The Dangers of Flakka: Understanding Its Risks

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Flakka is one of the most dangerous street drugs and is indeed worse than cocaine. Known as alpha-PVP, this powerful synthetic cathinone leads to bizarre behaviors, severe health complications, and even death. In the following paragraphs, we will explore what flakka is, its devastating effects, and how to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with flakka abuse.

What Exactly is Flakka and Why Is It So Dangerous?

Flakka is classified as a synthetic cathinone, specifically alpha-pyrrolidinopentiophenone (α-PVP). It belongs to the same chemical family as "bath salts" and works by blocking the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, producing effects similar to amphetamines. Dopamine is known as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, playing a significant role in addiction. Flakka usually appears as a white or pink crystal substance, often referred to as "gravel" in street language.

Flakka is exceptionally potent; scientific research estimates that it is at least ten times more powerful than cocaine. This extreme strength makes dosing unpredictable and significantly increases the risk of overdose. Even minuscule amounts can provoke severe reactions. Users often don’t know what they are taking or its strength. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has classified flakka as a Schedule I controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and lack of accepted medical use.

How Does Flakka Relate to Bath Salts?

Flakka and bath salts share similar chemical properties as they are both synthetic derivatives of cathinones. Cathinone is a naturally occurring stimulant found in the khat plant, which has been used for centuries in Africa and the Middle East.

Synthetic cathinones like flakka emerged on the illicit market around 2010. Initially marketed as "bath salts," "plant food," or "phone screen cleaner," these drugs often had labels stating "not for human consumption" to bypass existing drug laws. Bath salts usually contain MDPV or mephedrone, while flakka (alpha-PVP) is a second-generation version.

By mid-2015, α-PVP had already caused 105 fatal intoxications in Europe alone. This statistic highlights how quickly flakka spread globally. The chemical similarity between flakka and bath salts means they have many shared risks, raising public health concerns.

Where Did Flakka Come From?

Although flakka became known to the public in South Florida around 2014-2015, its origins are much older. The compound alpha-PVP was first patented in 1967, but it never entered the market as a medication. It remained obscure until underground chemists rediscovered it decades later.

The natural precursor cathinone comes from the khat plant, used for centuries. Synthetic cathinones like mephedrone were synthesized in the 1920s but were largely forgotten until the rise of designer drugs in the 2000s.

The recent popularity of synthetic cathinones such as flakka can be attributed to chemists finding legal loopholes. They created new compounds that mimic illegal drugs while technically remaining different chemicals. Flakka gained traction because it is inexpensive and readily available online or in convenience stores prior to its ban.

Why Do People Use Flakka Despite Its Risks?

Even with known dangers, people continue to use flakka for various reasons.

Cost and Accessibility

One significant factor is cost. Flakka often sells for much less than other stimulant drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine, making it more accessible. Scientific research states that flakka became popular partly due to its "simple preparation and low price."

Initial Effects

Users are frequently drawn in by the promising intense effects. Flakka induces a surge of dopamine and norepinephrine, resulting in powerful but dangerous feelings of energy and euphoria.

Misleading Sales

Many individuals who try flakka do not fully grasp its risks or potency. It may be sold under misleading names, causing users to be unaware of what they are actually consuming. In some cases, users looking for other stimulants may unknowingly buy flakka instead. Once flakka addiction takes hold, cravings and withdrawal symptoms often drive continued use, overshadowing rational decision-making.

Understanding Flakka Addiction

Flakka addiction can sneak up on users. As the drug takes hold, it leads to a cycle of dependence where stopping becomes increasingly difficult.

How Is Flakka Typically Used?

Flakka can be consumed in several ways, each affecting the onset time and intensity of effects:

• Snorting

• Injecting

• Smoking or Vaping

• Swallowing

  
  

Smoking or vaporizing flakka has become common, especially with e-cigarette devices. This method allows the drug to enter the bloodstream rapidly, increasing the risk of overdose because the drug reaches the brain quickly in concentrated amounts.

Injection presents similar hazards. It leads to rapid onset and overdose risks but also introduces extra dangers like infection and vein damage from needle use. Snorting or swallowing flakka results in somewhat slower effects, but they remain powerful and dangerous. In any case, flakka hits the bloodstream and crosses the blood-brain barrier swiftly, creating its potent impacts on the central nervous system.

What Immediate Effects Does Flakka Have?

Flakka produces effects resembling those of cocaine but significantly more intense. The immediate impacts on both the body and mind can be severe and hazardous.

Physical Effects

Users may experience:

• Elevated body temperature (hyperthermia)

• Extreme agitation

• Rapid heart rate

• High blood pressure

• Excessive sweating

  
  

Due to feeling overly hot, users may strip off their clothing. A dangerous condition called "excited delirium" can develop, marked by overwhelming physical strength and agitation, sometimes leading to organ failure.

Psychological Effects

Psychologically, flakka can induce feelings of euphoria that quickly devolve into paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions, often resulting in violent behavior or self-harm. For instance, back in 2016, there was a notable news report about an individual high on flakka who exhibited violent behavior. Scientific studies have documented similar cases, showcasing the bizarre behaviors that flakka can elicit.

What Are the Frightening Symptoms of Flakka Use?

Recognizing the signs of flakka use is critical for early intervention. Symptoms can be alarming and may require emergency medical attention.

Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms include:

• Excessive sweating

• High body temperature (often above 105°F)

• Rapid pulse

• Increased strength and dilated pupils

  
  

These clinical signs can mirror those of methamphetamine, making diagnosis challenging. However, extended urine drug tests may show negative results for methamphetamine, and standard tests do not typically identify flakka.

Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms

Behavioral symptoms include:

• Extreme agitation

• Paranoia

• Hallucinations

• Confused speech

• Unpredictable or violent behavior

  
  

Scientific studies indicate that flakka may incite "terrible delusions, paranoid psychosis, and extreme agitation." In severe situations, users may experience "excited delirium," a critical state where extreme agitation and overheating can result in cardiac arrest without immediate treatment.

Is Flakka More Dangerous Than Cocaine?

Flakka presents effects that are similar to other stimulants, such as cocaine or methamphetamine. However, it is more potent and unpredictable, making it considerably more dangerous than these traditional substances.

Flakka acts by inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine but has limited serotonin impact. This leads to intense yet unbalanced stimulation. While cocaine effects typically last 15-30 minutes, flakka can extend for hours, creating severe psychotic symptoms and agitation more intensely than cocaine use. Recovery from flakka-induced psychosis may take days or even weeks, necessitating hospitalization in some instances.

The unpredictable nature of street flakka compounds its dangers. Its extreme potency, lengthy effects, severe psychiatric symptoms, and uncertain composition all culminate to elevate flakka's immediate risk profile compared to cocaine.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Flakka Abuse?

Research on the long-term effects of flakka continues to evolve, but emerging evidence suggests that chronic use can cause lasting physical and mental damage.

Physical Consequences

Long-term flakka use could lead to:

• Cardiovascular damage, including heart deterioration and heightened heart attack or stroke risk.

• Chronic organ dysfunction resulting from strain on the kidneys and liver.

• Neurological damage linked to hyperthermia episodes and oxygen deprivation risks.

  
  

Studies have noted that α-PVP can cause direct myotoxicity in susceptible users.

Mental Health Consequences

The mental health ramifications may be even more severe. Persistent psychosis could emerge, with some users not recovering their normal cognitive functioning. Ongoing memory issues, cognitive impairments, and mood disorders can persist even after cessation. Chronic anxiety and paranoia may become lifelong struggles, making recovery without proper help much more challenging.

Can Someone Recover From Flakka Addiction?

Yes, recovery from flakka addiction is achievable, though it poses unique challenges. A comprehensive approach is vital for successful treatment.

Medical Detoxification

Medical detoxification is essential as the first step. This process should be supervised by healthcare professionals experienced in managing withdrawal and any medical issues. Hospitalization may be necessary, especially for those experiencing severe symptoms.

Ongoing Treatment

Once detoxification is complete, residential or intensive outpatient programs offer support during early recovery. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has shown effectiveness in treating stimulant use disorders, addressing underlying issues and equipping individuals with coping strategies for cravings and triggers. Support groups can also provide a community and accountability, crucial for sustained recovery.

If you're seeking help, resources such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) can provide information about local treatment facilities and community organizations focused on recovery.

What Should I Do If Someone I Know Is Using Flakka?

Take immediate action if you know someone using flakka. The drug's severe effects necessitate both urgency and caution.

Emergencies

In situations like acute agitation, psychosis, or overdose, call 911 immediately. First responders can deliver proper medical intervention, crucial for saving lives. Verify the substance involved for effective treatment.

Approaching the User

When addressing someone about their flakka use, choose a calm moment when they are sober. Express your concern without judgment, highlighting specific behaviors instead of making accusations. Offer assistance in finding treatment resources rather than demanding they stop using.

Connect with Professionals

Always involve professionals. Link them to addiction specialists familiar with synthetic cathinones like flakka. The National Institute on Drug Abuse website is a valuable resource for evidence-based information about treatment options. Remember, recovery requires professional guidance; your role is to facilitate that connection, not provide treatment.

Key Points to Remember About Flakka

• Flakka (α-PVP) is a synthetic cathinone, at least ten times stronger than cocaine, leading to overdose risks.

• It appears as white or pink crystals (often called "gravel") and can be consumed in various ways.

• Flakka is often referred to as bath salts.

• Users may mix flakka with other drugs, increasing dangers.

• Flakka causes significant physical symptoms (hyperthermia, tachycardia, hypertension) and serious psychological effects (paranoia, hallucinations, and aggression).

• Flakka and bath salts are chemically related; both derive from cathinone found in the khat plant.

• Users may experience "excited delirium," a condition marked by dangerous agitation and erratic behavior.

• Flakka effects range from euphoria to alarming symptoms rapidly.

• Effective treatment requires medical detoxification and comprehensive addiction support, including therapy.

• In emergencies related to flakka, call 911, as conditions can be life-threatening.

• Long-term use may result in cardiovascular damage, persistent psychosis, and cognitive impairments.

• Start the recovery journey from flakka addiction quickly with the right professional help, like that found through SAMHSA's National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP).

  
  

Patocka, J., et al. (2020). Flakka: New dangerous synthetic cathinone on the drug scene. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(21), 7943. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21217943

About the Author

Harold Pierre, MD, is a board-certified anesthesiologist and addiction medicine specialist with over 26 years of experience. He is licensed in multiple states, including Florida, Texas, and Arizona. You can schedule an appointment to discuss your health needs by calling or texting 918-518-1636. Connect with me on LinkedIn.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified health provider regarding your health or a medical condition.

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