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What Are the New Drugs?

Paul R Kutylo, M.Div., LCSW Mary Ellen Nash, J.D, MSW Intern

Police Social Services

1000 W. Schaumburg Road

Schaumburg, IL 80194

(847) 348-7390/(847) 348-7391

New drugs are continually being developed and marketed, Their purpose often is to treat medical conditions; but many end up being abused. Some new drugs are developed to alleviate abuse of another illicit drug; and they themselves become abused. Use of all drugs kills brain cells, sometimes enough in specific parts of the drain as to impede its function.

Ecstasy is a hallucinogen and stimulant used in the "rave" scene. Humans become dehydrated and exhausted due to dancing or exercise. Heatstroke is common, that may lead to death, abuse and brain damage. It has no legitimate medical use. Symptoms include reduced appetite, increased blood pressure, sleep problems, anxiety, depression, memory problems, drug craving, blurred vision, teeth clenching, nausea, sweating, stiffness in body.

GHB, in 1980, was a dietary supplement and sleep aid, believed to generate muscle growth. It is the date rape drug. Effects include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, visual disturbances, unconsciousness, hypnotic effects, severe respiratory depression coma, overdose, and death.

Steroids. the Anabolic type, full name "Androgenic," :a synthetic derivative of testosterone, enhances physical appearance and athletic performance. Side effects are cholesterol imbalance, impaired liver function, heart disease, strokes, testicular atrophy, impotence, breast swelling in males, male pattern baldness, irreversible masculinization in women, menstrual irregularities, and other symptoms. Abusers show increased aggression, violent episodes, paranoia. Possession and distribution is punishable by prison and fines.

Ketamine: "Special K", a club drug, used during surgeries for a 5-10 minute anesthesia. Effects include hallucinations, detached feelings, flying or floating sensations, euphoria; dizziness, slurred speech, confusion, muscle rigidity - similar to PCP. Users are unable to feel pain, and could seriously be injured

Cocaine is the most potent of the brain stimulants; nigh lasts 60 min. or so. It has limited medical: uses, and is of uncertain street purity. Crack (cracks when heated) is a powerful smokeable form of cocaine Crack is made from cocaine, water and baking soda. It is highly addictive, highs are extremely intense and euphoric, lasting 20 minutes. Users get instantly hooked. Effects include dilated pupils, euphoria, depression, paranoia, sleeplessness, delusions, hallucinations, psychosis, increased heart rate, chronic sore throat, hoarseness, heart failure, lung and throat infection, and severe weight loss.

LSD is a mind altering, aura! and visual hallucinatory drug, producing bizarre behavior; effects !ast 3-12 hrs. Users can panic if on a bad trip; they have poor perception of time and distance, psychosis, possible death, violence, bizarre behavior, nausea, anxiety, panic, synaesthesia (smell colors, see sounds). etc. LSD is fat soluble; blackouts can occur. It can remain in the body for months.
Inpatient and outpatient treatment is necessary in many cases. Also care should be taken to get medical vs. non-medical detoxing for the addict. Unfortunately, there may always be addictive, illicit drugs aid and new which can be .abused.