Speedballing – the deadly mix of stimulants and opioids – requires a new approach to prevention and treatment
Once associated with high-profile figures like John Belushi, River Phoenix and Chris Farley , this dangerous polysubstance use has become a leading cause of overdose deaths across the United States since the early- to mid-2010s.
I am an assistant professor of public health who has written extensively on methamphetamine and opioid use and the dangerous combination of the two in the United States.
As these dangerous combinations of drugs increasingly flood the market, I see an urgent need and opportunity for a new approach to prevention and treatment.
Dating back to the 1970s, the term speedballing originally referred to the combination of heroin and cocaine. Combining stimulants and opioids – the former's 'rush' with the latter's calming effect – creates a dangerous physiological conflict.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, stimulant-involved overdose fatalities increased markedly from more than 12,000 annually in 2015 to greater than 57,000 in 2022, a 375% increase. Notably, approximately 70% of stimulant-related overdose deaths in 2022 also involved fentanyl or other synthetic opioids, reflecting the rising prevalence of polysubstance involvement in overdose mortality.
Users sought to experience the euphoric 'rush' from the stimulant and the calming effects of the opioid. However, with the proliferation of fentanyl – which is far more potent than heroin – this combination has become increasingly lethal. Fentanyl is often mixed with cocaine or methamphetamine, sometimes without the user's knowledge, leading to unintentional overdoses.
The rise in speedballing is part of a broader trend of polysubstance use in the U.S. Since 2010, overdoses involving both stimulants and fentanyl have increased 50-fold, now accounting for approximately 35,000 deaths annually.
This has been called the fourth wave of the opioid epidemic. The toxic and contaminated drug supply has exacerbated this crisis.
Stimulants like cocaine increase heart rate and blood pressure, while opioids suppress respiratory function. This combination can lead to respiratory failure, cardiovascular collapse and death. People who use both substances are more than twice as likely to experience a fatal overdose compared with those using opioids alone.
The conflicting effects of stimulants and opioids can also exacerbate mental health issues. Users may experience heightened anxiety, depression and paranoia. The combination can also impair cognitive functions, leading to confusion and poor decision-making.
Speedballing can also lead to severe cardiovascular problems, including hypertension, heart attack and stroke. The strain on the heart and blood vessels from the stimulant, combined with the depressant effects of the opioid, increases the risk of these life-threatening conditions.
Increasing awareness about the dangers of speedballing is crucial. I believe that educational campaigns can inform the public about the risks of combining stimulants and opioids and the potential for unintentional fentanyl exposure.
There is a great need for better access to treatment for people with stimulant use disorder – a condition defined as the continued use of amphetamine-type substances, cocaine or other stimulants leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, from mild to severe. Treatments for this and other substance use disorders are underfunded and less accessible than those for opioid use disorder. Addressing this gap can help reduce the prevalence of speedballing.
Implementing harm reduction strategies by public health officials, community organizations and health care providers, such as providing fentanyl test strips and naloxone – a medication that reverses opioid overdoses – can save lives.
These measures allow individuals to test their drugs for the presence of fentanyl and have immediate access to overdose-reversing medication. Implementing these strategies widely is crucial to reducing overdose deaths and improving community health outcomes.
