What is Flakka (The zombie drug)?
In 2016, there is a
student in Florida who stabbed a married couple and then ate the husband's
face, at that time he was high on Flakka (the zombie drug).
Last year, a viral
video of people unable to stand and acting weird on the streets of the United
States. Create a conspiracy theory that they are affected by some kind of
“zombie virus”. But it turns out, that it was drugs.
This is just one
example of the severe consequences of someone under the influence of this drug.
Flakka is a dangerous
new drug that is sweeping the United States. Most experts believe that it has
serious and potentially deadly side effects. The drug has sedative-like
symptoms – extreme sleepiness, and respiratory depression characterizes and it
can be challenging for those addicted to it. There are several ways that Flakka
affects the body, and there are a variety of treatment options available for
those addicted to it.
It is also known as
“tranq,” “tranq dope”. Similar to “bath salts”. Flakka and bath salts are
chemically similar. But there is a crucial difference between the two drugs. Bath salts are a mixture of chemical
elements such as (mephedrone, mephedrone, and methylone). On the other
hand, Flakka is made from a-PVP (commonly
called polyvidone or povidon). However, both are still considered dangerous
drugs with a high potential for abuse. They are packaged similarly and labeled
with a “not for
human consumption”
due to their dangerous nature.
Can Flakka Cause Death?
Yes Flakka can cause death. This
synthetic drug is incredibly potent and can lead to several severe health
complications.
In some cases, these complications can be fatal. For example,
Flakka has been linked to an increased heart attack and stroke risk.
The drug can also cause kidney damage, leading to kidney
failure. In rare cases, Flakka users have been known to commit suicide.
How Does Flakka Affect the Body?
Synthetic drugs have
serious and potential side effects. Flakka can cause an increase in body
temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure, as well as hallucinations,
delusions, and a loss of rational behavior. And it may lead to panic attacks,
violent aggression, and respiratory distress.
In some cases, people
who take Flakka experience “excited delirium,” (a condition characterized by hyperthermia, agitation, and
psychosis.)
This effect (excited delirium) can lead to heart attacks,
seizures, and even death. Because of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Renal failure is also a common complication of Flakka abuse.
Where
it comes from?
The
vast majority of Flakka that is sold today comes from China. The country has
become a significant producer of synthetic drugs and bath salts in recent years
It is made from a
chemical called alpha-Pyrrolidinopentiophenone (a-PVP), a synthetic version of
an African plant called khat and now.
What is khat plant?
The buds and leaves of
the khat plant (Catha edulis)
are chewed for stimulant and euphoric effects and traditionally have been used
for medicinal purposes.
Khat is a stimulant
drug, which means it speeds up the messages between the brain and the body.
Chewing khat is part of some social traditions in parts of the Middle East,
such as Saudi Arabia and Yemen, and in Eastern Africa. Khat contains cathinone
and cathine, which are chemicals that produce stimulant effects.
What does it look like?
The leaves and buds of the khat plant, are either fresh or
dried. They have a mild aroma and an astringent, faintly sweet taste. It is
also known by other names like (Qat, kat, chat, qaad)
Who
is Most Likely To Use Flakka?
Young adults are the most
common user of Flakka. Most users of this drug are between the ages of 17 and
25. And the alarming news is 1% of teenagers in the US (1 % = 3.31 million)
report having used Flakka in the past year.
The problem with this
drug is “inexpensive” and “easily accessible”, So it is making very appealing
to young people. Because of this, there has been an increase in ERs visits from
2009 to 2012 due to Flakka and other synthetic cathinone,
(As reported by the American Association of Poison Control
Centers)
The other reason Flakka
appeals to young adults is that it produces a strong sense of euphoria.
However, as a Flakka user consumes more of the drug, their body builds up a
tolerance and a higher dose is needed each time to feel the same high.
Does
Flakka Turn You Into a Zombie?
Flakka does not turn
people into zombies. However, street drugs can cause several severe side
effects that make people seem like they are not in their right mind. And naturally,
they act like a zombie.
The drug can affect the brain for short periods based on the
amount and frequency of use.
The
Treatment Options for Flakka Addiction?
The Flakka
Drug is still a relatively new drug. Because of this, there is little research
on the best way how to treat addiction.
However, there are
still some treatment options that are available. The first step in treating
Flakka's addiction is to detox from the drug (which means you will stop
using the drug and allow your body to rid itself of the toxins.).
(Withdrawal symptoms can be severe, so it is important to detox under the
care of medical professionals)
This can be done in a
medical setting where you will be monitored for complications. Once you have
detoxed from the drug, you can then begin therapy. Therapy will help you identify
any underlying issues that may have led to your addiction again.
Final Thoughts
·
If you suspect that someone you know is using flakka, it is
important to seek help. Flakka addiction can be very difficult to overcome, and
it often requires professional treatment. Encouraging your loved one to seek
help and supporting them through the recovery process can make a big difference
in their success.
In
conclusion, flakka is a dangerous drug that can have serious consequences for
both the individual and those around them. By educating ourselves and others
about the dangers of flakka, avoiding peer pressure, avoiding situations where
drugs are present, and seeking help when needed, we can reduce our risk of
coming into contact with this dangerous drug. Let us all work together to
create a safer and healthier world, free from the dangers of flakka and other
harmful drugs.
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