Did you know that you could walk into almost any locally owned drug store or gas station and find dangerous synthetic drugs for sale on the countertops? Some of them are even behind glass and are not easily identifiable as ingestible substances. They may be called potpourri, bath salts, incense, and even marketed as vitamins ‘proven’ to help in the bedroom.
So, what actually are synthetic drugs and what do they do to your body? How can you tell if your loved one is taking these synthetic drugs? How do you identify these drugs on the shelves to warn others about them in the future?
What Are Synthetic Drugs?
Synthetic drugs are much like methamphetamine as they are made with dangerous chemicals by man, and, while easily available to anyone, are not moderated by trusted professionals interested in keeping people safe. Some of these drugs are made in other countries by scientists with easier access to such poisonous chemicals.
Many times these illegal chemicals are changed slightly to appear as if it is a new chemical or a different one and labeled as “not for consumption” to trick the government into allowing the products into the United States.
These drugs may also go by many names and are packaged in so many different ways that an overloaded DTF and FDA have problems tracking down every substance that comes our way.
Examples Of Synthetic Drugs:
- Molly
- Ecstasy
- Bath salts
- Spice/k2 (synthetic marijuana)
- Fentanyl (a synthetic opioid)
- Synthetic LSD/PCP
How Are They Dangerous?
The main problem with synthetic drugs is that you never know what chemicals are truly in these substances and so you don’t know what you are ingesting. Allergic reactions, overdoses, and extreme behaviors have led to serious hospitalizations, murder charges, and even death.
Unfortunately, synthetic drugs are made specifically to be much more powerful and addictive than other Schedule I substances, and many times, the deadly ingredients will change periodically to keep the customers interested and addicted. The chemical makeup of the substance is always different and appearances can be deceiving.
For example, synthetic marijuana only resembles marijuana in looks and usage but a person who is addicted to the substance suffers from much different side effects than those who smoke real marijuana.
Dangerous Side Effects Of Synthetic Drugs:
It isn’t as difficult to tell if a person is using designer drugs because they cause such dramatic changes in a person’s thoughts and demeanor. Occasionally, a person will speak openly about using some of these drugs because there isn’t as much of a stigma as with other drugs.
- Severe agitation
- Disturbing hallucinations
- Extreme paranoia
- Cardiac problems
- Kidney damage
- Psychosis
- Suicidal tendencies and actions
- Permanent brain damage
- Death
These drugs are described as fun and safe through word-of-mouth and many people believe that ingesting them is okay because they are legal. Addiction can be really easy to find, especially when you are unaware that you are already on the path. There is help for everyone.
How Can We Help You And Your Loved Ones?
High-quality, individualized care is available and psychological treatment is essential to address the initial problems behind the addiction, as well as the addiction itself.
First Steps Recovery, in beautiful Fresno, is a premier addiction treatment facility that uses and improves upon evidenced-based practices and valued care on a daily basis. We are ready to attack the problem of designer drugs in our community and improve the lives of whoever chooses to join us.
Contact us at 844-489-0836 to discuss your treatment options. Your long-term recovery can begin with our work together as you attain self-sufficient and sustainable results. There is help for you and we are ready for your call.
