Molly, ecstasy, cocaine, and meth are some of the most dangerous drugs in America today. Lawmakers, police, social workers, and parents are extremely concerned about their increased use… but there’s a new drug on the street that’s even more terrifying.
Flakka use is on the rise in many states
Flakka, a designer drug known as “gravel” because it looks like the pebbles people use in their home aquariums, has been popping up in various states across the country, including Florida, Ohio, and Texas. The US Food and Drug Administration (DEA) reported that after having no reported cases in 2010, there have been 85 cases in 2012, and 670 in 2014. 2015 statistics aren’t available yet, but if this trend continues, flakka will likely be on everyone’s radar within a couple of months.
This synthetic street drug is even worse than bath salts
Flakka is made from a chemical compound called alpha-PVP, which is a chemical cousin of cathinone, an amphetamine-like drug that’s found in bath salts. It can be snorted, smoked, injected, and swallowed. After using bath salt as a drug became widespread a few years ago, the active ingredient in it was officially banned by the federal government in 2011. Unfortunately, however, alpha-PVP wasn’t banned.
Side effects of flakka can be extreme, even deadly
Since it’s such a new drug, no one is sure how addictive it is or exactly how it affects people, but it’s probably similar to cocaine and amphetamines, which are highly addictive, both physically and psychologically. Alpha-PVP is a synthetically-derived stimulant that gives people feelings of euphoria and lots of energy, but then when the effects wear off, it leaves people lethargic and depressed. It’s possible that it alters the brain chemistry so that people require a larger dose to get the same high each time they use it (just like cocaine and meth). Those who use flakka excessively may develop extreme anxiety, paranoia, hallucinations, and even violent behavior.
“Excited Delirium” can last days
The effects of the drug can last from 3–4 hours to even a few days. This prolonged effect is frequently referred to as “excited delirium,” and it occurs because of the chemical reactions flakka causes in the body’s cells. During excited delirium, body temperature increases to as much as 105–106 degrees Fahrenheit, which could lead to kidney damage and even complete failure. During this state, people often feel a surge of desire to be violent, a sense of superhuman strength, and a loss of awareness of reality.
Increased use nationwide has everyone worried
Flakka use is increasing, likely because people aren’t aware of its potentially life-threatening effects, and also because it can be acquired very cheaply. Flakka can cost as little as $5 per dose and it’s relatively easy to buy in bulk. Flakka often originates from China, Pakistan, and India, and then repackaged into capsules or made available for vaping. It can easily be combined with other drugs such as heroin and cocaine, so those who use flakka often don’t even know what they’re getting into.
Arrested for flakka?
The side effects of using flakka can be extremely detrimental—even deadly. If you or someone you know is struggling with a flakka addiction and has been arrested, be sure to contact the best law firm in Southern California, Chambers Law Firm, at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com.
