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Flakka Drug Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, & Treatment

What is Flakka Drug?

Flakka (Alpha-PVP, also known as “Gravel”) is a highly addictive and dangerous drug, typically white or pink, and is found in crystal form. The drug may be eaten, snorted, injected, or vaporized in e-cigarettes.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an increasing number of individuals in the U.S. are being admitted to emergency wards due to the consequences of their Flakka use. Unfortunately, Almost 1% of US young adults reported using Flakka. [1]

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What is Flakka Made of?

Alpha-PVP (Flakka) is chemically related to other synthetic cathinones called “bath salts.” The molecular structure of Flakka is derived from the pyrrolidinophenone (designer drugs) class, making it a central nervous system stimulant.

Usually, a laboratory setup combines several compounds to synthesize Flakka. Reagents, solvents, and precursor compounds are a few examples of these substances. The precise composition may alter since the substance may be made in covert labs using various formulations.

The primary mechanism of action for Flakka’s pharmacological effects is its capacity to stimulate the release and block the absorption of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain.

Flakka Drug Effects Pictures

Severe psychosis caused by Flakka drug effects has been reported in states where the use of the drug is widespread.
Severe psychosis caused by Flakka drug effects has been reported in states where the use of the drug is widespread.
Flakka drug is a dangerous synthetic drug that can cause physical and psychological harm. It can mimic the effects of cocaine and meth, which can cause twitching, delusions, and even seizures.
Flakka drug is a dangerous synthetic drug that can cause physical and psychological harm. It can mimic the effects of cocaine and meth, which can cause twitching, delusions, and even seizures.
Severe psychosis caused by Flakka drug effects has been reported in states where the use of the drug is widespread.
Severe psychosis caused by Flakka drug effects has been reported in states where the use of the drug is widespread.

How Does Flakka Affect Your Brain?

Usually, people will be more anxious and aggressive after using synthetic cathinones, including Flakka drugs, and they will exhibit aggressive behavior at high doses. In some cases, these substances have caused death.

Flakka Effects and Addiction Signs

  • Intense Euphoria.
  • Heightened Alertness.
  • Extreme Agitation.
  • Excited Delirium.
  • Hallucinations.
  • Paranoia.
  • Psychotic Behavior.
  • Increased Heart Rate.
  • Elevated Body Temperature.
  • Sweating Profusely.
  • Bruxism (Teeth Grinding).
  • Tremors or Seizures.
  • Increased Energy.
  • Insomnia.
  • Lack of Appetite.
  • Increased Sociability.
  • Increased Libido.
  • Impaired Judgment.
  • Impulsive Behavior.
  • Violent Outbursts.
  • Severe Anxiety.
  • Suicidal Thoughts.
  • Memory Impairment.
  • Cognitive Dysfunction.
  • Cravings for Continued Use.

What it’s Called “Flakka Zombie Drug”?

New synthetic drug structures have new properties and thus create unique behavioral characteristics during intoxication.

For instance, the term “zombie Flakka” is a colloquial and sensationalized expression used in the media to describe the extreme and often bizarre behavior exhibited by some individuals under the influence of the drug. This label suggests that the drug can induce behaviors that appear zombie-like, including severe agitation, paranoia, hallucinations, and erratic movements.

Is Flakka Bath Salts?

Flakka and bath salts are related substances, but they are different. Flakka, also known as Alpha-PVP, is a specific synthetic cathinone, which is a type of amphetamine. On the other hand, “bath salts” is a broad term that refers to a group of synthetic drugs that often contain cathinones.

What are Bath Salts?

Bath salts are also known as “plant food,” “phone screen cleaner,” or “jewelry cleaner.” These names do not reflect the product properties; they are just a cover for the drug council or the local police.

Flakka drug can induce behaviors that appear zombie-like, including severe agitation, paranoia, hallucinations, and erratic movements.
Flakka drug can induce behaviors that appear zombie-like, including severe agitation, paranoia, hallucinations, and erratic movements.

Learn More:

Get resources for the Flakka drug addiction counseling that works. Discover professional help from We Level Up Texas Flakka drug addiction rehab and mental health therapists. Start getting support with a free call to our addiction hotline.

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Flakka Withdrawal Symptoms

The withdrawal symptoms result from the body and brain adjusting to the absence of Flakka, which has been influencing neurotransmitter activity and affecting the central nervous system. The symptoms include:

  • Intense Cravings.
  • Fatigue.
  • Depression.
  • Anxiety.
  • Agitation.
  • Irritability.
  • Difficulty Concentrating.
  • Insomnia.
  • Increased Appetite.
  • Unpleasant Dreams.
  • Tremors.
  • Muscle Aches.
  • Sweating.
  • Heart Palpitations.
  • Paranoia.
  • Hallucinations.
  • Delusions.
  • Impaired Memory.
  • Impaired Cognitive Function.
Flakka side effects and withdrawals are challenging to overcome on your own. Fortunately, relapse during the early phases of Flakka drug addiction treatment and rehabilitation is less likely in the controlled setting because it limits external distractions.
Flakka side effects and withdrawals are challenging to overcome on your own. Fortunately, relapse during the early phases of Flakka drug addiction treatment and rehabilitation is less likely in the controlled setting because it limits external distractions.

Inpatient Flakka Drug Rehab

One of the finest strategies to overcome the addiction to Flakka drugs is through inpatient treatment. We Level Up Texas inpatient treatment offers a setting free from the temptation to consume Flakka drugs for those attempting to sober up.

