How Dangerous is Combining Uppers and Downers?

Uppers and downers, also known as stimulants and depressants, can be particularly risky when combined as the side effects of both drugs may be augmented or otherwise altered in unexpected ways.

Cocaine and methamphetamines (“meth”) are common uppers or stimulants. Alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines (“benzos”) are common downers or depressants. Dependency on multiple drugs or an addiction to several drugs but not necessarily a preferred drug of choice is referred to as polysubstance abuse. 

Risks Associated with Combining Upper and Downers 

Uppers like cocaine, meth, stimulant prescription drugs, and MDMA, have their own common risks when abused. Common effects and side effects of abusing uppers can include:

• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Agitation 
• Restlessness
• Headache
• Muscle tension
• Jaw clenching
• Tremors
• Chest pains
• Heart palpitations
• Paranoia 
• Insomnia

Combining multiple uppers can have dangerous results. Examples include:

• Extreme aggression
• Erratic behavior 
• Dehydration
• Increased body temperature 
• Seizure
• Hypertension
• Brain damage 
• Liver damage 
• Hyperthermia
• Stroke
• Heart failure
• Overdose 

Much like using high doses of a single drug, any time uppers are combined it can increase the likelihood of overdose. Similarly, combining downers increases the likelihood of overdose. 

The following are common effects and side effects that can occur when a person abuses downers:

• Lowered inhibitions
• Drowsiness
• Sedation
• Dizziness
• Irritability 
• Shakiness or tremors 
• Impaired reflexes 
• Impaired short-term memory
  • This can result in “brownouts” or “blackouts” 

Combining multiple downers can result in dangerous side effects that can include:

• Unpredictable behavior 
• Dangerously slow breathing 
• Respiratory arrest
• Weak pulse
• Organ damage 
• Loss of consciousness
• Overdose 

“Speedballing” which was historically a combination of heroin and cocaine can result in immediate cardiac arrest. Combining potent uppers and downers within a very short period of time is especially hard for the human body to process.

The “rush” associated with combining stimulants and depressants is known to be extremely addictive. This is especially disconcerting as the risks are extra high. 

Side effects of abusing uppers and downers in methods like a speedball can result in:

• Intense anxiety
• High blood pressure
• Irregular heartbeat
• Suppressed breathing
• Cardiac arrest 
• Organ damage 
• Loss of consciousness
• Overdose  

Understanding Polysubstance Abuse

The combination of uppers and downers can be appealing to those with substance abuse disorders. There are many reasons why this may or not be the case and it depends on the way an individual metabolizes particular drugs.

The appeal of one drug over another may be because a person’s body generally responds better, that is, produces more euphoric and desirable effects and, at least initially, minimal side effects. In the long run, a full-blown addiction never takes anyone down a positive path. 

Polysubstance abuse is commonly used when an individual has developed an addiction to multiple substances and regularly seeks all of them.

What is somewhat unusual about polysubstance addictions is that the individual has not formed a strong preference for a single substance. In this instance, they may have developed cravings for the effects that are associated with mixtures or combinations of substances. 

Common examples of polysubstance addictions can include combinations of the following:

• Opioids and alcohol 
• Cocaine and alcohol
• Alcohol and benzodiazepines
  • Xanax, Valium, Klonopin
• Opioids and benzodiazepines
• Barbiturates and stimulants
  • Cocaine, meth
• Opioids and cocaine
• Meth and opioids 

Common Reasons For Using Uppers and Downers

There are many reasons why people turn to substances such as uppers or downers as a coping mechanism, and understanding these reasons is crucial to addressing the root causes of substance abuse. Substance use often begins as a way to escape, numb, or manage overwhelming emotions, stress, or pain.

However, what starts as a temporary solution can quickly spiral into dependency or addiction. There is a wide range of common triggers and risk factors that predispose individuals to develop substance abuse problems.

