Synthetic drugs that imitate the effects of cocaine, marijuana, and LSD are becoming easier to find. You can buy them in stores, gas stations, and on the streets. The risks associated with these synthetic drugs are significant.
Producers operate in unregulated labs, leading to questionable ingredients that pose serious dangers, especially when combined with other medications. Overdoses and deaths can happen from dangerous interactions with these substances. Many people wrongly believe they are safe because someone sells them over the counter. The rising popularity of these club drugs or designer drugs is largely because of their easy access.
If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse, the Retreat of Atlanta is here to help! Call us today or head over to our admissions page to take the first step towards healing
What Are Synthetic Drugs?
Chemists create designer substances to replicate the effects of various drugs, including cocaine, marijuana, and LSD. The dangers of these synthetic substances are still serious.
This is because the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate them. Ingredients from illicit manufacturers often bear warnings like “not fit for human consumption.” The lower cost of these artificial drugs may seem attractive. However, the risks they pose are much greater than any possible benefits.
Common Types of Synthetic Drugs
These substances are appealing because of their psychoactive effects. However, synthetic drugs can be dangerous due to their untested and unpredictable side effects. Manufactured in illegal labs and often imported from abroad, they frequently carry enticing names. Common types of synthetic drugs available today include:
- Spice/K2: These simulate cannabinoids and can be up to 100 times more potent than natural marijuana.
- Bath Salts: These synthetic drugs can greatly affect heart rate and blood pressure. Their effects are similar to snorting several lines of cocaine at once.
- Flakka/Gravel: Known for its hallucinogenic properties, even a small amount can have dire consequences.
- Smiles/NBOMes: Hallucinogenic substances similar to LSD.
- Tryptamines: Including DMT and AMT, these produce intense hallucinations.
- Molly/MDMA: A mind-altering stimulant often adulterated with unknown chemicals.
Effects of Synthetic Drugs
Synthetic drugs can disrupt brain function, affecting mood, cognitive abilities, impulse control, and pleasure. These substances may distort the senses and lead to hallucinations and psychotic episodes.
Increased norepinephrine levels from substances like Flakka or bath salts can result in:
- Elevated heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Increased body temperature
- Decreased need for sleep and food
- Heightened energy and excitability
Conversely, substances like Spice may function as depressants, leading to:
- Slowed heart rate and blood pressure
- Enhanced feelings of relaxation and euphoria
Dangers of Synthetic Drugs
The dangers associated with synthetic drugs are intensified by the presence of unknown chemicals. This unpredictability raises the likelihood of fatal combinations. Dangerous effects can include:
- Erratic and violent behavior
- Suicidal thoughts and self-harm
- Psychotic episodes
- Heart attacks and seizures
- Damage to internal organs and the brain
Are Synthetic Drugs Addictive?
Many people believe that synthetic drugs are safe and non-addictive because they can legally purchase them. However, these substances are extremely addictive and often more dangerous than their natural versions. This creates a false sense of security that makes them even riskier.
Treatment Options for Synthetic Drug Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with synthetic drug addiction, seeking treatment is crucial. Effective treatment options include:
- Medically Supervised Detox: Because synthetic drugs can have unknown ingredients, professional detox is important. It helps manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
- Inpatient Programs: Comprehensive inpatient care provides 24/7 support and structured treatment for severe cases.
- Therapeutic Approaches: Individual, group, and family therapy are vital components of recovery, helping to address underlying issues and promote long-term sobriety.
Finding Treatment for Synthetic Drug Addiction at Retreat of Atlanta
If you or someone you care about is dealing with addiction to synthetic drugs, the Retreat of Atlanta can help. They provide a complete plan for recovery. Treatment typically begins with a professional detox program tailored to your needs. The detoxification process can be complicated due to the unknown chemical compounds involved, making continuous monitoring by our experienced medical staff crucial.
At the Retreat of Atlanta, we offer a safe place for clients to detox. Here, they get the support they need for a successful recovery.
After detox, we provide traditional therapies during residential treatment. These include individual, group, and family counseling. Our goal is to help rebuild lives and support lasting recovery.
Get Help for Synthetic Drug Addiction in Atlanta, GA
The risks associated with synthetic drugs are extreme. Understanding synthetic drug addiction is crucial for making timely decisions about seeking help and detoxification. Overdose and death are real possibilities linked to these substances.
Call us or visit our admissions page at the Retreat of Atlanta today. Our dedicated team is ready to assist you. We offer a detox program that helps you take the first step on your journey to recovery, where a healthier and more fulfilling life is waiting for you.