This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Andrew Yockey, University of Mississippi
Read more:
Rat poison is just one of the potentially dangerous substances likely to be mixed into illicit drugs
Kim Kardashian West and ecstasy: A reminder of the social dangers of the drug
Nitazenes are a powerful class of street drugs emerging across the US
Andrew Yockey does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
To better detect chemical weapons, materials scientists are exploring new technologies
Chemical warfare is one of the most devastating forms of conflict. It leverages toxic chemicals to disable, harm or kill without any physical confrontation. Across various conflicts, it has caused tens of thousands of deaths and affected over a million people through injury and long-term health consequences. Mustard gas is a class of chemical that isn't a gas at room temperature – it's a yellow-brown oily liquid that can vaporize into a toxic mist. Viktor Meyer refined the synthesis of mustard into a more stable form. Mustard gas gained international notoriety during World War I and has been used as a weapon many times. It is nearly impossible to guarantee that mustard gas will never be used in the future, so the best way to prepare for the possibility is to develop a very easy way to detect it in the field. My colleagues and I, who are chemists and materials science researchers, are keen on developing a rapid, easy and reliable way to detect toxic chemicals in the environment. But doing so will require overcoming several technological challenges. Effects on human health and communities Mustard gas damages the body at the cellular level. When it comes into contact with the skin or eyes or is inhaled, it dissolves easily in fats and tissues and quickly penetrates the body. Once inside the body, it changes into a highly reactive form that attaches to and damages DNA, proteins and other essential parts of cells. Once it reacts with DNA, the damage can't be undone – it may stop cells from functioning properly and kill them. Mustard gas exposure can trigger large, fluid-filled blisters on the skin. It can also severely irritate the eyes, leading to redness, swelling and even permanent blindness. When inhaled, it burns the lining of the airways, leading to coughing, difficulty breathing and long-term lung damage. Symptoms often don't appear for several hours, which delays treatment. Even small exposures can cause serious health problems. Over time, it can weaken the immune system and has been linked to an increased risk of cancers due to its effects on DNA. The effect of just one-time exposure carries down to the next generation. For example, studies have reported physical abnormalities and disorders in the children of men who were exposed to mustard gas, while some of the men became infertile. The best way to prevent serious health problems is to detect mustard gas early and keep people away from it. Detecting mustard gas early The current methods to detect mustard gas rely on sophisticated chemistry techniques. These require expensive, delicate instruments that are difficult to carry to the war front and are too fragile to be kept in the field as a tool for detecting toxic chemicals. These instruments are conventionally designed for the laboratory, where they stay in one location and are handled carefully. Many researchers have attempted to improve detection techniques. While each offers a glimpse of hope, they also come with setbacks. Some scientists have been working on a wearable electrochemical biosensor that could detect mustard gas in both liquid and vapor form. They succeeded in developing tiny devices that provide real-time alerts. But here, stability became a problem. The enzymes degrade, and environmental noise can cloud the signal. Because of this issue, these strips haven't been used successfully in the field. To simplify detection, others developed molecularly imprinted polymer test strips targeting thiodiglycol, a mustard gas breakdown product. These strips change color when they come into contact with the gas, and they're cheap, portable and easy to use in the field. The main concern is that they detect a chemical present in the aftermath of mustard gas use, not the agent itself, which isn't quite as effective. One of the most promising breakthroughs came in 2023 in the form of fluorescent probes, which change color when they sense the chemical. This probe is a tiny detective tool that detects or measures the target chemical and generates a signal. But these probes remain vulnerable to environmental interference such as humidity and temperature, meaning they're less reliable in rugged field conditions. Some other examples under development include a chemical sensor device that families could have at home, or even a wearable device. Wearable devices are tricky, however, since they need to be small. Researchers have been trying to integrate tiny nanomaterials into sensors. Other teams are looking at how to incorporate artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence could help a device interpret data faster and respond more quickly. Researchers bridging the gap Now at Washington University in St Louis, Makenzie Walk and I are part of the team of researchers working on detecting these chemicals, led by Jennifer Heemstra and M.G. Finn. Another member is Seth Taylor, a postdoctoral researcher at Georgia Tech. Our team of researchers hopes to use the lessons learned from prior sensors to develop an easy and reliable way to rapidly detect these chemicals in the field. Our approach will involve testing different molecular sensor designs on compounds modeled after specific chemical weapons. The sensors would initiate a cascade of reactions that generate a bright, colorful fluorescent signal in the laboratory. We are figuring out to which compounds these chemicals react best, and which might make a good candidate for use in a detector. These tests allow us to determine how much of the chemical will need to be in the air to trigger a reaction that we can detect, as well as how long it will need to be in the air before we can detect it. Additionally, we are investigating how the structure of the chemicals we work with influences how they react. Some react more quickly than others, and understanding their behavior will help us pick the right compounds for our detector. We want them to be sensitive enough to detect even small amounts of mustard gas quickly, but not so sensitive that they frequently give falsely positive results. Eliminating the use of these chemicals would be the best approach to avoid future recurrence. The 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention bans the production, use and accumulation of chemical weapons. But countries such as Egypt, North Korea and South Sudan have not signed or officially adopted the international arms control treaty. To discourage countries that don't sign the treaty from using these weapons, other countries can use sanctions. For example, the U.S. learned that Sudan used chemical weapons in 2024 during a conflict, and in response it placed sanctions on the government. Even without continued use of these chemical weapons, some traces of the chemical may still linger in the environment. Technology that can quickly identify the chemical threat in the environment could prevent more disasters from occurring. As scientists and global leaders collectively strive for a safer world, the ability to detect when a dangerous chemical is released or is present in real time will improve a community's preparedness, protection and peace of mind. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Olamilekan Joseph Ibukun, Washington University in St. Louis Read more: Is the US being hypocritical in taking years to destroy its chemical weapons, while condemning other nations for their own chemical weapons programs? A political philosopher weighs in Enzymes versus nerve agents: Designing antidotes for chemical weapons The importance of shining a light on hidden toxic histories Mekenzie Walk and Jen Heemstra contributed to this article. Heemstra lab receives funding from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). Solve the daily Crossword
