What are Party Drugs?
Party (or club) drug refers to a variety of drugs found at dance clubs and parties. It is very difficult to predict the strength of these substances, how they will affect and individual and if there is any poisonous content because of the variety of chemicals in them. Some more commonly known party drugs include Ecstasy, LSD and other Hallucinogens. Additionally, drugs referred to as “date-rape drugs” have been used at parties and clubs and given to someone without their knowledge often with the intent to have nonconsensual sexual activities with that individual. Common names for these drugs are Rohypnol (Roofies), GHB, and Ketamine (Special K).
Prevalence:
- Ecstasy:
- Most used by people 18-25
- 10.5% of this age group has tried ecstasy
- According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, in 2020 an estimated 3,211 emergency room visits occurred involving ecstasy.
- Hallucinogens:
- 16.40% of people 18-25 have used a hallucinogen
- Date Rape Drugs:
- 44% of men and 56% of women had reported having their drinks spiked at least once
- 26% of drinks spiked were spiked with a sedative or date rape drug
- 52% of those who reported were in college when their drink/food was spiked for the first time
Effects:
Ecstasy:
- Energy and confidence (low doses)
- Increased blood pressure, heart rate, sweating, blurred vision, vomiting
- Overheating and dehydration
- Hallucinations, paranoia, panic, anxiety, and depression
- Confusion, irritability, sleep problems
- Continued use: Confusion, irritability, depression, weight loss
Hallucinogens:
- Distortion of reality, time, color, sound, etc.
- Auditory, visual, or physical hallucinations
- Euphoria or excitement
- Anxiety, paranoia, confusion
- Panic or depression
- Numbness, weak muscles, or nausea
- Death
Drugs Commonly Used to Drink Spike:
- Impaired judgment
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Effects can be felt within 15-30 minutes
- Often no taste, smell or color so hard to detect
- Hallucination
- Numbness, weak muscles, blurred vision
- Temporary amnesia, confusion, disassociation
- Nausea, vomiting, drowsiness
- Passing out, seizures, irregular breathing, coma, or death
Myths and Party Drugs
They are synthetic and manufactured. Since there is no regulation they are often laced with other drugs and are made differently.
It can make you hyper, but this has many effects such as muscle cramping, increased blood pressure, or heart rate. Molly can also cause extreme paranoia, depression, or anxiety.
Almost 90% of people ages 18-25 have never used ecstasy
83% of 18-25 year old have never tried a hallucinogen
Many of these drugs alternate someone's perception of reality, causing them to do things they would not usually do. People may become aggressive and harm someone, users have jumped out of buildings, or may try and drive and have caused accidents.
Even the drugs that are made from plants, they can easily be laced before they are purchased. Synthetic drugs are manufactured, and therefore you never know what is actually in it. Any unregulated substance has an increased likelihood of being mixed with other substances or chemicals.
False, although common, alcohol remains the #1 substance used to spike drinks.
Many can be detected in urine up to 72 hours after taking it. If you suspect that you or a friend have been drugged, seek medical assistance and a test as soon as possible.
Many people use these drugs recreational, which have many health effects and can lead to addiction, long-term health problems, and worsening cognitive function.
What does it mean to be Safe, Smart, and Responsible?
- If you are going to use party drugs, make sure you:
- Take a limited amount
- Are in a safe environment
- Do not mix with medications or other substances
- Are aound someone who is sober who can help in an emergency
- If you are around someone who is using party drugs:
- Make sure they are drinking water, especially if they are sweating or moving a lot
- Be willing to call 911 in case of medical, mental, or emotional concerns
- Make sure that person stays in a safe environment
- Ensure other substances are not accessible to the user