Polysubstance Use: Mixing Depressants

Depressants

Depressants (aka downers) slows down the central nervous system and decreases the breathing rate.

Examples: opioids (prescription opioids, heroin, morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl), benzodiazepines, alcohol

Mixing Depressants

Combining depressants can also directly or indirectly increase your risk of accidents or injuries, impaired judgement or coordination, nausea/vomiting, blackouts or memory loss, damage to the brain and other organs, overdose, and death. Mixing alcohol (considered a depressant) with other drugs can increase your risk of overdose and serious damage to the brain, heart, and other organs.