredictable symptoms. These complications can lead to severe intoxication or a fatal overdose.

It is impossible to predict the effects of mixing drugs. A multitude of factors can make them vary, whether they are related to:

• the person who is using (age, height, weight, physical condition, emotional or psychological state, etc.)
• the substance(s) used (quantity, speed of use, frequency, method of use, etc.)
• the context the person is using in (place, feeling safe, atmosphere, time of day, relationship with others, etc.)

Mixing drugs may or may not be intentional. Some psychoactive substances may have been mixed with other, sometimes toxic, substances without the knowledge of the people using them, and have unexpected or even dangerous health effects.

If you would like to find out about the effects of different drugs, consult the list of drugs and their effects.

Some people consume alcohol at the same time as another drug to mask the undesirable effects or because they do not know that alcohol could change their reaction to the other drug. However, such mixtures carry risks. They can produce serious and unpredictable effects.

The stimulant effect of energy drinks can mask the depressant effect of alcohol. Consuming the two at the same time can lead you to believe that your coordination and reflexes are intact. However, this is not the case because the effects of alcohol remain the same. Consuming these two products at the same:

• makes coordinating movements more difficult
• reduces attention
• reduces reaction time

Consuming alcohol with some medicines can cause you to feel the effects of alcohol quicker and stronger. Combining these substances can also cause significant discomfort.

Even over-the-counter drugs, such as medication for fevers and colds, can be dangerous if taken with alcohol. If you are taking medicines, read the instructions on the packaging before drinking alcohol. For further information or if you are unsure, consult a pharmacist.

If you would like to get help or information on the consumption of alcohol or other drugs, there are professionals available to assist you, to listen to you and offer solutions without judgment. Contact:

• your integrated health and social services centre (CISSS) or your integrated university health and social services centre (CIUSSS). To find contact information, go to Finding your CISSS or your CIUSSS
• Drugs: Help and Referral: 1‑800‑265‑2626
• Info-Santé 811