Synthetic drugs are chemical substances artificially designed to replicate the effects of natural drugs, with the difference that their composition and addictive power can be significantly different. These compounds have become popular in recent years due to their easy access on the illegal market and the false perception that they are less dangerous than traditional drugs. In this article, we will explore the main types of synthetic drugs, their effects on the body and their distinctive characteristics.
Types of synthetic drugs
1. Synthetic amphetamines
Synthetic amphetamines, also known as "speed" or "methamphetamines", are central nervous system stimulants that increase the release of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These drugs come in pill, powder, or crystal form, and their use can cause euphoria, increased energy, insomnia, loss of appetite, and tachycardia. In the long term, the abusive use of synthetic amphetamines can cause psychotic disorders, paranoia and irreversible brain damage.
2. MDMA (ecstasy)
MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, is a synthetic drug with psychoactive properties that produces feelings of empathy, energy and pleasure. It is consumed in the form of pills or powder, and its consumption can cause dehydration, hyperthermia, increased blood pressure and tachycardia. In the long term, MDMA use can cause damage to the central nervous system, sleep disorders and depression.
3. LSD (lysergic acid)
LSD is a synthetic psychedelic drug that alters an individual's perception, mood, and consciousness. It is consumed in the form of small squares of paper impregnated with the substance, and its consumption can cause hallucinations, dilation of the pupils, tachycardia and anxiety. In the long term, LSD use can trigger anxiety disorders, depression and psychosis.
4. Ketamine
Ketamine is a synthetic drug with anesthetic and hallucinogenic properties that is used in veterinary medicine and, illegally, as a recreational drug. It comes in powder or liquid form, and its consumption can cause sedation, difficulty moving, hallucinations, and amnesia. In the long term, ketamine use can cause memory damage, sleep disorders, and bladder disorders.
Effects of synthetic drugs on the body
Synthetic drugs can have diverse effects on the body due to their chemical composition and the way they interact with the central nervous system. Some of the most common effects of synthetic drugs include:
1. Euphoria
Synthetic drugs can cause an intense feeling of euphoria and well-being, which can lead the individual to repeatedly seek that pleasurable experience.
2. Alterations in perception
Some synthetic drugs, such as LSD, can alter sensory perception and cause visual and auditory hallucinations, which can result in intense and, in some cases, disturbing experiences.
3. Increased energy
Synthetic stimulants, such as amphetamines, can increase an individual's energy and alertness, which can lead to a state of hyperactivity and excessive energy consumption.
4. Adverse effects
The consumption of synthetic drugs can cause adverse effects in the body, such as tachycardia, hypertension, dehydration, insomnia, nausea, vomiting and seizures, which can put the health and life of the individual at risk.
Distinctive characteristics of synthetic drugs
Synthetic drugs have some distinctive characteristics that make them different from natural drugs, including:
1 . Production in clandestine laboratories
Synthetic drugs are produced in clandestine laboratories using chemicals and complex synthesis processes, which increases the risk of contamination and toxicity of the final products.
2 . Variability in composition
Due to their artificial nature, synthetic drugs can have a variable and unknown chemical composition, making it difficult to predict their effects on the body and increasing the risk of overdose and adverse effects.
p>
3. Greater potency and addiction
Synthetic drugs are usually more powerful and addictive than natural drugs, which can lead to a rapid development of tolerance and dependence in users, making it difficult to stop and increasing the risk of side effects. serious adverse events.
4. False perception of security
Due to their appearance and presentation in the illegal market, synthetic drugs can be perceived as less dangerous than natural drugs, leading to indiscriminate use and ignorance of the real risks. for health.
In summary, synthetic drugs represent a significant challenge for public health due to their easy access, their potency and their ability to generate addiction. It is essential to raise awareness among the population about the risks associated with the consumption of these substances and promote prevention, treatment and rehabilitation strategies for those who are affected by their use. Continued research in the field of psychopharmacology and clinical psychology is essential to better understand the effects of synthetic drugs on the body and to develop effective interventions to address this health problem.