Polysubstance Abuse and Addiction - Transformations Treatment Center. The use of multiple drugs, along with alcohol, can greatly complicate the course of addiction treatment. In addition, whether addicted or not, a person engaged in polysubstance abuse has an increased chance of experiencing a fatal overdose. Polysubstance Abuse Basics Among people who abuse drugs or alcohol, regular consumption of multiple substances is more the norm than the exception. In fact, current research indicates that people involved in polysubstance use make up the majority of those seeking treatment for their substance use problems[i]. There are a range of potential motivations for getting involved in this form of substance intake. The desire to avoid withdrawal symptoms associated with a particular substanceThe desire to avoid being overstimulated by the effects of a particular substance While some people may know the risks of their actions, others have no idea of the new dangers they face when they combine substances.
Which Substances Are Abused? How Common Is Multiple Addiction?