Is Alcohol a Drug?
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Learn More About Ripple Ranch Recovery Center
Our team is standing by to discuss your situation and options. Your call is fully confidential, and no obligation is required.
Is Alcohol a Drug: Introduction
What comes to mind when you hear the word “drug?” Often, when people think of drugs, the images that come to mind are those of illegal substances like cocaine or heroin.
We rarely consider that substances ingrained in our social practices and customs could also be drugs. One such substance is alcohol.
Table of Contents
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What to Expect from This Article
In this article, we’ll delve deep into the question, “Is alcohol a drug?” We’ll compare alcohol with other substances classified as drugs.
We’ll highlight some potential health risks of consuming alcohol and its impact on mental and physical well-being. You’ll also discover how Ripple Ranch can help you heal from alcohol addiction.
Before we answer the question, “Is alcohol a drug?”, let’s look at what a drug is:
What is a Drug?
- Changes in perception and mood
- Consciousness and cognition alteration
- Behavioral changes
What are Drugs Used For?
- Prescription medications
- Over-the-counter remedies
- Caffeine
- Nicotine
- Illegal substances like heroin or cocaine
How are Drugs Classified?
- Intended use
- Potential for misuse
- Mode of action
- Effect on the body’s physiological or psychological functions
Is Alcohol a Drug?
Legality and Social Perception
Psychoactive Effects
Like many psychoactive drugs, alcohol can alter moods, emotions, and perceptions. Substances like stimulants (cocaine) increase alertness and energy. Alcohol, on the other hand, is a depressant that slows down brain activity. This can lead to relaxation but also impaired judgment and coordination.
Medical Use
Potential for Abuse and Addiction
Is Alcohol a Drug: Potential Health Risks of Consuming Alcohol
Liver Damage
- Inflammation
- Fatty liver
- Alcoholic hepatitis
- Fibrosis
- Severe scarring (cirrhosis)
Cardiovascular Problems
- High blood pressure
- Cardiomyopathy (deterioration of the heart muscle’s function)
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- An increased risk of stroke
Pancreatitis
Cancer
- Mouth
- Throat
- Esophagus
- Liver
- Colon
- Breast
Immune System Dysfunction
Gastrointestinal Problems
Bone Degradation
Mental Health Issues
It’s also associated with an increased risk of suicide. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) often co-occurs with other mental health disorders. This includes conditions like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This leads to the creation of a cycle that can be challenging to break.
Reproductive Health Issues
Is Alcohol a Drug: At What Point Does Alcohol Consumption Become Addiction?
Increased Tolerance
Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms
- Anxiety
- Shaking
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Severe symptoms like seizures and hallucinations
Inability to Reduce or Control Alcohol Use
Neglecting Responsibilities and Activities
Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences
Risk-Taking
- Driving under the influence
- Operating machinery
- Unsafe sexual conduct
- Using alcohol in physically hazardous situations
Relationship Issues
Escalation in Difficult Situations
Denial
Is Alcohol a Drug: How Does It Interact With Other Drugs?
Alcohol and Opioids/Narcotics
Combining alcohol with opioids like morphine, oxycodone, or hydrocodone is dangerous. Both substances depress the central nervous system and down functions like breathing and heart rate. When combined, they can significantly increase the risk of respiratory failure or overdose.
Alcohol and Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are often prescribed for anxiety and insomnia. They, like alcohol, are central nervous system depressants. When used together, the depressive effects can be amplified.
- Memory problems
- Low blood pressure
- Slowed or difficulty breathing
- Profound sedation
- Coma
Alcohol and Antidepressants
Alcohol and Stimulants
Alcohol and Antihistamines
How Does Ripple Ranch Help With Alcohol Addiction?
What We Offer
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Dual diagnosis treatment, and so much more
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The road to recovery is just a call away.