What Are Synthetic Drugs?

Synthetic drugs, often referred to as designer drugs, are chemical compounds that are produced in laboratories. These substances are designed to mimic the effects of drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, and morphine. Some synthetic drugs, such as synthetic marijuana, are created to bypass laws and regulations prohibiting particular controlled substances. However, many synthetic drugs are produced in illegal labs across the world to mirror naturally occurring substances. Regardless of how they are produced, most of the ingredients and strength of synthetic substances is largely unknown, and therefore, this growing trend is becoming increasingly more deadly. Restore Treatment Center offers several forms of rehabilitation services for people who need help overcoming synthetic drug addiction. If someone you know is abusing synthetic drugs or is in need of quality rehab detox treatment, call Restore Drug Rehab LA at (888) 979-4570 to speak with one of our specialists.

Types of Synthetic Drugs

• Spice and K2 – These are the two of the most common street names for synthetic marijuana. It often appears as dry leaves and is advertised as legal, but it is far from safe. The silver bags full of spice can be found at some gas stations and most smoking shops.

• Molly – The synthetic version of ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is popular at music festivals and nightclubs. A variety of unknown chemical compounds is used to create the substance, making consumption of it incredibly risky.

• Krokodil – Also known as desomorphine, Krokodil is a derivative of codeine. The effects of this highly addictive drug are similar to heroin. Yet, it is often mixed with dangerous substances, such as paint thinner, hydrochloric acid, iodine, and gasoline, making it much more lethal than heroin itself.

• Synthetic Cocaine – This easily accessible substance can be found online in most countries under misleading names, such as “plant food” and “research chemicals.” Some street names for the drug include Amplified, Mint Mania, and Mind Melt.

• Bath Salts – These synthetic stimulants cause vivid hallucinations, similar to LSD. They are often sold in capsule form and look very similar to actual bath salts. Bath salts have been known to cause psychotic, aggressive behavior.

• Flakka – Otherwise known as the “zombie drug,” Flakka typically derives from a synthetic, amphetamine-like stimulant. This drug causes people to display bizarre, uncontrollable, and sometimes aggressive behavior, and has a high propensity for addiction for those who abuse it.

• Synthetic Psychedelics – “N-bomb” or “Smiles” are common names for the synthetic forms of LSD. The effects of a small amount of these powerful hallucinogens can last longer than 12 hours.

• Synthetic Opioids – Synthetic versions of fentanyl and ketamine are widely available on the street. These potent substances are sometimes referred to as Vitamin K and can have even more severe side effects than the opioids they are derivatives of.

Why Seek Treatment For Synthetic Drug Addiction?

Short and long-term synthetic drug abuse can have severe and lasting side-effects. Some examples of these effects include excessive sweating, mood swings, high energy levels, insomnia, paranoia, rapid heartbeat, kidney failure, dehydration and issues with blood circulation. In addition to these side effects, those who abuse synthetic drugs often harm themselves and people in their surroundings. It is vital for people who engage in the abuse of synthetic drugs, or who have become dependent on these dangerous substances, to turn to the professionals at Restore Drug Rehab for help.