BEWARE of flakka – the ‘zombie drug’

A highly dangerous yet relatively cheap drug has reportedly reared its ugly head in South Africa.

Flakka is a chemical compound originally synthesised in the 1960s.

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It is known as next generation ‘bath salts’, a group of related synthetic drugs that was banned in 2012.

Resembling aquarium gravel, it is a synthetic psychoactive drug that is structurally related to cathinone.

Flakka comes as a white or pink crystal that you can snort, eat, inject or even vape.

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And its alarming side-effects – including extreme agitation, jerking muscle movements, delirious thoughts and paranoia – have led to it being dubbed the ‘zombie drug’.

“Just like bath salts, the substance is packaged inconspicuously in plastic bags or vials which are labelled not for human consumption,” said Karen Griessel, a social worker at the Wedge Gardens substance abuse treatment centre.

“You can buy it online or off the street.”

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She said the reason flakka has become popular is that it simulates the effects of cocaine and methamphetamine without the high financial cost, and has been reported to be 10 times more powerful than cocaine.

“Initially it gives the user a euphoric high, but continued use leads to delirium. Hallucinations, paranoia and even increased strength is experienced. Panic attacks, depression, violence, psychosis, suicide and death are associated with overdose,” said Griessel.

It increases body temperature and blood pressure which medically can cause kidney damage, heart attack, stroke, aneurysm and even heart failure.

“The drug is bought in bulk online, normally from China, and initially surfaced in South Florida,” Griessel said.

“We received reports that there was an incident of flakka use and reports of bizarre behaviour at a South African event.

“The drug appears to have alarming side-effects, and often police and paramedics are needed to subdue or treat users. There have been bizarre incidents in America and other countries.”

She said that, with the possibility of the drug making a widespread appearance in South Africa, people need to inform themselves of the symptoms.

For more information, contact Wedge Gardens on 011 430 0320.

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