Polysubstance Use and the Overdose Crisis – How Tarzana Treatment Centers Responds
Polysubstance use—the simultaneous or sequential use of more than one drug—has emerged as a deadly force within the U.S. opioid crisis. While many Americans are aware of the dangers of opioids like heroin or prescription painkillers, few realize how often these drugs are consumed alongside other substances such as benzodiazepines, methamphetamine, cocaine, or alcohol. This growing trend is a major contributor to the alarming rise in accidental overdose deaths from substance use disorders.
A key danger of polysubstance use is the contamination of street drugs, especially with fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 100 times more potent than morphine. People often believe they are purchasing one drug but are unknowingly taking fentanyl or a combination of drugs laced with it. As a result, accidental fentanyl overdoses continue to skyrocket.
Unfortunately, the unpredictable composition of illicit drugs means users have no way of knowing what they are taking. This uncertainty dramatically increases the risk of fatal overdose. There is another reason why addicts and partygoers like polysubstance use.
Polysubstance Use and the Greater High
In an article published by the Canadian Government entitled “Evidence synthesis—Patterns and motivations of polysubstance use,” researchers conclude that “Polysubstance use is often motivated by a desire to improve the experience based on expected effects of combinations.”
Thus, young people out and about, getting high and letting loose on the weekend, are suddenly taking greater risks than ever. Indeed, it is like an entire generation playing Russian Roulette. In the search for the perfect high, they are stumbling into a deadly game that leads to tragedies. Given the threat, substance use disorder treatment services are in great need nationwide.
TTC and Polysubstance Use
At Tarzana Treatment Centers (TTC), we are tackling the polysubstance use crisis with an integrated care model that combines medical, mental health, and substance use disorder services. Our holistic approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive treatment tailored to their needs.
One cornerstone of our treatment model is Medications for Addiction Treatment (MAT). TTC offers FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine (Suboxone), methadone, and naltrexone to reduce cravings, ease withdrawal, and prevent relapse. MAT is especially critical for those at risk of fentanyl exposure, as it helps stabilize patients and avoid overdose.
Community Education about Polysubstance Use
Beyond clinical care, TTC strongly emphasizes community education and overdose prevention. Our outreach programs inform the public about the hidden dangers of polysubstance use and the prevalence of fentanyl in counterfeit pills and street drugs. TTC also distributes naloxone (Narcan), a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses.
In today’s unpredictable drug landscape, polysubstance use is a leading cause of unintentional death. However, recovery is possible with effective, integrated treatment and proactive prevention efforts. At Tarzana Treatment Centers, we are committed to saving lives and building healthier communities — one person at a time.