These factors are often interconnected, creating a complex web of challenges that can make it difficult for individuals to break free from the cycle of addiction. Common factors may include:

Trauma: Experiencing traumatic events, such as physical or emotional abuse, accidents, or violence, can leave deep emotional scars. Many individuals turn to substances as a way to cope with the lingering effects of trauma, as drugs or alcohol may provide a temporary sense of relief or numbness.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): PTSD, a condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, often leads to severe anxiety, flashbacks, and emotional distress. Individuals with PTSD may use substances to self-medicate and alleviate their symptoms, even though this can worsen their condition over time.

Mental health issues: Conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia can significantly increase the risk of substance abuse. Many people with untreated or undiagnosed mental health disorders turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their symptoms, leading to a dangerous cycle of self-medication.

Work-related anxiety: High-pressure jobs, long hours, job insecurity, or toxic work environments can contribute to chronic stress and anxiety. For some, substances become a way to unwind or escape the pressures of their professional lives, but this can quickly develop into a harmful dependency.

Home life issues: Dysfunctional family dynamics, domestic violence, or a lack of emotional support at home can create an environment where substance use becomes a coping mechanism. Individuals may feel isolated or unsupported, leading them to seek solace in drugs or alcohol.

Family stress: Ongoing conflicts, financial strain, or caregiving responsibilities within a family can take a toll on an individual’s mental health. The stress of managing these challenges may drive some people to use substances as a way to cope.

Death in the family: The loss of a loved one can be devastating, and the grieving process can be overwhelming. Some individuals may turn to substances to numb their pain or escape the intense emotions associated with grief.

Genetics: Research has shown that genetics play a significant role in an individual’s susceptibility to addiction. Those with a family history of substance abuse are more likely to develop similar issues themselves, as they may inherit a predisposition to addictive behaviors.

Biological factors: Differences in brain chemistry, such as imbalances in neurotransmitters like dopamine or serotonin, can influence how individuals respond to substances. Some people may be more prone to addiction due to the way their brains process and react to drugs or alcohol.

Environmental factors: The environment in which a person lives can have a profound impact on their likelihood of developing substance abuse problems. Factors such as peer pressure, exposure to drugs or alcohol, and a lack of access to positive recreational activities can all contribute to the risk of addiction.

Family history of substance abuse: Growing up in a household where substance use is normalized or prevalent can increase the likelihood of an individual developing similar habits. Children who witness substance abuse in their families may be more likely to view it as an acceptable way to cope with stress or emotions.

Early exposure to drugs and alcohol: Being introduced to substances at a young age can significantly increase the risk of addiction. Adolescents and young adults whose brains are still developing are particularly vulnerable to the effects of drugs and alcohol, and early exposure can lead to long-term dependency.

Low-income household: Financial instability and the stress of living in poverty can contribute to substance abuse. Individuals in low-income households may face chronic stress, limited access to healthcare, and fewer opportunities for education or employment, all of which can increase the likelihood of turning to substances as a coping mechanism.

Low-income neighborhood: Living in a neighborhood with high crime rates, limited resources, and widespread substance use can create an environment where drug or alcohol abuse is more common. The lack of safe spaces, recreational opportunities, and community support can further exacerbate the risk of addiction.

These factors, whether occurring individually or in combination, can create a perfect storm that leads individuals to rely on substances as a way to cope with life’s challenges. Addressing these underlying issues through therapy, support systems, and community resources is essential to breaking the cycle of substance abuse and helping individuals build healthier coping mechanisms.

Contact Oasis Recovery about Personalized Recovery Options

Since those who have developed addictions to multiple substances often have co-occurring disorders and require a dual diagnosis, it is especially encouraged that individuals seek out professional treatment.

The medical experts at Oasis Recovery know how to help those with polysubstance addictions and related challenging life circumstances. We work with clients to develop a personalized treatment plan that is designed to meet your individual needs and recovery goals.

Our doctors and mental health counselors are committed to finding lasting recovery for each and every one of our clients. Contact us or call us directly today to learn about treatment options.