DrugFreeAZKids.org understands the importance of communicating with your children. We want to share the necessary tools and information with you for starting these important conversations. Talking with your child about the dangers of drugs can reduce the chance of them using by up to 50 percent. This is why we are bringing you a series of regular blog posts, each focusing on a specific drug. It will cover the drug’s common names, effects and the important details parents should know.
Today’s post in our 411 Drug Series examines Flakka.
What is it and what does it look like?
Flakka is a crystal-like drug that contains a synthetic stimulant. The crystalline rock form can be swallowed, snorted, injected or used in an e-cigarette. It’s considered a designer drug, like Molly or ecstasy.
What are the short and long-term effects?
· Body temperature rapidly rises to as high as 105-106 degrees Fahrenheit
· Kidney damage and failure
· Severe anxiety, paranoia and delusions
· Surge of violence
· Increased strength
· Loss of awareness of reality and surroundings
What every parent should know:
· This new designer drug has been reportedly used in Florida, Texas and Ohio in the past couple of years, but there is recent concern it could make its way to Arizona.
· Flakka can be combined or cut with other drugs like heroin and cocaine, or even sprinkled with cannabis.
DrugFreeAZKids.org’s mission is to provide parents with the information they need to educate their kids about dangerous substances. In addition to this blog series, we offer other valuable tools, such as webinars and evidence-based workshops to help parents raise healthy, drug-free children.
To learn more about how to prevent drug and alcohol use by teens, visit DrugFreeAZKids.org.
