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Few of us have heard of the \u2018combat cocktail\u2019. For combat vets returning from the front line, it\u2019s all too familiar. Soldiers who come home with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), insomnia, depression, anxiety, or chronic pain are commonly prescribed a potent blend of medication. This is the combat cocktail, also known as \u2018zombie dope\u2019.<\/p>\n
While these meds are intended to soften symptoms associated with psychological and physical trauma, veterans commonly report that zombie dope throws a new set of side effects into the mix. Vets who swallow the daily dose of benzodiazepines, SSRIs, and opioids often report feeling on edge, irritable, drowsy, or zombie-like.<\/p>\n
Of even greater concern is the potential link to increased suicide. More than 20 veterans succumb to suicide<\/a> every day, with one recent headline proclaiming that suicide has been more deadly for the military than combat<\/a>.<\/p>\n