Hi,
My doc prescribed Ultram(for pain) with Valium (muscle spasms) and said to be sure not to drink on the combo. One of Ultrams side effects is seizures and he seems to think that the combo + alcohol will make seizures more probable. As far as Ultram making you wasted, I feel really dizzy (another common side effect) when I take it even without Val. Thats about it. It's hard to say if it's bad for your friend when everyones physiology is different.Is this friend taking 1 50mg Ultram and 1 10mg valium?
Just thought I'd pass along my experience. Oh I was also warned NOT to take SSRI's (Zoloft, Prozac, etc)with Ultram as they too make a seizure more probable.

Hope this helps!

-VOR