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Flakka is a common name for the street drug alpha-Pyrrolidinopentiophenone (alpha-PVP; a-PVP). This drug is part of the family of drugs called synthetic cathinones or, simply, bath salts. Flakka is receiving a lot of attention for the erratic and aggressive behavior of its users, so much so that it has even been nicknamed the “zombie drug.” In addition to the drug posing risks to others during aggressive episodes, it is also dangerous to the user; long-term use of alpha-PVP is related to kidney damage and even death by suicide or heart attack. Flakka addiction treatment is the best way to recover from addiction.
Flakka use exploded onto the scene in 2014, particularly in the state of Florida. Between June 1, 2015 and December 27, 2015, over 1,800 hospital admissions were linked to a-PVP in South Florida. Hospital admissions related to flakka rose to as high as 11.6 per day in July and then dropped to a daily rate of two people receiving emergency treatment for flakka by the year’s end. While formulas may now be different than the original drug, flakka is still being sold in Southern Florida under the same name.
Flakka has stimulant effects like other synthetic cathinones. Its powerful high is associated with physical and psychological effects, including a boost in energy and alertness as well as a better mood, which explains why it may be abused—along with its cheap price tag.
Yet the drug can also trigger anxiety, loss of appetite, and paranoia. Extreme effects can even include multi-organ failures and the shutdown of vital bodily functions due to the body temperature spikes associated with its consumption. Suicidal ideation, seizures, and muscle tremors can also occur. Of course, exactly how the user feels the effects varies from person to person, depending on factors such as dosage and method of consumption.
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As per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, synthetic cathinones—which include flakka—can be addictive, and human users have reported strong, uncontrollable cravings for it. Typically it is consumed by swallowing, snorting, smoking, or injection.
Overdose is always a risk with flakka though, no matter the form taken. This is because it comes in a package that does not have a regulated amount of the active ingredient. Thus, the amount can change from one package to the next, and a slight change in dose can take the user from a major high to death. Overdosing on flakka is particularly easy when in vaporized form as vaporizing sends the drug into the bloodstream quickly.
As alpha-PHP is a dopamine reuptake blocker, it can lead to hypertension and even severe hyperthermia that warrants medical emergency treatment, as per Emergency Medicine News. In this case, the body’s core temperature must be lowered “aggressively with whatever means are available,” such as with ice packs, fans, or an ice water bath. A body temperature of 102 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal.
The medical professional must be careful not to induce hypothermia in this treatment for flakka overdose and watch for any opposing effects, such as renal failure, all while simultaneously dealing with the specific symptoms that the person has. Thus, managing symptoms as well as reducing stimulation and overheating is a big focus of emergency treatment for flakka.
After the emergency treatment for flakka, the best next step for long-term sobriety is to enter a drug rehabilitation center to avoid returning to drug misuse. Although flakka addiction is relatively new, treatment for flakka overdose is available at a comprehensive rehabilitation center and the care there can help an addict to stay clean.
The clinical team at a quality addiction recovery facility puts together a custom treatment program that targets the individual’s needs and analyzes underlying issues and any co-occurring illnesses to increase program success. The recovering addict practices tools to cope with future triggers upon program completion and learns the risks inherent to alpha-PVP within therapy sessions. This is true for inpatient or outpatient programs. Therapy can be individual, with a group, or a combination of the two, with sessions including discussions of personal setbacks and accomplishments as well as worries.
The rehab center environment is supportive and respectful. After-care services follow the end of the program, and this includes ensuring that the recovering addict has a personal support system of family and friends who care for the individual. The overall goal is to achieve long-term recovery, which means having a healthier, happier life.
Regain hope for you or a loved one who is struggling with flakka. The first step is to contact us now.
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