From the Guidelines
Taking Librium and drinking alcohol again is extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs, as it can lead to severe central nervous system depression, worsen withdrawal symptoms, and even death. Combining these substances can cause excessive sedation, impaired coordination, slowed breathing, memory problems, and in severe cases, unconsciousness, respiratory depression, or even death, as both Librium and alcohol enhance the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that slows brain activity 1. The interaction is particularly dangerous because Librium stays in your system for a long time, so even if you take Librium and drink alcohol hours or days apart, they can still interact.
Some key points to consider when taking Librium and considering drinking again include:
- The risk of severe central nervous system depression, which can be life-threatening
- The potential for worsened withdrawal symptoms when the alcohol wears off
- The undermining of the purpose of Librium treatment, which is to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms
- The importance of strict abstinence from alcohol in patients with evidence of alcohol-induced liver disease, as continued alcohol use is associated with disease progression 1
If you're struggling with the urge to drink while on Librium, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance rather than drinking alcohol, as they can provide support and help you manage your symptoms and cravings. Additionally, medications like naltrexone or acamprosate may be considered in combination with counseling to decrease the likelihood of relapse in patients with alcohol abuse/dependence who achieve abstinence 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
WARNINGS: ... The concomitant use of alcohol or other central nervous system depressants may have an additive effect. The use of Librium (chlordiazepoxide) with alcohol may have an additive effect, which can increase the risk of impaired mental and physical abilities.
- The combination may impair mental alertness and physical abilities, making it hazardous to perform tasks such as driving a vehicle or operating machinery. It is recommended that patients be warned about the potential risks of combining Librium with alcohol 2.
From the Research
Effects of Librium and Alcohol Consumption
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the effects of taking Librium and starting to drink again 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- The studies primarily focus on medications such as disulfiram, naltrexone, and acamprosate for treating alcohol dependence, with no mention of Librium 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
Treatment of Alcohol Dependence
- Naltrexone and acamprosate are two medications approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence, with varying degrees of efficacy and safety 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- Disulfiram is another medication used for treating alcohol dependence, but it has significant adverse effects and compliance difficulties 3.
- The combination of naltrexone and acamprosate has been studied, with some evidence suggesting its potential benefits for treating alcohol dependence 4, 5.
Medication Efficacy and Safety
- Acamprosate has been shown to increase abstinence rates and reduce relapse rates, with a good safety profile 4, 5, 7.
- Naltrexone has been found to reduce relapse rates and cravings, but its efficacy and safety vary depending on the study and population 3, 4, 6, 7.
- The safety and efficacy of combining medications for treating alcohol dependence are being researched, with some promising results 4, 5, 6.