Mixing drugs, or taking multiple drugs together, is known as polydrug use. It is common in those attempting to self-medicate. Reasons for polydrug use include:
- it can intensify or prolong the pleasurable effects of an individual drug
- it can help to balance or control negative effects of individual drugs
- it can substitute sought-after effects.
Combining drugs in this way is extremely dangerous and carries extra risks. The effects of the individual drugs when combined can be extremely unpredictable.
Polydrug use is known to multiply the rewarding effects of drugs in the brain, significantly increasing the likelihood of becoming addicted.
Polydrug use presents specific obstacles to recovery, but these are not insurmountable. With the right treatment, we can gain the knowledge, confidence and practical skills to free ourselves from addiction and create a more stable and fulfilling life.