New York NY Addiction Treatment
New York NY addiction treatment centers have seen an influx of patients using flakka, a synthetic compound that is used for its psychoactive effects. The name comes from Spanish, "la flacca," meaning a thin, beautiful woman. It is a fast-acting stimulant drug that causes extreme behavioral reactions and can be deadly to the user. The new compound has come onto the drug scene very recently. In 2010, no cases of use were reported, but by 2012, there were 85 reported cases. This figure jumped to 670 cases in 2014. Flakka use can be addictive and may require treatment at an addiction facility.
If you have been using flakka, get help now. Call New York NY drug treatment centers today. Fore more information about treatment centers and options, call (877) 804-1531.
What Is Flakka?
Flakka is a new synthetic drug that is used for its stimulant effects. In the brain, it causes dopamine and norepinephrine levels to surge. It is usually found in the form of coarse crystals that are off-white in color and look similar to aquarium gravel. It is made from alpha-PVP, a cousin of the active ingredient in "bath salts" called MDPV. Unlike bath salts, it has not yet be made illegal. Like many synthetic compounds, it is sold in gas stations, head shops and over the Internet. Street names include "gravel."
Flakka Dangers
Individuals who use flakka lose their sense of reality. The exact dosage is difficult to control, and users may find themselves in difficulty before they realize it. They may hallucinate, become paranoid, show aggression and otherwise act out in an uncontrollable manner. This behavior can put them at risk for accidents or from reactions from police or members of the community. The new stories of people running naked through neighborhoods, acting insane are often displaying flakka reactions. Users can also experience elevated body temperature, up to 108 degrees Fahrenheit, which puts them at risk of internal bleeding and death.
Getting Help For Addiction
If you know someone who uses flakka and has become addicted to the substance, talk to them about going for help at a New York NY drug detox. The use of intervention techniques may be the best way to persuade the individual to enter a treatment program, as well as a recovery program like Narcotics Anonymous (www.nycna.org). Avoid using a blaming tone, but offer to help them find a suitable facility where they can detox safely and work on ways to change their behavior.