Understanding Cross-Fading

Cross-fading (also known as polysubstance use) is never safe, as the effects may be stronger and more unpredictable than either drug alone. Often cross-fading/polysubstance use is intentional, as individuals take two substances to increase or decrease the effects of a particular substance or because they want to experience the effects of the dual combination.(1)   

Other times, polysubstance use is unintentional. This often occurs when one substance has been unknowingly mixed or adulterated with another. For example, illicit substances are often adulterated with fentanyl, unbeknownst to those using the illicit substances.(1) In fact, lab testing reveals that 7 out of every 10 pills seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration contains a lethal dose of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine.(2,3)

Regardless of whether cross-fading is intentional or unintentional—nor whether the substances are prescription or illicit—polysubstance use is dangerous and can be deadly in some instances. 

Common Substance Combinations & Associated Effects

Although alcohol and marijuana combinations are the pairings most frequently associated with cross-fading, the term may also be used to describe the simultaneous use of multiple substances in any form that produces synergistic effects.

Examples Include:

• Mixing Depressants (e.g., Alcohol, Marijuana, Benzodiazepines, etc.)  — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that combining depressants can directly increase your risk of overdose, death, and damage to the brain and other organs.(4) Additionally, cannabis and alcohol are one of the most frequently detected drug combinations involved in car accidents. A recent study also indicated that this pairing produces significantly higher concentrations of THC in the blood than cannabis use alone.(5) Additionally, mixing alcohol with benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Ativan, etc.) can produce severe sedation including severe respiratory depression that can lead to death.(6) 
• Mixing Stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, etc.) — Mixing stimulants can indirectly or directly increase the risk of heart attack, liver damage, stroke, and brain injury.(4)
• Combining Stimulants With Depressants (e.g., Alcohol/Cocaine, Benzodiazepines/Adderall, etc.) — Stimulant and depressant combinations produce an increased risk of overdose, as the effects of one substance can often mask the effects of the other, prompting individuals to take excess amounts to achieve the same perceived effect.(4)

General Effects of Being Cross-Faded

Cross-faded individuals can also experience a range of effects nearly impossible to predict. In general, however, they will likely experience intensified symptoms, increased impairments, and a heightened risk of adverse consequences.

Intensification of Cross-Fading Effects & Symptoms

• Increased Sedation — Many combinations of substances with depressant properties can lead to oversedation, life-threatening respiratory distress, unconsciousness, and overdose. If opioids are involved, naloxone may be administered to reverse an overdose. However, if the brain experiences a lack of oxygen for a significant period, serious brain damage can occur even if death is averted. Additionally, naloxone has a limited time of effectiveness and may need to be administered repeatedly. Thus, in cases of overdose, it's imperative to seek medical attention immediately, even if naloxone is administered and the individual appears to be breathing normally.(7)
• Intensified Euphoria — Although perceived as desirable, experiencing feelings of profound well-being and grandeur can lead to increased impulsivity and dangerous behaviors. For example, overconfidence combined with impaired cognitive function and coordination can lead to high-risk behaviors such as driving or swimming while under the influence.
• Severe Cognitive and Motor Skills Impairments — Many intoxicating substances can result in extreme impairments in memory, judgment, and coordination. Drinking alcohol and/or using multiple drugs can significantly intensify these issues. Blackouts can also occur, in which memories of events experienced while intoxicated are either faint or non-existent.
• Increased Risk of Heart Problems — Mixing stimulants with depressants can dramatically increase the risk of experiencing cardiovascular issues, including hypertension, a rapid or irregular heartbeat, and, ultimately, a heart attack. 
• Hyperthermia — Mixing stimulants such as cocaine, meth, and MDMA can significantly increase body temperature and metabolic rate. Due to feelings of energy and euphoria, those under their influence may also engage in prolonged episodes of physical exertion, which can be compounded in hot or humid environments.
• Increased Risk of Fatal Overdose — Certain combinations of substances can lead to fatality, often due to respiratory or cardiac complications. While some drugs are unlikely to cause death on their own even if misused, mixing them with other depressants or stimulants can dramatically increase the risk of a life-threatening overdose.

Other Cross-Fading Risks & Dangers

In addition to the adverse effects experienced by individuals who are cross-fading, other potential risks and dangers are associated with this behavior.

Legal Consequences

Polysubstance use can be associated with illegal activities, which in turn can result in arrests and criminal prosecution. These activities can include public intoxication, possession or sale of illegal/controlled substances, driving while impaired, assault, etc. Consequences can be severe and include fines, license suspension, and incarceration.

Mental Health Impacts

Those who engage in cross-fading often do so as a means of self-medication. However, polysubstance use can worsen existing mental health conditions and increase the risk of adverse consequences. 

Mental Health Impacts of Cross-Fading Include:

• Increased risk of anxiety and panic attacks
• Worsened symptoms of depression
• Impaired cognitive functioning
• Increased risk of psychotic symptoms
• Interaction with medications
• Heightened risk of self-harm and suicidal ideations

Reach Out Today To Learn More

Using multiple substances simultaneously can be far more risky and unpredictable than using one alone. Additionally, the use of certain combinations can be dangerous and even life-threatening. If you are engaging in cross-fading (or any type of polysubstance use) seek professional help to prevent future adverse outcomes and learn healthier coping skills to manage stress, trauma, and other underlying causes.

At CuraSouth, we believe that no one should have to combat addiction alone. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive recovery programs and receive a free, no-obligation health insurance benefits check. We are committed to helping each client access the treatment they need to reclaim their lives and experience long-lasting sobriety and wellness. Reach out today and take your first step toward lasting recovery.