Hey, parents there’s a new drug on the street that you need to know about. It’s called “flakka” or “gravel” and it’s making its way across the United States. It has recently been covered in Forbes and on Yahoo. This stuff is made up of a chemical compound called alpha-PVP. It’s a stimulant that creates feelings of euphoria, alertness as well as some starting, mind altering hallucinations.
Flakka can be snorted, smoked or swallowed and has been linked with serious behavioral problems. The side effects are similar to bath salts – extreme anxiety, paranoia and extremely violent behavior. Since the drug is so new, scientists don’t know exactly how it changes the brain or how addictive it is. What’s worse, the chemical used to make it has not been banned, so it’s currently legal. Needless to say, if flakka is similar to bath salts, it can wreak havoc on the mind and cause significant damage to the body.
If you are a parent, watch for any changes in your Child’s behavior. Talk to them about the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol on their bodies and future. A young person’s brain doesn’t fully develop until they are in their mid 20’s so when drugs like flakka, cocaine, heroin and marijuana are used, they can do significant damage and lead to addiction.
To learn more about Enterhealth’s Residential or Outpatient drug and alchol rehabilitation programs, call 1.800.388.4601 or contact us using this form to talk to your trusted advisor, today!
