By: An Addiction Specialist

Polysubstance use—mixing or alternating between multiple substances—is one of the most dangerous patterns I see in addiction work. Many people don’t start with fentanyl. They begin with alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, benzodiazepines, or prescription opioids. Over time, tolerance grows, the brain adapts, and the search for a stronger or more reliable high begins.

This is often where fentanyl enters the picture—sometimes intentionally, sometimes without the person even knowing. And once fentanyl becomes part of the cycle, the risks escalate dramatically.