Synthetic drugs are gaining popularity because they may be cheaper or more easily accessible than illegal substances. Manufacturers are developing new synthetic drugs quickly, making them more widely available as time goes on.

Some people may assume that these synthetic drugs may be safer because they are new. However, many have the potential for serious complications, including overdose and addiction.

Flakka is a popular “designer drug” with the potential for severe, dangerous effects. This article will explore the potential risks of flakka use and where to seek treatment. You will learn:

  • The side effects and dangers of flakka use
  • How to recognize the signs of a flakka overdose
  • The potential for flakka addiction
  • Where to find substance abuse treatment and recovery support

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the First Step Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Flakka?

Flakka drug belongs to a class of chemicals called synthetic cathinones. People make it from a chemical called alpha PVP, which is a synthetic version of a plant called khat.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies flakka as a Schedule I drug. This means it has no medical purposes and a high risk of abuse and addiction. It is illegal to make, buy, sell, or possess flakka in the United States.

Flakka is similar to a drug known as “bath salts.” It may look like colorful pebbles and is typically pink or white. People may call flakka “gravel” because of its appearance. People may eat, vaporize, snort, or inject flakka.

Flakka is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant. People may use it as a party drug because of its intense stimulant and euphoric effects. However, flakka abuse can trigger dangerous side effects. People may also overdose on this dangerous drug.

Side Effects and Risks of Flakka

Flakka is a potent CNS stimulant that has effects similar to methamphetamine or cocaine. Common flakka side effects include delusions, paranoid psychosis, extreme agitation, and aggression. People may also experience:

  • Euphoria
  • Increased sex drive
  • Elevated blood pressure and heart rate
  • Hallucinations
  • Delirium
  • Panic attacks
  • Aggressive behaviors
  • Elevated body temperature

People may exhibit dangerous or odd behaviors while using flakka. In some cases, people may exhibit excessive strength while high on flakka, which can put others at risk.

People who abuse flakka may experience intense or disturbing hallucinations or delusional thinking. There are documented incidents of people harming or killing others or themselves while using flakka.

Flakka abuse can also lead to long-term complications, including:

  • Kidney failure
  • Liver damage
  • Heart attack
  • Brain damage

If you or a loved one uses flakka, seek treatment right away. Flakka abuse has the potential for life-threatening short and long-term complications. Get the help you need at First Step Behavioral Health.

Recognizing Flakka Overdose

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), flakka is gaining popularity across the United States. Flakka abuse can be dangerous in any amount. No amount of flakka is safe for human consumption.

Taking large doses of flakka may cause a life-threatening overdose. Signs of an overdose include:

  • Aggressive or violent behaviors
  • “Superhuman” strength
  • Bizzare behaviors
  • Excessive sweating from increased body temperature
  • Inability to feel pain
  • Extreme paranoia
  • Changes in speech patterns
  • Hallucinations

It can be difficult to determine when a flakka overdose has occurred. If you believe you or someone else is experiencing an overdose, call 911 immediately. Wait with the person until help arrives.

The only way to prevent a flakka overdose is to avoid using it. If you or someone you love needs help to stop using flakka or another addictive substance, you are not alone. Find the treatment and support you need at First Step Behavioral Health.

Recognizing the Signs of Addiction

The effects of flakka may last for several hours. This potent drug can cause intense effects in just small doses. People may use frequent doses to maintain their “high.” This behavior can increase the risk of developing addiction.

People who use flakka frequently may develop symptoms of addiction, including:

People who develop symptoms of flakka addiction must seek treatment as quickly as possible. Early, comprehensive treatment can help people prevent worsening complications and dangers of flakka abuse.

Find Substance Abuse Treatment Now

Flakka abuse can be dangerous–and even life-threatening. If you or someone you love struggles with flakka abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find the comprehensive, compassionate treatment you need to stop using it at First Step Behavioral Health.

Contact our intake specialists to learn more about the programs we offer. Get assistance verifying your insurance or schedule your first appointment by reaching out today.

References:

  1. United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Flakka (alpha-PVP)
  2. National Institute of Health (NIH): Flakka-Induced Prolonged Psychosis
  3. The Saudi Journal of Forensic Medicine and Sciences: Flakka: “The Zombie Drug” A Medicolegal Concern: An Updated Review of α-Pyrrolidinopentiophenone

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