Published On:Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Nothing to 'Smile' About: New Designer Drug Linked to Numerous Deaths
One of the newest forms of synthetic
marijuana, 2C-I or “Smiles” has been linked to several deaths. The
hallucinogen’s use is made possible by distribution of the experimental drug before
it is declared illegal. Much like K-2, research is not well distributed and the
intense side effects are not well known among teenagers.
2C-I is closely related to other 2C drugs
that are known for their psychedelic effects. 2C-I is in the process of being
made illegal, and possession, manufacturing, buying, and selling the controlled
substance will have legal consequences.
Unlike K-2, “Smiles” is usually sold as a
powder or tablet. Usually, the powder will be mixed with food and then eaten to
induce hallucinations and relaxation. The drug has been also known to affect
breathing, which was the case in one related death of a 17-year-old boy who had
mixed the drug with some chocolate given to him by friends.
Other deaths involve stroke or issues with
the heart that arise from the drug use. “Smiles” is closely related to
Amphetamines, which affect the cardiovascular system, including the heart. This
can cause heart arrhythmia's, which can be fatal. Other side effects include
vomiting and nausea. As with many hallucinogens, “Smiles” users are also
subject to “bad trips” where the vision and auditory hallucinations become
terrifying and create panic. Unlike many illegal hallucinogenic drugs found on
the market, such as LSD, immediate harm can be seen throughout the body making
the drug very dangerous.
2C drugs cause the hallucinations by
altering the brain’s serotonin system, which is also why some experience a
relaxing sensation before or after the more intense side effects occur. The
stimulants work in a similar way as meth, which also affect the brain’s
function. This can lead to strokes and other issues with permanent brain
function as a result of using the drug. These types of affects are not limited
to prolonged use and could occur the first time the drug is introduced into the
system.
The DEA is still doing testing on the drug
use and until that is complete; most users will have little or no knowledge of
what they are purchasing. There is a lack of statistics on the drug use, so it
is unknown how widespread “Smiles” is and how it is being obtained. While it is
commonly believed that all drugs have similar effects, people need to be aware
that untested chemicals may have unwanted adverse effects they were not
expecting.
About Author
About Author
Hayley is a drug counselor, author and
blogger residing in Florida. If you or someone you know is suffering from
substance addiction, visit www.delrayrecoverycenter.com.
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