Chicago Tribune
4 days ago
- Chicago Tribune
Dr. Diana Fishbein: This is how addiction science is saving lives
Like many who have endured childhood trauma, Shannon Hicks turned to drugs at an early age. Pregnant by 16 and a mother of two by 19, she was married and living in her first home — believing she was living the dream. Shortly after her 20th birthday, Hicks was in a serious car accident and prescribed opioids for the resulting pain. But the medication unearthed long-suppressed trauma from childhood sexual abuse, intensifying her opioid use and deepening her dependence. She described the effect of drugs as similar to being shielded from a storm. 'When it's pouring down rain on your car, and it's so loud you can't hear anything else … then you go under a bridge and suddenly, it's quiet. Drugs were my bridge,' Hicks said. Over the next two decades, Hick's addiction spiraled out of control. She endured four aortic valve replacements — two due to heart infections from reusing needles. Her body was deteriorating, and death felt imminent. But surviving the unthinkable became her turning point. Determined to reclaim her life and help others do the same, she began her recovery journey. But how, given the depths of her addiction? Sheer determination and courage gave her the strength to try. And Suboxone (buprenorphine) was the catalyst that made it possible. Using a 'replacement' medication, called medication-assisted treatment (MAT), to treat opioid addiction is backed by decades of research that have led to the development of a suite of such drugs. Clinical trials to determine the effectiveness of MAT have since proved their worth by helping hundreds of thousands overcome opioid use disorders. It was the medical support Hicks needed to begin the challenging work of healing. Just as critical to her recovery were harm reduction strategies. Access to sterile injection supplies helped her avoid further infection. Naloxone, a drug used to reverse opioid overdose, offered a safety net. And efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction gave her space to seek help without shame. Stigmatizing language portrays people who use drugs as immoral or criminal, pushing them away from care. Evidence shows that those who benefit from harm reduction and anti-stigma efforts are five times more likely to enter treatment than those not using the programs. These life-altering measures were made possible by federal investments in addiction science. The National Institute on Drug Abuse, part of the National Institutes of Health, has led much of the research on risk factors for addiction and how best to prevent it and, in those addicted, how to treat it. And the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have translated this science into public health practice — bringing treatment and prevention programs into schools, clinics and communities. These agencies have helped fuel transformative progress — increasing treatment access and outcomes, reducing secondary disease transmission, supporting families and preventing youth from using drugs. Policies informed by this research have lowered addiction-related crime, suicide, overdose and public health costs — proving to be not only effective, but also economically smart investments. But now, all the hard-won progress made for people like Hicks is at risk. Actions by President Donald Trump, the Department of Government Efficiency initiative, and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have already disrupted operations of federal agencies that fund addiction research. And most recently, the 2026 budget — otherwise known as the 'big, beautiful bill' — was passed into law, forecasting even deeper cuts to these agencies, billions below 2025 levels. Adding injury to insult, reductions in Medicaid, the largest single payer of behavioral health services in the U.S., including addiction treatment, will begin to take effect. If enacted, these cuts would further devastate addiction science and practice. Research into the causes, consequences and treatment of addiction would stall. Lifesaving clinical and community services would shrink or disappear. Programs shown to prevent youths from initiating drug use would vanish. We risk reversing decades of progress, condemning future generations to needless suffering and increasing the overall costs to society. This imminent threat has galvanized the addiction science community. In response, the Addiction Science Defense Network (ASDN) was formed to advocate for preserving addiction science research and research-based treatment, prevention and policies that help us to combat addiction. Nearly 500 addiction scientists and practitioners, 32 organizations representing more than 32,000 scientists and 100,000 providers, and the advocacy group Stand Up for Science — with 60,000 members — have endorsed a statement of concern. The statement and other advocacy efforts urge Congress, Kennedy and the directors of NIH, the CDC and SAMHSA to fulfill their responsibility to support science-driven policies and practices that protect public health. We ask that the damage already done be mitigated with bipartisan revisions to their budgets so that funding for these agencies is preserved to protect the solutions that help people recover, the services that stabilize families and the infrastructure that safeguards future generations from substance abuse. For Hicks, her story is one of both tragedy and triumph. Her life was nearly lost to addiction, but science-based treatment and compassionate care saved her. Today, she is a recovery coach, harm reduction specialist, youth prevention facilitator and enthusiastic advocate for medication-assisted recovery. She's also a full-time college student pursuing a master's in public health. Her transformation is proof of what's possible when research and recovery meet. With the right support, lives can be rebuilt. Futures can be reclaimed. Communities can heal. But without sustained investment in addiction science, Hick's story could become the exception — not the rule. Diana Fishbein, Ph.D., is a senior behavioral neuroscientist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a part-time researcher at Penn State University.
