Substance abuse can cause significant changes to a person’s health, emotional well-being, and behaviors. The effects of drugs differ from substance to substance. Some are mild or temporary, but some have the potential to be life-threatening.

One symptom of drug abuse can be nodding off. Nodding off is a dangerous, temporary loss of consciousness that can occur when people abuse certain substances. It is important to understand the risk of nodding off. You must seek treatment for substance abuse as early as possible. This can help you avoid life-threatening complications.

This article will explore what nodding off means and what drugs can cause it. You will learn:

• What happens when people nod off on drugs
• What substances may cause people to nod off
• The dangers of nodding out on drugs
• How to recognize and treat substance abuse
• Where to find comprehensive treatment programs and recovery support

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse, you are not alone. Reach out to the Moving Mountains Recovery specialists now to explore our holistic approach to addiction treatments. Contact our intake specialists with questions about our programs, to verify insurance, or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Nodding Off?

Nodding off is a dangerous symptom of certain types of substance abuse. Nodding off– sometimes called nodding out– means temporarily falling asleep or slipping in and out of consciousness.

Temporarily losing consciousness is a common symptom among people who use drugs that slow down central nervous system (CNS) activity.[1] When people nod off, they may look as though they are falling asleep. They may struggle to stay awake, even when walking, talking, or performing other complex actions. 

When people nod off, they may talk, mumble, or be quiet. If someone speaks to them or touches them, they may wake up. However, they will likely return to their semi-conscious state immediately afterward.

Nodding off is not the same as falling asleep or dozing off because of boredom. It is a symptom of someone who has ingested a CNS depressant at a high enough dose to cause a loss of consciousness.

Nodding out typically indicates that a person is struggling with addiction to benzodiazepines, opioids, or other depressant drugs.

What Drugs Can Cause Nodding Out?

Any central nervous system depressant can cause people to nod off. Here are some of the substances commonly associated with nodding out.

Opioids

Opioid addiction is a severe problem in the United States. Millions of people use and abuse opioids, and many become physically dependent on them. Opioid addiction can lead to serious, sometimes life-threatening health problems.[2] People must receive comprehensive treatment options to address the short and long-term effects of opioids.

Many people associate nodding off with heroin addiction or other forms of opioid abuse. Prescription opioids like oxycodone, fentanyl, and morphine can cause people to nod out. Illegal opioids like heroin can also put people into a state of semi-consciousness.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are a type of prescription sedative drug. People may take them to treat a range of mental health and medical conditions, including:

• Panic disorder
• Anxiety
• Sleep disorders, including insomnia
• Alcohol withdrawal disorder

Commonly prescribed benzodiazepines include:

•  Valium
•  Xanax
•  Ativan

Benzodiazepines work by suppressing CNS activity. Users may experience reduced anxiety, calming, and sedation.[3] People who use large doses of benzodiazepines may experience extreme drowsiness or nod off.

Alcohol

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. Alcohol slows brain activity and can cause drowsiness or sedation. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can cause people to nod off or temporarily lose consciousness.

Barbiturates

Barbiturates are prescription drugs that depress CNS activity. Abusing these drugs increases the risk of excessive sedation and nodding off.

Nodding out refers to temporarily losing consciousness because of substance abuse. It is a sign that a person needs help to manage their substance use. It can be very dangerous, and it is essential to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of substance abuse or addiction.

What are the Risks of Nodding Off on Drugs?

Temporarily losing consciousness can be dangerous in any situation. Nodding off on drugs puts people at immediate risk of harm and can lead to life-threatening consequences. Here are some of the most significant risks associated with nodding off on drugs.

Overdose

Losing consciousness or frequently nodding off may be disorienting. People may unintentionally use larger doses of a drug or take more than they intended.[4] This puts people at risk of a fatal overdose, especially when abusing opioid drugs.

Accidents

Losing consciousness while doing other activities, such as walking or driving, puts people at immediate risk for life-threatening harm. Many of the drugs associated with nodding off can also reduce people’s judgment and coordination. This increases the likelihood of accidents, being the victim of a crime, and other injuries.

Breathing problems

Nodding off can suppress breathing. People may breathe more slowly, or their breath can become very shallow. Depressed breathing can lead to a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, resulting in coma or death.[5] 

People who abuse drugs and exhibit dangerous behaviors like nodding off require intensive, comprehensive treatments. People may attend inpatient or outpatient programs to get the help they need. Addiction treatment programs typically involve medications, education, support groups, therapy, and other evidence-based treatments that support long-term recovery.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Moving Mountains Recovery specialists now to explore our holistic treatment and recovery programs. Contact us to learn more about your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.