Poly drug use, also known as combining multiple drugs, refers to the practice of using two or more substances at the same time. This can include mixing prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or illegal substances. While some individuals may believe that combining drugs can enhance their effects, it can actually lead to serious and potentially life-threatening consequences. In this article, we will explore the effects of poly drug use on the body and mind, as well as the potential risks and dangers associated with this dangerous practice.
Polydrug use refers to the use of two or more psychoactive drugs in combination to achieve a particular effect. In many cases one drug is used as a base or primary drug, with additional drugs to leaven or compensate for the side effects of the primary drug and make the experience more enjoyable with drug synergy effects, or to supplement for primary drug when supply is low.
Risks
Poly drug use often carries with it more risk than use of a single drug, due to an increase in side effects, and drug synergy. The potentiating effect of one drug on another is sometimes considerable and here the licit drugs and medicines – such as alcohol, nicotine and antidepressants – have to be considered in conjunction with the controlled psychoactive substances. The risk level will depend on the dosage level of both substances. Concerns exist about a number of pharmacological pairings: alcohol and cocaine increase cardiovascular toxicity; alcohol or depressant drugs, when taken with opioids, lead to an increased risk of overdose; and opioids or cocaine taken with ecstasy or amphetamines also result in additional acute toxicity. Temazepam, a powerful hypnotic benzodiazepine, is notorious for causing death when mixed with other CNS depressants such as opioids, alcohol, or barbiturates.
Scheduling
Within the general concept of multiple drug use, several specific meanings of the term must be considered. At one extreme is planned use. On the other hand, the use of several substances in an intensive and chaotic way, simultaneously or consecutively, in many cases each drug substituting for another according to availability.