Club Drugs

Today's drug culture is heavily influenced by what are known as "club drugs." A club drug is a vague term that refers to a variety of drugs that may be used at raves and clubs. MDMA (ecstasy), GHB, Rohypnol, and Ketamine are only a few examples.

MDMA (methylenedioxy-n-methylamphetamine)

Also known as E, X, XTC, Ecstasy, Adam, Clarity, Lover's Speed, and the "love drug."
MDMA is normally taken orally in the form of a tablet or capsule, with effects that last from 3-6 hours. It increases heart rate and blood pressure. It also causes dehydration, hypertension, heart and kidney failure, seizures, impaired memory, confusion, depression, sleep problems, anxiety, paranoia, and can have lasting effects on an individual's serotonin (neurotransmitters in the brain that controls memory, moods, and emotions).

GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate)

Also known as Liquid Ecstasy, Liquid X, Grievous Bodily Harm, and Georgia Home Boy.
GHB is found in clear liquid, white powder tablet, and capsule forms with effects that last up to 4 hours. It is often used with alcohol and is commonly associated with date rape. Its effects may include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, headache, loss of consciousness, loss of reflexes, impaired breathing, coma, and even death.

Ketamine

Also known as K, Special K, Ket, Vitamin K, Kit Kat, and Cat Valium.
Ketamine is found in either a liquid form or as a white powder that is often snorted or smoked with marijuana or tobacco products. In some cases it is injected intramuscularly and its effects can last from one half hour to 2 hours. It causes impaired motor function, high blood pressure, delirium, amnesia, depression, impaired attention, and potentially fatal respiratory problems.

Rohypnol

Also known as Roofies, Roophies, Roche, R-2, Forget-me pill, and the "Date Rape Drug."
Rohypnol is typically taken orally, though it can be ground up and snorted, and doses can last from 8-12 hours. It causes decreased blood pressure, drowsiness, visual disturbances, dizziness, gastrointestinal disturbances, urinary retention, confusion, and "anterograde amnesia," meaning that individuals may not remember events they experienced while under the effects of the drug.

Other Issues Associated With Club Drugs

The side effects mentioned for each drug are not the only consequences facing those who take these drugs. In recent years, there has been an increase in reports of club drugs used to commit sexual assaults. Some club drugs are colorless, tasteless, and odorless, and individuals who want to intoxicate and sedate others can add them to beverages, without their victim's knowledge. Although these drugs are thought to relax the person who is feeling the effects of these drugs, they have proven to aggravate violence through their usage in sexual assault and through conflicts over dealership. Discussions with drug experts and with ecstasy addicts in treatment programs expose the violence that presents itself when introduced to a lifestyle of drug use.

Warning signs of club drug use

• Loss of memory
• Loss of coordination, dizziness, fainting
• Depression
• Confusion
• Sleep problems
• Chills or sweating
• Slurred speech

The truth about the "Club Drug Trend"

The substantial arrival of cases caused by club drug use in hospital emergency rooms nationwide began in 1994. Since that time, the rate has drastically increased. In 2000, hospital visits involving ecstasy has risen 58 percent (2,850 to 4,511). Club drugs are often considered "harmless" enhancements to the dance party experience with the lure of a relatively inexpensive high and an increase in stamina. This false belief has undoubtedly led to their widespread popularity among teenagers, college students, and young adults.

Their unpredictability is just as fatal as their side effects. Club drugs are illegal substances that are bought and sold without regulation. The source, chemicals, and contaminants are unknown making the toxicity, consequences, and symptoms unpredictable. People ages 25 and under account for almost one-third of all drug emergencies. This same age group accounts for an even more significant percentage of club drug emergencies, specifically, 80 percent of ecstasy emergencies and 60 percent of GHB emergencies.