HLTH 237 Lecture Notes - Synthetic Cannabinoids, Head Shop, Drug Paraphernalia
29 Apr 2013
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Designer drugs include: synthetic cannabinoids, synthetic cathinones, synthetic derivatives of substances such as cocaine and ketamine. Legal to possess, easy to obtain: headshops, internet. Market as producing similar effects to illegal drugs: can have life threatening adverse effects. Head shop: retail outlet selling drug paraphernalia, sells herbs that are legal in the area, labeled not for human consumption to avoid charges from authorities, sometimes not detectable in drug screens. Catha edulis plant: occurs cathinone and cathine naturally, found in leaves of plant. Stimulants: high is similar to mdma and cocaine. Effects begin 1 hour after ingestion: lasts for 3 hours. Effects: agitation, panic attacks, tremors, insomnia, headaches, nausea, increased heart rate, dizziness, confusion, depression, psychosis, suicidal thoughts, increased risk of ulcers, kidney problems. Rhabdommyolysis: can bring out pre-existing psychotic symptoms. Withdrawl: anxiety, trembling, depression, nightmares, cravings. Onset: 10-20mins if snorted, 15-45 min if taken orally. Not under international control, still legal: labeled not for human consumption to divert legal charges.
