What Are The Different Types of Designer Drugs and Are They Addictive

Designer drugs are synthetic illegal drugs produced by underground chemists and sold on the streets. They are called ‘designer drugs’ because certain changes have been made to their pre-existing chemical structures. Basically these drugs are specifically ‘designed’ or altered. Many of these drugs are now commonly used by young people and adults between the ages of 21-30. Designer drugs are also known as “club drugs,” as they are frequently available at clubs and dance parties.

These drugs mostly have dangerous and unpredictable side effects. They are technically not illegal by chemical formulation, but they produce the same effects of illegal drugs like heroin, cocaine, opium, and hallucinogenic mushrooms. Often these designer drugs are more potent than the original substances, and are also more toxic.

Take the example of "ecstasy," a drug from the amphetamine family. Ecstasy has been ‘designed’ to produce a state of confusion, followed by a rush and then a calm, sociable feeling. In some people, however ecstasy produces hallucinations and unpredictable behavior. Drugs like ecstasy can damage the brain cells and are very potent.

Initially these designer drugs were made by medical labs for research purposes. However, soon after, illegal drug dealers began to make these drugs in makeshift labs and sell them on the streets. There are many types of designer drugs available. They can be classified as; stimulants, opiates and hallucinogenic's. They have names such as MDA, MPPP, or PFF, or nicknames such as ‘ecstasy’, ‘china white’ or ‘rush’. They may also be known by their chemical names, such as Meperidine, Fentanyl, or Dilaudid. As most of these drugs are produced by illegal drug manufactures there is no guarantee on its purity.

Most designer drugs are extremely addictive and many young people do not realize this. It is also impossible to know exactly what chemicals are used to manufacture them, and in combination with other drugs or alcohol can have dangerous consequences.

Most of these drugs are inhaled, injected, or taken orally as a tablet.

Some Common ‘Designer Drugs’ Include;

• Crystal Meth also known as jib, crank, speed or meth – This drug is commonly used in clubs and on the rave scene for producing a high-energy rush.
• Ecstasy also known as X, E, XTC, Adam, and MDMA – Ecstasy is a popular drug that produces a feelings of general well-being and emotional closeness.
• Gamma hydroxybutyrate also known as GHB or G – This drug causes relaxation and sleep. It makes people feel like everything is okay. It is sometimes described as a cross between alcohol and ecstasy.
• Ketamine also known as K, ket, special K, vitamin K or cat valium – Ketamine is a general anesthetic used in veterinary medicine. It is a strong pain reliever known to produce an ‘out-of-body’ experience.

Most of These Drugs Cause a Wide Range of Effects, Such As;

• Euphoria
• Changes in behavior
• Slurred speech
• Anxiety and depression
• Muscle cramps
• Dilated pupils
• Sleepiness and
• Hallucinations

Withdrawal symptoms include drowsiness, irritability, and agitation. Often unintentional overdoses are common and can cause more serious problems, such as loss of consciousness, slowed breathing, or even death.

When you take these designer drugs, you assume certain risk, which include;

• Death
• Addiction
• Criminal charges and prison terms
• Heart and breathing failure
• Blood vessel damage and stroke
• Raised or lowered pulse or blood pressure
• Aggressive or suicidal behavior
• Jaw clenching and teeth grinding
• Nausea and vomiting
• Muscle cramping or seizures
• Panic attacks or feeling paranoid
• Overheating and dehydration
• Blackouts or passing out