Rehabs typically last 30 to 90 days. However, they can last longer if necessary for the client.

A recovered user can learn how to live a healthy life without using Flakka drugs by enrolling in an inpatient program.

Inpatient Flakka drug rehab programs may include:

  • Detoxification services.
  • Individual counseling.
  • Group therapy sessions.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
  • 12-step or alternative recovery programs.
  • Medical supervision and support.
  • Dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health issues.
  • Family therapy.
  • Aftercare planning.
  • Holistic and evidence-based therapies such as yoga or meditation.

Relapse during the early phases of rehabilitation is less likely in the controlled setting because it limits external stimuli and distractions. The assurance of a secure and efficient detoxification process is reinforced by the continuous presence of medical monitoring, available round the clock.

This steadfast management not only guarantees the physical well-being of individuals undergoing Flakka drug detox but also provides a rapid response mechanism for any emerging difficulties or withdrawal symptoms. The 24/7 medical supervision in inpatient Flakka drug rehab programs is integral in managing the unpredictable nature of withdrawal, as it allows for the following:

  • Timely adjustments to the treatment plan.
  • Medication administration for withdrawal or mental health issue symptoms.
  • Immediate intervention in the face of any unforeseen complications.

This unwavering medical presence serves as a critical pillar in the foundation of a comprehensive and responsive detoxification experience, fostering a safer and more controlled environment for individuals navigating the initial stages of recovery from Flakka addiction.

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Flakka Detox

Medical detox is an essential first step in developing a comprehensive and personalized recovery plan from Flakka addiction. Acknowledging your addiction’s warning signs and acknowledging you need treatment are crucial. You must get professional help as well. To determine the best course of action, this often involves having a trained addiction specialist assess you for substance use disorder.

Programs for inpatient recovery offer a medically supervised, controlled atmosphere that is available around the clock, facilitating the procedure of detoxification and treating both the physical and mental elements of addiction. Comprehending the underlying reasons for dependence and developing coping skills are crucial outcomes of both individual and group therapy. When it comes to treating the thinking patterns and behaviors connected to Flakka drug use, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly successful.

Follow-up care is crucial once a formal treatment program is completed. Participating in support groups, creating a relapse prevention technique, and immersing in therapy may all be part of this. Ongoing healing requires adopting a comprehensive well-being perspective that includes good lifestyle choices.

It takes dedication, tenacity, and a solid support network to overcome addiction to Flakka drugs, which is ultimately a lifelong process.

Aftercare Program for Flakka Drug Addiction Treatment

One effective technique for treating addiction in patients is cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT. Patients who receive cognitive behavioral therapy are trained to identify negative self-perceptions, which can act as relapse triggers, as well as circumstances that may entice them to use the Flakka drug once more. Upon acknowledging this, individuals can create coping mechanisms to eliminate thoughts of relapse and steer clear of alluring circumstances. This type of treatment gives clients a sense of agency and accountability, which is crucial for maintaining motivation and permanently removing the Flakka drug from their lives.

To help your loved one get Flakka drug addiction treatment, contact We Level Up Texas Rehab Center to get started!
To help your loved one get Flakka drug addiction treatment, contact We Level Up Texas Rehab Center to get started!
Find Flakka drug addiction treatment and therapies that work. Contact We Level Up Texas addiction rehab center for options and resources.
Find Flakka drug addiction treatment and therapies that work. Contact We Level Up Texas addiction rehab center for options and resources.

We Level Up Texas Rehab Center Treatment for Flakka Addiction

Detoxification helps remove Flakka from the body, managing withdrawal symptoms and ensuring physical stabilization. However, it’s crucial to follow up with comprehensive addiction therapy.

As you detox from Flakka, maintain your healthy diet and exercise practices. Your body and mind need this healthy lifestyle to overcome detox challenges. To help with your treatment and recovery, our rehab amenities provide a range of activities, rejuvenating meals, and peaceful surroundings. Recreational workouts may also be a helpful diversion from detox symptoms.

Our modern detox facility and round-the-clock nursing care ensure a safe and comfortable environment for rest and recovery. During detox, you can participate in on-site We Level Up Texas facility programs, such as lectures, workshops, and group therapy. You can learn vital information from these sessions about your substance use problem and long-term healing strategies.

If you’re seeking assistance with your rehab journey, reach out to a We Level Up TX treatment professional today.

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Sources
  1. Patocka J, Zhao B, Wu W, Klimova B, Valis M, Nepovimova E, Kuca K. Flakka: New Dangerous Synthetic Cathinone on the Drug Scene. Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Oct 31;21(21):8185. Doi: 10.3390/ijms21218185. PMID: 33142953; PMCID: PMC7663692.
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  3. Debnam KJ, Saha S, Bradshaw CP. Synthetic and Other Drug Use among High School Students: The Role of Perceived Prevalence, Access, and Harms. Substance Use Misuse. 2018 Oct 15;53(12):2069-2076. Doi 10.1080/10826084.2018.1455699. Epub 2018 Apr 6. PMID: 29624111; PMCID: PMC6136142.
  4. Flakka (alpha-PVP) – Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
  5. Drug Alert: Flakka (alpha-PVP) – https://www.justthinktwice.gov/drug-alert-flakka-alpha-pvp
  6. About Synthetic Drugs – DEA Diversion Control Division (.gov)
  7. The Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
  8. Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorders – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
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  10. Mental Health and Substance Use Co-Occurring Disorders – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)