The Dangers of Drug Mixing

In 2019, nearly 50% of drug overdose deaths involved multiple drugs, according to the CDC’s fact sheet on Polysubstance Use. This number highlights the extreme dangers that can result from dangerous drug combinations.  

Let’s look at some of those dangers and understand the risks that come with drug mixing. Then, we can explore where to find help for those afflicted by drug addiction. 

Explanation of Drug Mixing 

Polysubstance use disorder (formerly polysubstance abuse) is defined by the Cleveland Clinic as using more than one substance and following a pattern of use that affects your health and quality of life. In other words, it’s when someone is mixing substances to experience a combination of addictive effects. 

When mixing drugs, the risk of overdose increases, and can be done unintentionally. Even with prescription drugs, if one is not mindful about what they are taking, they can accidentally cause adverse reactions and overdoses. 

The Dangers and Risks 

• Mixing Stimulants 

• Stimulants (uppers) increase your heart rate and blood pressure. Combining stimulants may directly or indirectly increase your risk of brain injury, liver damage, heart attack, stroke, etc. (CDC) 

• Mixing Depressants 

• Depressants (downers) slow your breathing to dangerous rates. Such a severe reduction in oxygen intake from the effects of multiple depressants can quickly lead to brain damage, organ failure or death. (CDC) 

• Mixing Stimulants and Depressants 

• Taking both types of substances at the same time will not cancel out the effects of each other. Rather, the effects can sometimes be masked from one substance, which could lead someone to think they are not being affected by a substance, thus leading to taking more of the substance up to the point of overdose. (CDC) 

• Alcohol with Any Drugs 

• This is never safe to do. Alcohol acts as a depressant, and when combined with any drugs can increase the risk of organ failure or overdose. (CDC) 

  
  

These are just the physical health risks involved; there are also mental, emotional, and social consequences that can arise from untreated polysubstance use disorder. Overall, taking multiple substances at once can be extremely dangerous and should be avoided. 

Conclusion & Resources 

Taking multiple substances at once can be extremely dangerous, but it can be avoided if you are informed and mindful of the dangers. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use disorder, please seek help from a licensed healthcare provider. For more information, visit Don’tRiskItAll.com. Additional resources listed here. 

Sources 

• CDC, POLYSUBSTANCE USE FACTS 

• Cleveland Clinic, Polysubstance Use Disorder: What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment