With the increase in the production of prescription drugs to treat a variety of ailments, there is the increased potential for people to have multiple drug addictions.
People who are using drugs illicitly often use more than one drug to enhance the perceived “high” of the primary drug or may drugs that have contrary reactions to balance their drug use. For example a person may use cocaine and take a tranquilizer to “come down” more quickly.
Multiple Drug Use Statistics and Patterns
Multiple drug addictions are increasing, as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) found that over the last decade the use of multiple prescription drugs increased by 20%, and the use of five or more drugs increased by 70%. The CDC also found that in 2007 and 2008 one out of ten Americans used five or more prescription drugs.
Alcohol used with marijuana makes the “high” last longer, but alcohol also increases the body’s cravings for marijuana. Anabolic steroids are often mixed with other steroids, because the user feels that it will increase the benefits and prevent the aggressive behavior associated with steroid abuse.
Cocaine users often think that alcohol will prolong the high and offset the mood swings, anxiety and depression common to cocaine use. Amphetamines and opiates are often combined to counteract the unwanted effects of each. None of these beliefs about the effects of multiple drug use are correct, and using more than one drug at a time increases the side effects associated with each.
Multiple Drug Addiction Treatment
Recovering from a single drug addiction is difficult, but many people who participate in inpatient residential treatment programs are successful at getting clean and staying clean. Comprehensive treatment is necessary for individuals with multiple drug addictions. By taking advantage of the following services you have an increased opportunity to maintain your recovery:
- Medically supervised detox services are critical for individuals recovering from multiple addictions, as multiple drug interactions and withdrawal symptoms lead to an increased safety risk.
- Individual and group counseling delves into the issues that lead to addiction and provides a wealth of knowledge and experience so that you can develop a set of lifelong skills for recovery.
- Aftercare support helps you through the transition period between rehab back to everyday life.