Polysubstance dependence
| Polysubstance dependence | |
|---|---|
| Psychoactive substances | |
| Specialty | Psychiatry |
| Symptoms | Frequent poly drug use |
| Complications | Combined drug intoxication, drug overdose |
Polysubstance dependence refers to a type of substance use disorder in which an individual uses at least three different classes of substances indiscriminately and does not have a favorite substance that qualifies for dependence on its own. Although any combination of three substances can be used, studies have shown that alcohol is commonly used with another substance.[1] One study on polysubstance use categorized participants who used multiple substances according to their substance of preference. The results of a longitudinal study on substance use led the researchers to observe that excessively using or relying on one substance increased the probability of excessively using or relying on another substance.[2]
- ^ Malcolm, Barris P.; Hesselbrock, Michie N.; Segal, Bernard (2006). "Multiple Substance Dependence and Course of Alcoholism among Alaska Native Men and Women". Substance Use & Misuse. 41 (5): 729–41. doi:10.1080/10826080500391803. PMID 16603457. S2CID 33406853.
- ^ Newcomb, Michael D.; Galaif, Elisha R.; Locke, Thomas F. (2001). "Substance use diagnoses within a community sample of adults: Distinction, comorbidity, and progression over time". Professional Psychology: Research and Practice. 32 (3): 239–47. doi:10.1037/0735-7028.32.3.239.