Drug treatments are becoming even more necessary with a new drug in town called Flakka. A highly addictive and extremely dangerous synthetic drug like this is not something to take lightly. Educating yourself on what kinds of drugs are out there will help you protect yourself and your loved ones from these toxic substances.
What are synthetic drugs?
Synthetic drugs are substances that are produced entirely from chemical reactions in a laboratory. The chemical structure of synthetic drugs can be quite similar to naturally occurring drugs, but are often designed in such a way that enhances the effects of the drugs, or prevents unwanted side effects.
One of the main reasons these synthetic drugs are extremely dangerous is because buyers don’t know what chemicals they are ingesting. Individual products can contain a vast range of different chemical formulations and potencies.
Based on their chemical make-up, these drugs are commonly divided into two categories:
- Cannabinoids: Chemically formulated versions of synthetic marijuana. These contain lab-manufactured THC and are commonly known as ‘K2’ or ‘Spice’.
- Cathinones: Chemically formulated to mimic the effects of drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine. These types of synthetic drugs are most commonly referred to as ‘bath salts’. That is until Flakka burst its way into the market.
What is Flakka?
Officially named alpha-PVP, Flakka is a dangerous synthetic cathinone drug that is surging through the streets of Florida and reportedly through other parts of the USA as well. Flakka is chemically similar to another synthetic cathinone drug popularly called ‘bath salts’. It takes the form of crystals that are white or pink in color and is suggested to have a repulsive smell. The drug can be taken in a multitude of ways; it can be injected, snorted or even eaten.
What are the effects of Flakka?
Flakka, like other synthetic cathinone drugs, causes a condition often referred to as ‘excited delirium’. This condition causes euphoria, hallucinations, hyper stimulation, anxiety, and paranoia that can lead to violence.
The drug is designed to cause the brain to flood with a hormone called dopamine, which helps to control the brain’s pleasure centers. Normally, when dopamine is released, it then goes back to its original transmitting neuron. However, flakka blocks this reuptake, causing the dopamine to stay in the brain. It is this hormonal flood that causes the feeling of intense euphoria.
Flakka can also lead to hyperthermia, which is a rapid, dangerous rise in body temperature. This rise in temperature can often stop the blood from clotting, causing internal bleeding. The use of this drug can also cause rhabdomyolisis, which is a melting of the muscle tissue leading to muscle fibers being released into the blood stream. This can severely damage the kidneys, and even result in kidney failure.
Treatment for Flakka
Not only does Flakka have serious long-term effects, but can also put users in dangerous, harmful situations even if only used once. The use of Flakka is extremely dangerous, and should be avoided at all costs. It is important to familiarize yourself with what it looks like, and it’s physiological and psychological effects, in order to protect yourselves and your loved ones from the dangers surrounding it.
If you or a loved one is addicted to Flakka and needs help now then call 866-349-1770 or contact us today to speak with a therapist immediately.