Mixing Alcohol and Intermezzo Side Effects, Interactions and Blackouts
Intermezzo is classified as a sedative-hypnotic but it has similarities to benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Klonopin. When Intermezzo is taken, it starts working quickly. The drug affects GABA neurotransmitters and receptors. GABA is a naturally-occurring brain neurotransmitter that plays a calming role in the body. When nerve activity in the brain is overactive, GABA reduces it. If someone’s brain isn’t naturally producing those calming chemicals, it can cause insomnia. Since Intermezzo improves the effects of GABA, it has a calming, sedative effect.
Along with drowsiness, side effects of Intermezzo can include memory impairment, dizziness, daytime drowsiness, loss of coordination and feeling lightheaded. Some people report feeling drugged when they use Intermezzo. Intermezzo is only prescribed for a few weeks. It’s not a long-term insomnia treatment because it is a habit-forming drug. People can also form a physical dependence on the drug after only a few weeks of using Intermezzo.
While taking Intermezzo, people do things such as sleepwalking, eating, having sex, or even leaving their house and driving without knowing it. People report finding out they did these things the next morning and have no memory of it. These occurrences are incredibly dangerous, and some people have even committed crimes without remembering or having any awareness. Mixing alcohol and Intermezzo can increase the chances of these side effects and blackouts.
When multiple CNS depressants are combined, overdose can happen as well. The risk of overdosing on Intermezzo alone is somewhat rare. When alcohol and Intermezzo are combined, that risk becomes significantly higher. Both alcohol and Intermezzo slow breathing and the heart rate. If they’re combined, they can slow breathing down to a dangerous level. Someone who overdoses on alcohol and Intermezzo may lose consciousness, go into a coma, suffer brain damage or die.
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Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
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