Have You Heard of the Stimulant Drug Mephedrone?
Have You Heard of the Stimulant Drug Mephedrone?
Mephedrone is a drug that has increased in popularity over recent years. At one time, it was not a common street drug but is an imminent threat today. The stimulant drug Mephedrone is a Schedule I controlled substance, similar to amphetamines. Popular amphetamines include ecstasy and speed.
This drug goes by many names in the streets. Popular nicknames are meph, m-cat, meow meow, plant food, drone, and bubbles. Even though Mephedrone is more popular all over the world, it is highly prevalent in Europe – more particularly in the United Kingdom.
Overview of Mephedrone
Mephedrone is a relatively new substance, and it is considered to be a “designer drug.” At one point, it was a perfectly legal recreational drug, but as of 2010 in Europe, it gained a “Class B” drug classification. It is currently controllable by laws in similarity to the Federal Analog Act in countries such as the USA, New Zealand, and Australia.
Mephedrone typically comes in either capsule or powder forms. Obviously, the capsule is to be swallowed orally while the powder is to be snorted. Also, the drug is commonly either white or yellow in color.
Effects of the Stimulant Drug Mephedrone
- Euphoria
- Excitement
- Alertness
- Increased libido
- Restlessness
Many users have also reported feeling exceptionally confident, alert, and talkative while under the influence of Mephedrone. In fact, its effects are a mix of those experienced with cocaine and ecstasy. Plus, the effects of the drug typically last for around an hour before the user begins to “come down” from the high.
The side effects of consuming Mephedrone include excessive sweating, heart palpitations, headaches, nausea, and blue/cold fingers. Additionally, side effects reported from non-surveyed individuals include panic attacks, paranoia, and hallucinations.
- Vomiting
- Damage to the heart and circulatory system
- Insomnia
- Teeth grinding
- Short-term memory loss
- Nosebleeds
- Blood clots
- Ulcers
- Vein/artery damage
- Gangrene
Because the drug has not been around for very long, there isn’t much research available that can indicate what the long terms effects of extended Mephedrone use are.
Symptoms of Mephedrone Addiction
Because the stimulant drug Mephedrone is a relatively new substance to the drug scene, research is unavailable to actually prove that the drug is addictive. However, users report that they are compelled to take another dose after the existing effects wear off. Additionally, some people have reported that it was incredibly easy to take more than what they originally intended to. Many also reported that it was hard to stop after they began taking the drug. However, other than basic surveys, not much evidence exists to prove that Mephedrone is indeed addictive.
Seeking Inpatient Therapy
Due to the fact that there is a lack of research into how addictive the drug is and the fact that Mephedrone is capable of producing such horrific effects on the body, it’s a good idea to seek inpatient treatment as soon as possible if you or someone you know is using the drug.
Inpatient treatment is an intensive form of care that provides drug-addicted patients with close supervision throughout their recovery process. The benefits are more than enough reason to consider it as a recovery option. Firstly, inpatient treatment allows addicts to heal alongside other addicts that are struggling with the same problem; providing all patients with a support group and a sense of community. Inpatient treatment also puts evidence-based methods to use for helping users steer away from their drugs of choice and unearth the underlying causes of their addiction.
- Group and Individual Counseling
- Life Skills Training
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Music and Art Therapy
- Exercise and Fitness Routines
- Relaxation Techniques
- Sober Living
- Aftercare
Of course, this is merely a partial listing of the activities and classes available in an inpatient facility. The purpose of these carefully selected options is to eliminate the addiction, restore self-esteem, and provide the skills needed to help a person adjust to life as a sober person.
In most cases, inpatient treatment is the only legitimate shot at beating addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with the use of the stimulant drug Mephedrone, don’t hesitate to research inpatient treatment and begin considering the options.
- en.wikipedia.org – Mephedrone
