DESIGNER DRUGS

By changing the chemical structure of certain drugs, underground chemists have been able to create "designer drugs." They do this by slightly altering the chemical makeup of existing drugs with unpredictable and dangerous effects. Often the change in chemical formulation makes that drug technically not illegal, but similar in function to illegal drugs such as heroin, cocaine, opium, and hallucinogenic mushrooms.

Often, designer drugs are more potent than the original substances. Some can produce more toxic effects. One example is "ecstasy," a drug in the amphetamine family. This drug produces a state of confusion, followed by a rush, then a mellow, sociable feeling. But for some, it produces hallucinations and unpredictable behavior.

Designer drugs are extremely dangerous. They are variations of drugs first made in real medical labs for research purposes. Illegal drug dealers make these drugs in a makeshift lab and sell them on the streets and in schools, too.

There are many types of designer drugs available. They can be stimulants, opiates, or hallucinogenics. They have nicknames such as "china white," "ecstasy," or "rush." They may also be identified by their chemical or trade name, such as Fentanyl or Dilaudid. There is no promise of purity with these or any street drugs. They are dangerous because harmful chemicals may be added to, or used in place of, the drug they are said to contain. The person on the street buying the drug has no way of knowing what he or she is really buying.

Designer drugs are often addictive. They are generally inhaled or injected into the body. They cause a wide range of effects, such as:

euphoria
changes in behavior
slurred speech
anxiety and depression
muscle cramps
dilated pupils
sleepiness and "nodding off" and
hallucinations

Withdrawal symptoms may include drowsiness, irritability, and agitation. Unintentional overdoses are common and unpredictable. This can cause more serious effects, such as loss of consciousness, slowed breathing, or even death. It's hard to know just what, and how much, a person is getting.

For more information, call the National Council of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence at 800-NCA-CALL, or 800-622-2255. For help, consult your healthcare provider, or contact a local drug and alcohol treatment center.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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