Combining alcohol with heroin or barbiturates will double the drug's effect and is the cause of many drug overdose deaths. True or False?

The statement is accurate. Combining alcohol with heroin or barbiturates significantly enhances the depressant effects of both substances, which can lead to life-threatening situations. This synergistic effect occurs because both alcohol and these drugs act as central nervous system depressants, causing severe respiratory depression, impaired motor functions, and decreased consciousness.

Such combinations are particularly dangerous because users may underestimate the effects or mistakenly believe they can manage their intake, leading to overdose. Many overdose deaths are attributed to this dangerous mix, demonstrating the critical importance of understanding the risks involved in combining substances. It underscores the necessity for individuals to be educated about substance interactions and the potential for increased harm, particularly in the context of recreational drug use and alcohol consumption.