Designer Drug Addiction

Designer drugs —also known as synthetic drugs— are psychostimulant substances made in clandestine laboratories. They belong to different pharmacological groups, although the most widespread derive from amphetamines: ecstasy and crystal (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine or MDMA), Eve (MDEA) and the so-called “love pills” (MDA).

Their exact composition is hard to determine, since the same substance can come in widely varying forms, weights and concentrations. They usually appear as coloured tablets with eye-catching logos —known as “pills”, “pastis” or “pirulas”. They are relatively cheap and are usually taken at weekends, in nightlife settings and in groups.

People who take them are looking to make social relationships and communication easier, as well as to reduce the feeling of tiredness. Their amphetamine-like effects include increased energy and talkativeness, reduced appetite and sleep, blurred vision, increased heart rate and blood pressure, as well as nausea and dry mouth; they can also cause confusion, anxiety and aggression. In terms of perception they produce sensory hypersensitivity and alterations in colour, texture or the perception of time, as well as impaired concentration and coordination.

Their use is often combined with cannabis, tobacco or alcohol; interaction with alcohol can trigger risky situations involving dehydration, vomiting, tachycardia, dizziness, nervousness and even paranoia. Continued use can lead to tolerance (a reduced effect with repeated use) or sensitisation (an increased response), which raises the likelihood of adverse effects.

The risks are numerous and varied, both because the real composition is unknown and because of possible complications. They include neuropsychiatric effects (anxiety disorders, depression and psychosis), hyperthermia with hypotension and circulatory collapse, arrhythmias, heart attacks or brain haemorrhages, and liver toxicity. It is therefore essential to challenge the belief, widespread among those who use them, that these are harmless substances.

What do we offer?

First orientation and information interview. We compile a full clinical history to understand the pattern of use, personal and family background, social and family context and any organic conditions. This initial assessment determines whether prior detoxification is needed before the psychotherapeutic plan and whether addiction treatment will be outpatient or residential.

If treatment is residential: referral to one of our two therapeutic centres, Riera Major or Can Coll.

If treatment is outpatient:

• Individual psychotherapy: orientation and treatment sessions with a psychologist specialising in drug dependence.

• Psychiatric care: assessment and, where appropriate, psychotropic medication to reduce craving (desire to use) and the loss of control after use begins (priming).

• Urine test monitoring.

• Family therapy.

• Group psychotherapy.