POLYSUBSTANCE ABUSE
Polysubstance Use: What Is It? What Are the Dangers?
Focusing on one problem like opioid overdoses or methamphetamine use misses the bigger picture: the polysubstance use that is so common. A look at the most common drug combinations provides insight into the extent of this challenging issue.
The Dangers of Using Multiple Drugs at the Same Time
New research indicates that many overdoses among young people involve multiple drugs. An addiction to one substance is terrible enough, but addiction to numerous substances is even worse and is becoming more common. What unique challenges are faced by addicts who use multiple types of drugs? And how can those individuals be helped?
Looking Beyond Opioid Addiction—How Polysubstance Abuse is Becoming the Norm
A new study indicates that clinicians need to look beyond opioid addiction, mainly because the vast majority of addicts are now using more than one substance. When someone is addicted to more than one drug, the stakes are much higher, the risks much more significant, and the need to get help far more pressing.