When someone is addicted to more than one substance, the process of detoxification becomes significantly more complex—and dangerous. Polysubstance withdrawal occurs when the body must adjust to the absence of multiple addictive drugs at once. The symptoms can be intense, unpredictable, and even life-threatening without proper medical support.
At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center, we specialize in treating individuals with complicated substance use histories. Whether the combination involves opioids and benzodiazepines, alcohol and stimulants, or other dangerous mixes, our medical team provides safe, individualized care to guide clients through this critical phase.
What Is Polysubstance Use?
Polysubstance use refers to the habitual use of more than one addictive substance. This may include:
- Alcohol and benzodiazepines
- Opioids and stimulants (e.g., heroin and methamphetamine)
- Prescription drugs mixed with alcohol
- Illicit drugs used together to enhance or offset effects
Many people develop these patterns unintentionally—starting with one substance and adding others to either intensify the high or manage the side effects of withdrawal. Over time, the body becomes dependent on multiple substances, making detox more dangerous.
Why Is Polysubstance Withdrawal More Dangerous?
Each drug affects the brain and nervous system in different ways. During detox, the absence of these chemicals throws the body into a state of shock.
Here’s why polysubstance withdrawal is so risky:
- Conflicting withdrawal timelines: Some drugs leave the body in hours, others in days. Symptoms can peak at different times.
- Amplified symptoms: Withdrawal effects from one drug may intensify symptoms from another.
- Seizure and heart risks: Combining depressant withdrawals (like alcohol and benzos) or stimulant crashes can cause seizures, irregular heartbeat, or psychosis.
- Harder to predict: Medical staff must monitor overlapping withdrawal syndromes that don’t follow a predictable pattern.
Without professional supervision, polysubstance withdrawal can result in serious medical emergencies or fatal outcomes.
Common Symptoms of Polysubstance Withdrawal
Symptoms vary depending on the substances involved but may include:
- Anxiety, panic attacks, or paranoia
- Sweating, fever, and chills
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Muscle aches and tremors
- Sleep disturbances and nightmares
- Seizures or hallucinations
- Intense drug cravings
- Psychosis or suicidal ideation
People withdrawing from combinations like alcohol and benzodiazepines face especially high seizure risk. Others detoxing from stimulants and opioids may experience rapid mood swings and physical collapse.
How We Treat Polysubstance Withdrawal at MSDATC
At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center, we approach polysubstance withdrawal with heightened clinical awareness and a commitment to safety. No two detox plans are the same—we tailor each protocol based on the exact substances used, dosage, and client health history.
1. Medically Supervised Detox
Our licensed detox program ensures 24/7 medical oversight to stabilize vital signs, manage pain, and prevent complications. Clients are supported by nursing staff, prescribing physicians, and addiction specialists throughout the entire process. Learn more about detox here.
2. Medication-Assisted Support
When appropriate, medications such as buprenorphine (for opioid withdrawal) or anti-anxiety agents (for alcohol or benzo detox) are used to reduce discomfort and prevent seizures or other medical risks.
3. Nutritional and Hydration Therapy
We address the nutritional deficits common in long-term substance use to support overall healing, including hydration therapy, vitamins, and electrolyte rebalancing.
4. Dual Diagnosis Assessment
Polysubstance use often masks underlying mental health conditions. Our team conducts psychiatric evaluations early in the treatment process to guide long-term recovery planning.
5. Transition to Structured Rehab
Following detox, many clients step into our intensive outpatient program or full continuum of care, where therapy, group counseling, and aftercare planning help maintain sobriety and prevent relapse.
Why Early Intervention Saves Lives
Waiting too long to seek help for polysubstance addiction can increase the odds of a dangerous withdrawal and long-term damage. Some individuals attempt to quit “cold turkey” at home, unaware of the dangers—and the result can be fatal.
Recognizing the signs early and seeking professional detox in a licensed facility is one of the most important steps toward recovery.
Get Safe, Expert Help for Polysubstance Withdrawal in Mississippi
Polysubstance withdrawal is a medical condition that requires professional care—not willpower. If you or someone you love is using more than one substance and wants to stop, don’t go through it alone.
Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center provides safe, compassionate, and medically sound detox services tailored to each person’s unique needs. Our team understands the complexities of multi-drug dependence and is ready to help you begin your recovery journey with the dignity and care you deserve.
Connect today to take the first step toward lasting sobriety.
(855) 334-6120
MississippiDATC.com
13251 Reece Bergeron Road, Biloxi, MS 39532
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