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Over 20% of adults in the US are multiple drug users and have consumed several different types of drugs within the past year, reports indicate. The data are based on research conducted by the University of Colorado and published in the American Journal of Public Health.
The study was based on more than 30,000 participants and revealed four distinct patterns among adults who use recreational drugs such as marijuana, illegal drugs such as cocaine, and prescription drugs.
Researchers found that 11.5% of subjects fell into the medically guided use category, which encompasses those people using prescribed drugs and some cannabis.
Another 4% were in the cannabis focused use group, which are people who use cannabis with various other drugs, typically at the same time.
An additional 3.4% were classified in the self guided use category, using prescriptions without a doctor’s guidance.
Finally, 2.1% of participants were placed in the indiscriminate use category, which describes those who use several different drugs without a specific preference for recreational or prescription drugs.
Karilynn Rockhill, who is a researcher at the Colorado School of Public Health and lead author of the study stated, “Our findings reveal a more nuanced picture of substance use in the U.S. It’s essential we shift toward tailored approaches in both healthcare and public health to address these diverse drug use patterns and ensure that we provide effective prevention and treatment options.”
The research also indicated that those specifically in the “indiscriminate use” or the “cannabis focused use” have higher rates of substance use disorders. They also are less likely than the other cohorts to receive consistent medical and mental health care.
Rockhill noted that the results show there needs to be new and better outreach programs and more personalized strategies for the prevention and treatment of addiction. Current approaches being used may not be sufficient to address the different ways people are using drugs and the unique and complex needs of polysubstance users.
She stated that “Improving screenings by doctors and public health outreach can help identify risks and support in reducing or quitting substance use.”
