Mixing Medications With Alcohol or Street Drugs
Substance Abuse
People who have schizophrenia often abuse alcohol and/or drugs. Mixing medications with alcohol or street drugs is very dangerous. Stimulants (such as amphetamines or cocaine) may cause major problems for patients with schizophrenia, as may PCP or marijuana. In fact, some people experience a worsening of their symptoms when they are taking these drugs. Patients who abuse drugs and/or alcohol are less likely to follow the treatment plans recommended by their doctors. In addition, substance abuse can make schizophrenia treatments less effective.
Schizophrenia and Nicotine
Many people with schizophrenia are addicted to smoking cigarettes. They are 3 times as likely to smoke cigarettes as the general population. People with schizophrenia may smoke to try to alleviate their symptoms. However, smoking may interfere with the effectiveness of some antipsychotic drugs. Several studies have found that schizophrenia patients who smoke need higher doses of antipsychotic medication. Quitting smoking may be especially difficult for people with schizophrenia. The symptoms of nicotine withdrawal may cause a temporary worsening of schizophrenia symptoms. Nicotine replacement methods may help patients to quit. Doctors should carefully monitor medication in patients with schizophrenia who start or stop smoking.
Talk to Your Doctor
If you have additional questions or concerns about this topic, talk to your doctor.
