A polysubstance is the accidental or purposeful combination of multiple drugs at once. Any combination of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, or prescription medications counts as polysubstance use. Substance use on its own comes with many dangers. But polysubstance use is even more dangerous because certain drugs may interact. The risk of overdose is increased when using a polysubstance.
Learn more about polysubstance addiction treatment in California by calling 877.296.7477. We can help you or a loved one find a treatment center for polysubstance addiction.
What Is a Polysubstance?
Polysubstance use is anytime someone combines one or more drugs at the same time or over a short period of time. Most people understand that substance abuse is a significant issue in American society. But how common is polysubstance abuse? Research indicates that mixing drugs is the norm rather than the exception.
One study found people who use opioids also use other drugs at the same time at high rates. In addition, people who use alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin engage in polysubstance regularly. Another phrase related to polysubstance that people might be familiar with is “drug cocktail.” This is when two or more drugs are combined on purpose.
Multiple risk factors for polysubstance use exist. Young people have a higher risk of polysubstance, as do those with lower levels of educational attainment or who are unemployed. The existence of a mental health condition also leaves someone at higher risk of developing polysubstance abuse. Lastly, severe tobacco or alcohol use can also leave someone positioned with the likelihood of using a polysubstance.
Dangers of Polysubstance Use
Polysubstance use is dangerous. Basically, it takes the dangers of each substance being used and amplifies them together. The big dangers of polysubstance come down to health problems, mental health conditions, and overdose.
First, mixing drugs poses several short- and long-term health risks. Repeatedly mixing different drugs can lead to permanent damage to vital organs, like the liver or heart. Polysubstance abuse also increases the risk of:
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Seizures
- Brain injury
Polysubstance poses a danger related to mental health conditions. This can be the worsening of a preexisting condition or else the onset of a new condition resulting from drug abuse. The last danger of polysubstance use is overdose. Using multiple drugs at once always increases the risk of an overdose. This is especially true when opioids are involved.
Another fact to know about polysubstance abuse is that it can sometimes be accidental. For instance, drugs purchased illicitly may be cut with unknown substances. Someone with an opioid addiction may think they are purchasing crushed prescription medications or heroin but actually receive something laced with fentanyl, thereby creating heightened danger. The risk of the unknown points back to the overall danger of overdose when it comes to polysubstances. If you do not know what you are taking, you do not know what amount is safe.
What Does Polysubstance Treatment Look Like?
The first step in polysubstance treatment is always detox. This process should be medically supervised as it is often mentally and physically challenging. Detoxing from multiple substances means experiencing withdrawal symptoms potentially from both. These withdrawal symptoms can include some or all of the following:
- Mood swings
- Sweating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Aches and pain
- Irritability
- Anxiety and depression
The next step after detox is residential or intensive outpatient treatment. Different therapies that can help during polysubstance treatment are cognitive behavioral treatment, motivational interviewing, and family therapy. Most people also attend peer support groups during polysubstance treatment.
Discover Polysubstance Treatment at Oceanfront Recovery
Oceanfront Recovery is a leader in the addiction and mental health treatment field. Learn more about our approach to polysubstance treatment by reaching out to 877.296.7477. We can answer any questions you have about polysubstance treatment and addiction in general. We want to be a resource for you during this difficult time.
