In 2015, health officials reported the emergence of a new designer drug that was wreaking havoc across the State of Florida and were concerned it could spread to the United States? According to reports, several addicts were running naked and screaming hysterically, bizarre behaviors triggered by the consumption of a violently dangerous substance called “flakka.” Police were concerned over the rise of similar incidents, particularly the frightening behavior exhibited by victims. In two cases, a man impaled himself on a fence while another, claiming to be hallucinating, held a gun to his head while standing on a rooftop. So what makes this particular drug so significant? Let’s take a closer look at the disturbing truth behind flakka.
What is Flakka?
A synthetic designer drug, flakka (derived from the Hispanic term for a beautiful, elegant, and charming woman) is a derivative of alpha-PVP, a manmade version of cathinone (a stimulant similar to amphetamines) and is in the same drug class as illegal bath salts. According to reports from health experts, flakka stimulate the brain to release dopamine at an alarming rate, exceeding the potency of another dangerous drug called MDMA (Molly).
Even more disturbing, individuals who consume flakka also take part in “snacking,” a process in which they consume more flakka while experiencing a “high.” This action can ultimately increase dopamine levels to a dangerous level, causing uncontrollable euphoria and psychosis. An additional symptom called “excited delirium” takes place when the body enters a state of hyperthermia and overheats at approximately 105 degrees. While experiencing all these symptoms, victims will become violent, tearing off their clothes as a result of the fever, and will exude superhuman strength. In one incident in 2012, a man who had consumed bath salts began eating another man’s face.
Typically, people consume flakka through multiple methods, making it hard to identify. Individuals can swallow, inject, snort, or vape the drug.
Health Problems
Another frightening reality of flakka is its long-term effects on the human body. If they are not ultimately killed by the violent side effects, addicts and abusers will experience rhabdomyolysis (in which muscle fibers dissolve and enter the bloodstream). Afterward, these victims will require dialysis treatment due to kidney failure.
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The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction troubles today.
