Polysubstance abuse occurs when someone uses two or more substances simultaneously or within a short period. While the motivations and circumstances behind polysubstance use vary, the risks and consequences are almost always severe.
Understanding Polysubstance Abuse
Often, people who are already reliant on one substance may begin using another for various reasons. For some, it’s an attempt to intensify the effects of a specific drug after building a tolerance. For others, the decision may stem from the impaired judgment that accompanies intoxication, leading them to impulsively experiment without taking time to consider and understand the risks.
While polysubstance use may temporarily amplify your desired high, it will also multiply the adverse effects. Each drug comes with different side effects, which can be highly unpredictable when they interact inside your body.
Common Polysubstance Combinations
Whether intentionally or accidentally mixed, drugs taken together interact in ways that amplify their effects. You may chase the heightened euphoria of specific drug pairings, while others may turn to additional substances to dull unwanted side effects like anxiety or nausea. Here are some of the riskiest combinations involved in many polysubstance abuse cases.
- Alcohol and opioids: These central nervous system depressants can dangerously slow your breathing and heart rate when taken together, increasing the risk of overdose.
- Alcohol and benzodiazepines: This pair is another depressant duo, leading to a dangerously compounded effect on motor skills, memory, and respiratory function.
- Stimulants and depressants: Stimulants like cocaine or amphetamines can mask the effects of depressants like alcohol and opioids, leading to overuse and a higher chance of overdose.
- Prescription medications and alcohol: Since alcohol is so prevalent and largely destigmatized, people may ignore or downplay the risks of drinking while taking medications like antidepressants or sleep aids. Unfortunately, even a single beer or glass of wine can result in severe consequences when paired with these drugs, including blackouts or respiratory distress.
Why Is a Polysubstance Use Disorder Dangerous?
Unpredictability is the most immediate risk of using more than one substance at a time. People who engage in this behavior may lose their ability to gauge how impaired they have become, leading them to consume far more than their body can handle. Overdose is also a possibility, particularly with drugs that suppress the central nervous system.
Additionally, polysubstance abuse often accelerates the development of physical and psychological dependence, making it even harder to recover without professional help. The withdrawal process is also more complex for people who are dependent on multiple substances, requiring medical detox to circumvent overlapping or intensifying symptoms.
Do You Struggle With Polysubstance Abuse?
Help is available if you feel unable to stop using more than one substance. Polysubstance addiction is a complicated condition, but NEM Recovery welcomes you if you have a genuine desire to heal. Joining our recovery community will keep you accountable and connected as you work toward breaking the cycle of addiction.
Often, polysubstance use is a coping mechanism for underlying trauma, mental health conditions, or unresolved emotional pain. Our professionals will work with you to uncover and address these root causes. During your time with us, you will also learn new ways to manage stress and complex emotions.
NEM Recovery specializes in treating complex cases of addiction, including polysubstance abuse. Our small, supportive community and personalized treatment plans are here to help you heal and thrive. Connect with us to learn how we can help you reclaim your life with empathy, understanding, and top-of-the-line care.
