![]() ![]() The Dangers of a Speedball: Polysubstance Abuse In reality, those who combine two drugs are at higher risk of side effects from both substances – as well as an increased risk of overdose. By taking an opioid, they seek to counteract the hyperactivity caused by cocaine. By consuming a stimulant, they hope to achieve an opioid’s euphoric effects without fatigue. However, this is a massive misconception. The prominent opinion among those who speedball is that using two drugs at once will “cancel out” the unwanted side effects of each substance. ![]() To negate the negative side effects of the drug. ![]() Because it activates different functions within the brain, speedballing is popular among intravenous drug users. With strong mu opioid receptor activation (and the resulting surge in dopamine) from heroin and increases in dopamine activity in certain regions of the brain (due to cocaine), the combination of drugs is extremely addictive. While each person will react differently to substance use, the reinforcing effects of heroin and cocaine are stronger than each drug by itself. The idea behind the speedball is twofold: However, combining heroin and cocaine can be a fatal decision. Why would someone decide to mix these two powerful substances? The answer is simple: to achieve a greater effect than either drug provides individually while negating side effects. However, some people will snort them both in powder form. Most often, these drugs are injected at the same time. However, it can also broadly apply to other mixtures (for example, substituting methamphetamine as the stimulant and taking opioid painkillers instead of heroin). Almost all individuals who use this term are talking about cocaine and heroin. When a person talks about a speedball, they are referring to the combination of a stimulant and a depressant (in this case, an opioid). What is a speedball? Today, we’ll explain the dangers of this prevalent form of polysubstance abuse. Combining multiple drugs with different methods of action – a stimulant and a depressant – creates greater potential for fatal overdose. However, even within the realm of illicit substance abuse, some activities are more dangerous than others. It’s no secret that addiction comes with a long list of risks. ![]()
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