Polysubstance Use
Polysubstance use occurs when someone takes two or more drugs (including prescription medications) at the same time or within a short period.
Polysubstance use can be intentional or unintentional.
Intentional polysubstance use occurs when an individual purposely takes more than one substance to increase, decrease, or experience the combined effects of the substances.
Unintentional polysubstance use occurs when an individual takes one or more substances that have been “cut” or mixed with other substances (such as fentanyl) without their knowledge.
Regardless of intention, mixing drugs is never safe. Side effects from combining drugs may be stronger and more unpredictable than a single drug—it can even be fatal.