A speedball is a combination of heroin, a depressant drug, and cocaine, a stimulant. It is often injected into the body, but can also be snorted. People take it for the euphoria they feel from both drugs, but the high comes with many risks. It increases the risk of overdose and long-term health complications. It can also lead to the use of other illicit substances and increase the likelihood of contracting bloodborne diseases, such as HIV.
In addition, a common problem with speedballs is that they can be contaminated with fentanyl, which is up to 100 times more potent than heroin and can kill a person if inhaled. Fentanyl is frequently added to cocaine and heroin in order to cut costs, which puts users at risk of fatal overdoses.
Cocaine and Heroin Both Work on Different Parts of the Brain
A person who takes a speedball may experience a “push-pull” effect when using this mixture of drugs. Because the euphoric effects of cocaine wear off faster than those of heroin, individuals may inject themselves more and more frequently to maintain the same level of high. This can cause respiratory failure and heart damage, causing life-threatening problems.
Fortunately, there are ways to overcome speedball addiction and live a happy, healthy lifestyle. The first step is acknowledging the need for help and seeking treatment for a substance use disorder. Recovery programs like Cassiobury Court can provide detox, rehab and other evidence-based behavioral therapies to address the root causes of your addiction and prevent relapse.