Time Business News
22-07-2025
- Time Business News
Faith Overcomes Addiction: How the Word of God Offers Hope and Healing
Los Angeles, CA – Drug addiction continues to impact millions of lives globally, causing physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering. While medical treatments and therapies remain vital in recovery, many individuals have also found strength, restoration, and lasting healing through the transformative power of faith. A growing number of people are now turning to the Word of God for comfort and deliverance from addiction, discovering hope beyond what conventional interventions alone can offer. The YouTube channel God Word Heals Addiction is dedicated to spreading this message. Through uplifting content, testimonials, and biblical teachings, the channel aims to inspire and encourage those struggling with addiction, reminding them that true healing is possible. Understanding Addiction as a Disease Addiction is a chronic disorder characterized by the compulsive use of substances, despite harmful consequences. It often begins with recreational drug use or as a result of a prescription, eventually leading to dependency. Over time, substance use alters the brain's reward system, creating a cycle that's difficult to break without help. Experts agree that addiction should be treated as a disease, not a moral failure. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), factors such as genetics, mental health conditions, environment, and early exposure to substance use can all increase the risk of developing addiction. Signs and Impact of Drug Dependency The effects of addiction extend far beyond physical health. Individuals battling substance abuse may experience withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, depression, nausea, or restlessness when not using. Addiction can also lead to social isolation, job loss, family conflict, and a decline in mental well-being. Common signs include: Obsessive thoughts or behavior related to substance use Neglect of personal responsibilities and relationships Increased tolerance and dependence on the substance Emotional instability or changes in personality Despite the severity of the condition, many believe that lasting recovery is possible through a combination of medical support, community, and spiritual intervention. The Role of Faith in Recovery While science offers effective treatments, countless stories point to the incredible role faith plays in healing. Spiritual beliefs often provide people with the strength, purpose, and resilience they need to overcome even the darkest moments of addiction. One powerful passage that resonates with many seeking recoveries is: 'Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and He saved them from their distress. He brought them out of the utter darkness and broke away their chains.' – Psalm 107:13–14 This message lies at the heart of the God Word Heals Addiction YouTube channel. By sharing scripture-based encouragement, personal testimonies, and biblical insights, the platform serves as a beacon of light for those feeling hopeless or forgotten. Breaking the Myths About Addiction One of the most damaging myths surrounding addiction is that it's a personal failure or simply a matter of willpower. This belief often leads to shame and discourages people from seeking help. In reality, addiction is a complex condition influenced by multiple factors—and recovery is not just possible, it's within reach. Another common misconception is that faith and medicine cannot work hand-in-hand. In truth, many successful recovery journeys involve both. Medical treatment can address the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, while faith strengthens the soul, renews the mind, and helps restore purpose. A Message of Hope For those who are currently battling addiction or have loved ones who are, this message serves as a reminder: you are not alone, and healing is possible. The road to recovery may be challenging, but with faith, community, and perseverance, freedom is attainable. The God Word Heals Addiction channel invites anyone in need of encouragement to explore its content. It is more than a resource; it's a place of spiritual refuge and a voice of hope for the broken. To learn more, visit God Word Heals Addiction YouTube Channel. About the Channel: God Word Heals Addiction is a faith-based YouTube platform dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction through biblical teachings and spiritual support. The channel promotes hope, healing, and transformation for those seeking freedom from addiction. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
